We are seeking a highly motivated Junior Design Release Engineer (DRE) to join our Powertrain Systems team in Mexico City. In this role, you will support the lifecycle management, packaging, and structural release of critical engine and drivetrain components for our upcoming mid-engine vehicle platform. Because mid-engine layouts require exceptionally tight packaging and strict thermal/NVH management, you will play a hands-on role in balancing structural rigor with cross-functional project execution.
This is an entry-level DRE position. We are looking for candidates with strong first-principles engineering knowledge, a passion for automotive problem-solving, and the organizational skills to manage component timelines from initial concept through production launch.
Key Responsibilities
Design & Packaging: Collaborate closely with the CAD design team to optimize powertrain packaging, engine mounts, and structural clearances within a tight mid-engine bay using CAD (SolidWorks, CATIA V5, or Siemens NX).
Engineering Release & PLM: Assist in owning and maintaining the component Bill of Materials (BOM). Initiate and track Engineering Change Notices (ECNs/ECOs) through the corporate Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system (e.g., Teamcenter or Enovia).
Structural & NVH Optimization: Work with CAE engineers to review finite element analysis (FEA) for fatigue, durability, and NVH characteristics on brackets, mounts, and exhaust routing.
Validation & Quality: Support the execution of Design Verification Plan and Reports (DVP&R). Utilize tools like Design Failure Mode & Effects Analysis (DFMEA) to mitigate risks prior to physical prototyping.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Coordinate with Manufacturing, Styling, Purchasing, and external Tier-1 suppliers to ensure components meet performance, cost, and weight targets while staying on schedule.
Project Tracking: Maintain strict timeline adherence using Gantt-based tracking or Agile workflows to meet vehicle development milestones.
Preferred Qualifications
Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
Experience: 0 to 3 years of engineering experience. Note: Documented leadership or technical roles in collegiate automotive design competitions (e.g., Baja SAE, Formula SAE, Formula Student) is strongly considered as equivalent experience.
- Direct experience analyzing or packaging drivetrain/powertrain components, engine mounts, or exhaust systems.
-
Familiarity with automotive quality and launch frameworks (APQP, PPAP, 8D Root Cause Analysis).
-
Previous internship or co-op experience working with manufacturing processes (casting, stamping, machining).
-
Basic understanding of PLM ecosystems (Teamcenter, Windchill, Enovia).
Technical Skills
- Solid understanding of 3D CAD modeling and digital pre-assembly workflows.
-
Familiarity with CAE/FEA principles for structural or NVH optimization.
-
Basic knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and tolerance stack-ups.
-
Languages: Professional Working Proficiency (B2/C1 equivalent) in English, and Native/Fluent Spanish for daily collaboration with global and local teams.
Soft Skills:
- Proactive problem solver, quick learner, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment.
