Automotive Exterior Engineer

Novi, MI
Full Time
Experienced
SWJ Technologie specializes in providing engineering, planning, and project management services across various industries. We are currently seeking an Exterior Engineer – Trim/ Fascia for an assigned project with a client in the automotive industry. The position is based in Novi, MI, or Charlotte, NC, and follows a hybrid work model requiring in-office presence at least three days per week, as well as international and domestic travel of up to approximately 20%. If you are eager to grow your career and make a meaningful impact on exciting projects, we look forward to your application.

PURPOSE: 
The Exterior Engineer - Trim/Fascia is responsible for the design, development, and delivery of vehicle exterior systems, including bumpers, fascia, and trim components, for next-generation electric vehicles. The role ensures robust, high-quality, and manufacturable solutions that meet performance, safety, and aesthetic requirements while supporting program targets and timelines.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Engineer and develop vehicle exterior systems including bumpers, fascia, grilles, brackets, bumper beams, hitches, structural reinforcements, and exterior trim components.
  • Define and establish bumper and fascia standards and requirements to ensure product robustness and quality.
  • Ensure seamless integration of components into manufacturing processes while meeting all program milestones and deliverables.
  • Lead and/or support RFQ development, technical reviews, and supplier selection.
  • Lead cross-functional Product Development Teams, collaborating with internal stakeholders and suppliers to define design direction and deliver innovative, feasible solutions.
  • Ensure all program targets are met, including piece cost, investment, ED&D budget, timing, weight, and quality.
  • Develop and maintain engineering documentation such as specifications, DVP&R, DFMEA, control plans, and quality requirements.
  • Direct design and analysis teams in developing CAD models, 3D packaging, and validation using CAE tools (FEA, CFD, crash analysis).
  • Ensure compliance with global safety regulations and compatibility with manufacturing processes such as injection molding, painting, and assembly.
  • Act as a key technical decision-maker and interface across cross-functional teams.
  • Define and manage component and subsystem requirements, including interface control documents (ICDs).
  • Track and resolve technical issues in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
  • Ensure timely validation, complete testing coverage, and requirement traceability at component, system, and vehicle levels.
  • Conduct design reviews and product evaluations during prototype and pre-production phases.
  • Support prototype development, including virtual and physical validation and field testing.
  • Monitor market trends, customer expectations, and technological advancements to drive continuous improvement.
  • Apply industry best practices such as Robust Engineering, Design for Manufacturability (DFM), and Design for Serviceability (DFS).
  • Travel
    • Domestic and international travel required as needed.
    • may include visits to assembly plants, supplier facilities, tool shops, and participation in vehicle builds and launch events.
    • Valid passport required
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
  • Proven experience in automotive exterior systems design and development.
  • Demonstrated capability in solving complex engineering challenges.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in the field of expertise
REQUIRED SKILLS:
  • Expertise in exterior systems with specialization in one or more of the following:
    • Exterior Trim
    • Fascia Systems
    • Bumper Systems
  • Strong knowledge of Class A surface components and trim mechanical systems across all product development phases (Design, Test, Launch).
  • Solid understanding of mechanical design principles including GD&T, material selection, and DFM.
  • Proficiency in CAD tools (preferably CATIA V5/V6).
  • Experience with PLM systems (preferably Teamcenter).
  • Familiarity with CAE tools and validation methods.
  • Hands-on experience in automotive product launches, including prototype builds and production ramp-up.
  • Knowledge of high-volume automotive manufacturing processes.
  • Strong analytical and first-principles problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams and organizational levels.
  • Adaptability and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
REQUIRED SKILLS:
  • Experience with Volkswagen
  • Willingness to travel

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Work is normally performed in an office, laboratory, manufacturing floor, or machine shop setting where physical work includes, but is not limited to sitting, standing, reaching, kneeling, bending, and lifting up to 25 lbs.
  • Must be able to understand and comply with all relevant safety practices.

FLSA STATUS/WORKING SCHEDULE:
  • Location: Novi, MI or Charlotte NC
  • Schedule: Full Time/ 40 hours per week /
     Hybrid in-office attendance required at least 3 times per week
  • Travel: up to 20% internation and domestics travel
  • Overtime: as required
  • Assignment Start: July 2026 – December 2030
  • Duration: up to 4.5 years

DISCLAIMER:
This job description is a high-level overview of general expectations of this position. It is not intended to list every responsibility of the position, nor does it represent an employment contract of any kind.

 

SWJ TECHNOLOGY and all of its subsidiaries (i.e., NGE EQUIPMENT and ProjectOne US) are Equal Opportunity Employers and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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