Studio Engineer - Exterior

The Exterior Studio Engineer bridges the gap between Automotive Design and Engineering, ensuring that exterior design concepts are transformed into technically feasible, manufacturable, and production-ready solutions while preserving design intent.

This role works closely with Exterior Design, Interior Design, Engineering, Packaging, Safety, Aerodynamics, Manufacturing, and Suppliers to support the development of premium vehicle programs from early concept through production.

In addition to exterior development, the successful candidate should be capable of supporting Interior Studio Engineering activities when required, contributing to a flexible and collaborative studio engineering organization.

What you will do:

1. Exterior Design Development & Feasibility

• Work closely with Exterior Design teams to translate sketches, digital models, and design proposals into feasible engineering solutions.
• Provide early engineering input for:
• Bumpers
• Grilles
• Exterior trims and moldings
• Closures and appliqués
• Exterior decorative components
• Lighting integration areas
• Conduct feasibility studies considering:
• Vehicle package constraints
• Manufacturing requirements
• Assembly concepts
• Cost targets
• Regulatory requirements
• Serviceability requirements
• Propose alternative technical solutions to protect and maintain design intent.

2. Exterior Surface & Integration Development

• Support development and integration of exterior surfaces and components.
• Evaluate:
• Surface feasibility
• Part split strategies
• Gap & flush targets
• Interface conditions
• Assembly clearances
• Ensure robust integration between styling surfaces and engineering systems.
• Support clay model reviews, digital model evaluations, and prototype development activities.

3. Technical Collaboration

• Act as the interface between Design Studio and Engineering teams.
• Collaborate closely with: Body Exterior Engineering, Lighting Engineering, Safety & Regulations, Aerodynamics, Manufacturing & Tooling, Suppliers.
• Support design reviews with structured technical assessments and risk evaluations.
• Facilitate problem-solving workshops to resolve conflicts between styling intent and engineering constraints.

4. CAD & Surface Development

• Work extensively with CATIA to: Analyze design feasibility, Verify package and clearance conditions, Validate interfaces and assembly concepts, Support design freeze activities.
• Perform surface quality evaluations including: G0 continuity, G1 continuity, G2 continuity
• Ensure digital data quality for downstream engineering and supplier activities.

5. Interior Packaging & Ergonomics

• Support Interior Studio Engineering activities when required.
• Contribute to feasibility reviews for: Instrument panels, Center consoles, Door trims, Decorative components, Interior lighting concepts.
• Participate in cross-functional studio projects requiring both exterior and interior integration expertise.
• Help maintain consistency between vehicle exterior and interior design execution.

6. Innovation & Compliance

• Monitor industry trends and competitor vehicles related to: Exterior design execution, Surface development, Materials and finishes, Manufacturing technologies, Lighting integration.
• Conduct benchmarking studies and provide recommendations for future vehicle programs.
• Identify opportunities to improve studio engineering.

What you will bring:

1. Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Automotive Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in Automotive Studio Engineering.
• Proven experience in exterior and also interior feasibility development.

2. Technical Skills

• Strong proficiency in CATIA.
• Good understanding of: Automotive exterior systems, Vehicle packaging, Surface development, Manufacturing processes, Assembly concepts.
• Knowledge of: Injection molding, Coating and painting processes, Decorative trim technologies.
• Familiarity with Alias and/or ICEM Surf is a strong plus.
• Understanding of automotive safety and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to support both exterior and interior feasibility activities.

3. Soft Skills

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to bridge creative design and technical engineering disciplines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple programs in a fast-paced studio environment.
• High attention to detail and passion for premium interior design execution.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required (Chinese is a plus).
• Willingness to travel (especially to China) and accommodate overtime when required.

What we offer:

• Competitive Salary: Reflecting your skills and experience.
• Hybrid Working: Flexibility to work both remotely and in the office.
• Annual Leave: 30 days of paid annual leave.
• Health & Wellness: Access to the Wellhub Pass for your well-being.
• Employee Development: Learning opportunities and training programs to support your career growth.
• Transport Support: Deutschland ticket or fuel card.
• Meal Allowance: For lunch at the canteen.
• Gifts: Celebratory gifts for work anniversaries and Chinese New Year.
• Company Events: Regular team-building and social activities.
• Inclusive Culture: A diverse, supportive environment where every voice is valued.