Design release Engineer (Door Trims & Console)

Interface with Vehicle Engineering, suppliers, Purchasing, Quality and Assembly Plants.

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• Manage product performance to meet functional, cost, weight, and investment targets.
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• Oversee product release and change management processes.
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• Direct packaging in vehicle environment.
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• Support AQP, PSO, product launch and ongoing maintenance of carryover product.
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• Be responsible for design, design practices, lessons learned, DFMEAs, DVP&R, and oversee release of designated components.
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• Oversee the development and refinement cockpit components such as door trims and center consoles.
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• Lead the end-to-end design and release of door trim and center console assemblies, subcomponents, and functional modules (console body, rails, armrests, lid hinges, appliqués, rubber mats, storage bins, ambient lighting, cupholders, cut & sew applications for bolsters and upper trims, map pockets, mirror sails, window garnish etc.).
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• Own 2D/3D data, BOMs, piece numbers, and engineering documentation within Stellantis systems.
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• Develop and maintain functional specifications and design requirements for console systems including ergonomics, usability, and craftsmanship.
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• Collaborate with studio, packaging, CAE, ergonomics, electrical architecture, HMI, HVAC, and manufacturing to ensure robust integration and feasibility.
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• Support integration of console-mounted electronic features (USB ports, wireless chargers, lighting modules, switch banks, PRNDL/shifter modules).
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• Drive supplier engagement including design reviews, DFMEAs, tooling feasibility, APQP tracking, and timing deliverables.
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• Develop and execute DVP&R test plans for console and/or door trim structural durability, abuse, environmental, vibration, squeak & rattle, usability, and electrical integration.
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• Support all prototype and production builds (Mule, VP, PPAP, Launch) and resolve issues quickly through structured root cause methods.
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• Utilize formal quality tools such as root cause analysis, KT, 5-Why, Red X to investigate and eliminate console performance or assembly issues.
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• Travel regularly to plants and suppliers to support builds, validate manufacturability, and lead on-site troubleshooting.
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• Evaluate materials and manufacturing processes (injection molding, soft-touch skins, foam-over-film, insert molding, overmold, paint, hydrographics, chrome, texture & grain selection).
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• Identify and execute cost reduction and value optimization opportunities to enhance quality or reduce piece cost without sacrificing functionality or craftsmanship.
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• Benchmark competitive console and door trim designs and contribute to innovation and future cockpit experience features.
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Minimum Qualifications:

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• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Plastics Engineering, or equivalent.
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• Minimum of 3 years of experience in automotive interiors, floor consoles, cockpit systems, or complex plastic assemblies.
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• Familiarity with CAD tools — NX preferred, CATIA acceptable — for packaging, design reviews, and feasibility analysis.
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• Demonstrated experience with quality tools (root cause analysis, KT, 5-Why, Red X).
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• Strong understanding of injection molding, DFM/A, materials, tolerances, GD&T, and craftsmanship fundamentals.
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• Experience developing and executing DFMEA, DVP&R, APQP, and PPAP deliverables.
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• Ability to travel regularly to plants and suppliers for root cause investigations and build support.
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• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate in a cross-functional and global engineering environment.
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Preferred Qualifications:

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• Experience with integrated electronics such as wireless chargers, docks, USB hubs, LED ambient lighting, and console-mounted controls.
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• Knowledge of console-mounted HVAC interfaces, shifter systems, storage mechanisms, dampers, latches, magnets, and soft-open/soft-close features.
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• Experience working with multi-material console systems (PP, PC/ABS, TPO skins, PU foam, rubber mats, decorative trims).
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• Exposure to NVH development, squeak & rattle standards, and vehicle-level validation.
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• Hands-on experience supporting launch at an OEM or Tier 1 supplier.
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• Experience leading cost reduction/value engineering initiatives.
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