Design Release Engineer - Powercell components

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionThe Design Release Engineer for Internal combustion Cranktrain components is responsible for the design, development, and technical leadership in the creation, validation, and release of these components for company vehicles. This includes pistons, piston rings, piston pins, connecting rods and piston cooling jets. The responsibilities include design and release of system components and/or specifying hardware requirements needed to meet program objectives.

The role involves driving the design through all phases of the product lifecycle, including design concept, sourcing support, engineering validation, and production release through PPAP (Production Part Approval Process). The role will include interaction and or leading activities with multiple teams including manufacturing, quality, design, validation testing, supplier direction and purchasing groups.

Responsibilities include but no limited to:
Design & Development:

• Lead the design of powercell components, ensuring alignment with vehicle and engine sub-system requirements.
  

• Develop and refine concepts for Powercell cranktrain systems based on functional, safety, reliability, and performance requirements.
  

• Support CAD modeling, FEA (Finite Element Analysis), and other design validation methods to ensure structural integrity and compliance with standards.
  

• Collaborate with other engineering teams (engine calibration, engine testing, thermal, packaging, quality, manufacturing) to integrate components into the overall engine system.
  

Release & Program Management:

• Manage design release activities from early concept through production, including the timely completion of applicable milestones such as B-Sample, C-Sample, PX0, X0, X1, X2, and X3.
  

• Ensure all parts meet quality, cost, and timing requirements.
  

• Drive the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) for lubrication systems components, ensuring compliance with all regulatory and customer specifications.
  

Technical Guidance & Problem Solving:

• Provide technical leadership support during the development and production stages to resolve design issues, material selection challenges, manufacturing restrictions, and process-related problems.
  

• Lead DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and other risk assessment activities to ensure design robustness and mitigate potential issues.
  

• Participate in the development of testing strategies for components, including engine dynamometer, vibration, fatigue and thermal testing.
  

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with suppliers to ensure design feasibility, cost competitiveness, and manufacturability of structural components.
  

• Collaborate with validation teams to define and implement validation testing, ensuring structural components meet functional and performance metrics.
  

Documentation & Reporting:

• Develop and maintain engineering documentation, including design specifications, drawings, models, test plans, and validation reports.
  

• Ensure that all technical documentation is up-to-date and aligns with program timelines and PPAP requirements.
  

• Report on project status, timelines, and risk assessments to senior management and stakeholders.

Requirements

Requirements:

• A minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  

• A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience working with engine components and systems design. Experience must be related to crankshafts, pistons, piston rings, connecting rods, lubrication systems, oil consumption.
  

• Understanding of Mechanics of Materials, NVH, Sealing systems, structural analysis, vibration, fastener basics, CAE Analysis, and GD&T.
  

• Experience in selecting materials and manufacturing methods for mechanical components.
  

Requirements:

• Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering with emphasis engine systems engineering or similar.
  

• Working experience in creation and execution of validation plans
  

• Working experience with 3D cad programs, preferably Siemens NX
  

Additional Must haves:

• An interest in designing and development of internal combustion engines
  

• Support testing on site for evaluation with reporting of results to broader team.
  

• Hybrid with >80% onsite
  

• Driving required - Yes.
  

• 10% travel including USA, Mexico, Canada, India, France