Product Development Engineer

Product Development Engineer

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Product Development Engineer (PDE) with expertise in CATIA V5 and Siemens NX to support the development of automotive foam-based components. This role combines hands-on CAD design and release, cross-functional collaboration, supplier engagement, and launch support to ensure robust, cost-effective, and manufacturable solutions from concept through production.

Responsibilities/skills:

• Create, modify, and release 3D models and 2D drawings using CATIA V5 and Siemens NX, per customer and internal standards.
• Own the engineering release process (models, drawings, BOMs, specifications) and manage changes through the appropriate change-control workflow.
• Lead component/system design from concept through launch, ensuring requirements, feasibility, cost, and manufacturability targets are met.
• Coordinate with Manufacturing, Quality, Program Management, Purchasing, Suppliers, and Customers to align on deliverables, timing, and technical direction.
• Support APQP activities including DFMEA/PFMEA collaboration, design reviews, and engineering sign-off documentation.
• Develop and execute validation plans with internal teams and suppliers; support DV/PV build phases, fit/function reviews, and issue resolution.
• Interface with tooling/supplier partners to ensure part design supports robust tooling and process capability; participate in tool reviews and tryouts as needed.
• Provide plant and launch support (build events, containment, root cause analysis, corrective actions) and drive design improvements.
• Apply GD&T and dimensional management principles to ensure fit, finish, and functional performance.
• Maintain engineering documentation, lessons learned, and best practices; support continuous improvement in design methods and standards.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of experience as a Product Development Engineer / Design Engineer in an automotive OEM or Tier 1/Tier 2 environment.
• Proficiency in CATIA V5 (part design, assemblies, drafting) and Siemens NX; ability to interpret and create production-released drawings.
• Experience with PLM/PDM systems (Teamcenter) is a requirement.
• Strong understanding of GD&T (ASME Y14.5), tolerance stack-up fundamentals, and dimensional control.
• Working knowledge of automotive product development processes and deliverables (APQP, PPAP, DFMEA/PFMEA, DVP&R, DV/PV builds).
• Experience supporting launch activities and build events, including problem solving and corrective actions.
• Manufacturing process familiarity relevant to trim/foam products (e.g., die-cutting, vacuum forming, compression molding, PU foam, CNC machining) is a plus.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to present technical topics to cross-functional teams and customers.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word); organized, self-directed, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Open-minded and eager to learn and grow within a collaborative engineering environment.