Theme Development Engineer

We are seeking a Theme Development Engineer to work across design, engineering, and manufacturing teams to help bring the design vision to reality. In this role, you will develop initial engineering concepts for new design themes, integrate multiple engineering and manufacturing inputs into the A-surface, and help reconcile functional requirements with thematic intent. You will also support the creation of physical and digital models that connect concept to production feasibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead studio property setup and integrity, including content, data pedigree, ride height, manikin drop, and overall suitability

• Lead completion of studies within the Design Feasibility FC Process from FC0 to K6

• Complete Design Development Checklists, Hardpoints Plan, and integrate aligned plans into surface development

• Lead the integration of A-surface with thematic, VA, functional, and attribute inputs while maintaining the emotive character and design intent of the surface

• Guide initial theme setup and development through, or in advance of, functional, supplier, or attribute inputs

• Develop and maintain Surface Scaffold files to support physical and digital model development and theme overlay

• Provide concept alternatives and proposals to help reconcile thematic intent with functional and program assumptions

• Lead the optimization and balancing of inputs into the studio, including consideration of “what-might-be” to support the theme vision

• Manage data within, into, and out of the studio

• Work with cross-functional team members to make the design vision a reality

• Develop initial engineering concepts for new design ideas and support suitable physical model development

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or automotive equivalent

• 3+ years of proven experience in complete vehicle layout/package, including Body and Trim

• Strong CATIA skills with the ability to independently create complex 3D proposals

• Strong experience in CAD and CAD Design

• Ability to work across design, engineering, and manufacturing inputs to support feasibility and design intent

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic understanding or experience as a Design Release Engineer

• Basic understanding or experience in Structural Engineering

• Strong familiarity with legislative requirements affecting the Design Feasibility process

• Demonstrated experience leading and presenting in decision-making forums

• Demonstrated understanding of feasibility tools and design studio feasibility progression

• Strong understanding of production processes

Education

• Required: Bachelor’s Degree

• Preferred: Master’s Degree

Work Environment

• Hybrid

• 4 days per week onsite

• Monday through Thursday in office