Technical Specialist

LER TechForce; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits

401K with match

Disability, life insurance

Employee discounts

Professional development

Industry-leading projects

Job summary

LER TechForce is seeking a Technical Specialist - Exteriors to lead the design, development, and validation of exterior vehicle components in Auburn Hills, MI. The role requires extensive automotive exterior experience and strong collaboration with design, manufacturing and supply chain teams, on-site five days a week.

You will mentor engineers, manage multiple projects from concept to production, and drive innovation in materials and manufacturing processes while ensuring compliance with safety

Qualifications

• 12–15 years of experience in automotive exterior design and engineering.
• 3–5 years in a Technical Specialist role.
• Strong project management and cross-functional leadership abilities.
• Solid understanding of exterior systems, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge of FMVSS/ECE crash safety requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, validation, and optimization of exterior components.
• Ensure exterior systems meet performance, aesthetic, quality, and manufacturing standards.
• Mentor and evaluate performance of team members.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and supply chain for seamless integration.
• Drive innovation in materials, manufacturing processes, and aerodynamics.
• Manage multiple exterior development projects from concept to production.

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Automotive engineering

Project management

Communication

Problem-solving

Cross-functional teams

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree in Automotive Engineering

Tools

Catia V5/V6

CAD tools

3DX

Simulation software

GD&T knowledge

Job description

Are you looking to work for a company that provides an innovative work environment, and your voice is heard? We have a position for a Technical Specialist - Exteriors to work onsite at our client in Auburn Hills, MI (this is a direct hire position).

NO VISA SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

Who we are:

LER TechForce is an industry leader in embedded controls, software, functional safety, and engineering talent. For over 20 years LER has been working with customers across North America. Follow us at: LER TechForce on LinkedIn.

What you will be doing:

• Lead the design, development, validation, and optimization of exterior components.
• Play a key role in ensuring exterior systems meet performance, aesthetic, quality, and manufacturing requirements while aligning with the company's timing requirements.
• Serve as the Technical Specialist responsible for exterior design and development, including fascias, lighting systems, trim, mirrors, and other exterior components.
• Provide mentorship, guidance, and performance evaluation to ensure team development and growth.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Manage multiple exterior development projects from concept to production.
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and supply chain, to ensure seamless integration of exterior components.
• Oversee the design and engineering of exterior systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and performance targets.
• Drive innovation in materials, manufacturing processes, and aerodynamics to enhance vehicle aesthetics and functionality.
• Stay up to date with emerging technologies and trends in the automotive industry.
• Develop and implement strategies for continuous improvement in exterior design and development processes.
• Collaborate with senior management to align exterior engineering goals with broader organizational objectives.
• Evaluate and manage risks associated with exterior component design and manufacturing.
• Work closely with suppliers to source high-quality materials and components for exterior systems.
• Manage relationships with external partners, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to specifications.

What you'll need to be successful:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 12-15 years of experience in automotive exterior design and engineering, with at least 3-5 years in a Technical Specialist role.
• Strong understanding of exterior systems, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Proven track record in managing complex engineering projects and cross-functional teams.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of Catia V5/V6, CAD tools, 3DX, simulation software, and design methodologies.
• Familiarity with industry standards such as FMVSS, ECE regulations, and crash safety requirements.
• On-site 5 days per week in a combination of office, engineering, and manufacturing environment; may require interaction with production facilities and customers.
• 15% Asia travel requirement (approximately 2-4 weeks per year).

Preferred:

• Experience with OEM or Tier 1 in designing for electric, ICE, and autonomous vehicles.
• Exposure to sustainable materials and processes for exterior components.
• Ability to drive innovation while balancing cost, quality, and performance constraints.
• Knowledge of GD&T and tolerance analysis.

What you'll get:

• Full benefits: medical, dental, vision, HSA and FSA
• 401K with a match and immediate vesting
• Short-term and Long-term disability, life insurance and other optional benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Discounts
• Ongoing professional development opportunities including Technical Training and Leadership Development
• The opportunity to work on industry leading projects