The Junior Design Release Engineer (DRE) for Powertrain Brackets supports the design, development, packaging, and production release of structural, functional, and auxiliary mounting brackets within the powertrain environment (including engine, transmission, turbocharger, and electrical accessory brackets). Working under the guidance of senior engineers, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams and global Tier 1 suppliers to manage technical data, execute engineering changes, and track deliverables from concept through production launch.
Key responsibilities
Support the design, packaging, physical routing clearances, and product release of structural powertrain brackets and fastening systems.
Coordinate engineering change management activities, authoring engineering notices and maintaining accurate Bill of Materials (BOM) data.
Conduct 3D CAD digital mock-up (DMU) reviews and packaging studies to ensure clearance compliance within complex engine bay and chassis environments.
Track project deliverables, maintain engineering records, and monitor component milestones to guarantee timely program execution.
Collaborate with component suppliers to review manufacturing tooling status, timing plans, and technical data compliance.
Assist in defining and tracking Design Verification Plans and Reports (DVP&R) for component-level fatigue, stiffness, and vibration validation.
Prepare technical reports, meeting agendas, and presentations for engineering reviews and milestone alignment meetings.
Participate in problem-solving activities and root-cause analyses for issues identified during vehicle prototyping and assembly plant builds.
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related engineering discipline.
Experience: 0–3 years of experience in product engineering, design release, or structural component development within the automotive industry (internships or co-op experience counts).
Technical Basics: Fundamental understanding of mechanics of materials, structural behavior under vibration, and basic manufacturing processes (such as steel stamping, aluminum die casting, and sheet metal fabrication).
Software Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word). Basic exposure to or training in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6 or NX) is highly desirable.
Languages: Professional proficiency in written and spoken English for interaction within global engineering teams.
Core Competencies: Strong analytical skills, excellent organizational habits, attention to detail, and a team-oriented mindset.
Preferred Qualifications
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Internship or professional engineering experience at an automotive OEM or Tier 1 structural component supplier.
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Basic knowledge of NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) principles or bracket resonance frequencies.
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Familiarity with standard automotive quality tools, including DFMEA, APQP, or geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
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Exposure to product lifecycle management (PLM) databases or engineering release environments (e.g., Teamcenter or Windchill).
