Job Description
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
- Support the development and launch of new or improved safety products using the Stage-Gate process, managing and completing engineering deliverables such as specification, cost, and timing targets.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with CAPE Testing, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, Finance, and Program Management to ensure product feasibility, manufacturability, and successful launch.
- Produce, present, and maintain engineering documentation (drawings, design requirements, DVP&R, DFMEA, specifications, design reviews) in compliance with company policies, safety regulations, and industry standards.
- Develop and execute validation testing and analyze results to qualify designs and capture compliance evidence for audits and customer reviews.
- Utilize hands-on skills to build prototypes, oversee sample development, and lead test programs to qualify designs through quantitative data analysis.
- Interface with customers and suppliers to clearly communicate technical requirements, resolve issues, and coordinate outsourcing activities such as part sourcing or contract design.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to product design, processes, and departmental operations.
- Perform other administrative or support duties as needed to assist the team in meeting departmental and corporate objectives.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive, Electrical, or equivalent with 3+ years of experience in product development, preferably in the automotive industry. (Associate's degree with 6+ years relevant experience may be acceptable)
- Proficient in component and mechanism design through Solidworks or equivalent CAD software.
- Understanding of GD&T, DFM/DFA principles, and the automotive product development lifecycle.
- Familiarity with and ability to update engineering documentation and quality tools, including DFMEA, DVP&R, and other APQP tools.
- Effective use of engineering software, systems, and manual tools relevant to product development.
- Strong problem-solving, communication (written and verbal), project management and organizational skills with the ability to collaborate in a team-oriented, cross-functional environment.
- Demonstrates understanding of and adherence to IMMI policies, industry safety standards, and legal/regulatory requirements.
- Exposure to validation testing, prototype development, or manufacturing processes is a plus.
- Commitment to continuous learning through education, certifications, and training.
Required Tools:
- Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook)
- ERP/PLM systems (e.g. Oracle, SAP, Fusion, EPDM)
- CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks)
- Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerance (GD&T)
- Failure mode assessment (DFMEA, Failure Tree Analysis, Design Review by Failure Mode)
- Product validation (DVP&R)
Desired Characteristics:
General Skills and Abilities:
- Design experience in the overall structure, mechanical mechanisms (e.g., adjustment, locking, folding) and key components of child car seats.
- Familiarity with global child car seat standards and regulatory requirements, including China's GB27887, European ECE R44/04, ECE R129 (i-Size), and U.S. FMVSS 213.