Automotive Packaging Integration Engineer

Talascend is currently seeking an Automotive Packaging Integration Engineer for a contract opportunity with our client in Warren, Michigan.

Overview

Support the integration and enablement of design teams by developing technical engineering solutions that resolve packaging challenges while protecting design aesthetics. This role coordinates cross-functional collaboration, leads meetings, supports design development, and balances packaging solutions with customer-facing targets.

Responsibilities

• Create, refine, and finalize engineering criteria while collaborating with creative design teams.
• Lead the development of integrated technical engineering solutions to resolve packaging issues using physical and mathematical models.
• Evaluate design alternatives by considering cost, mass, timing, design for assembly, dimensional variation, and other program requirements.
• Integrate regional and global requirements and develop alternatives to meet regional and brand needs.
• Communicate with team members to understand and resolve challenges within the area of responsibility.
• Balance packaging and studio models with customer-facing targets, including spaciousness, visibility, occupant accommodation, storage, cargo, and access.
• Lead cross-functional surface and integration meetings, including technical review and surface workgroups.
• Lead issue resolution and escalation and drive prompt resolution.
• Support the technical development of design surfaces using digital models, full-size and scale clay models, clinic properties, and virtual or mixed-reality mockups.
• Benchmark competing designs and ensure the integrated package is competitive in section size, clearances, component locations, component size, and functional performance.
• Develop meeting agendas and publish meeting minutes.
• Create and review computer-aided design models for surface guidance.
• Develop and maintain computer-aided design skills.
• Incorporate customer feedback into package design.
• Develop space claims and packaging solutions that meet customer needs while maximizing space utilization.
• Support virtual assessments and review synchronization points.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering or a related engineering discipline, or an established equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 5 years of experience in a related area.
• Experience with automotive packaging and integration, including interior and exterior applications.
• Proficiency with computer-aided design and basic knowledge of three-dimensional modeling.
• Understanding of engineering theory and automotive design principles.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes and engineering specifications.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to integrate complex systems with a strong interest in design.
• Strong analytical ability to address unusual or difficult problems.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability to lead meetings and coordinate stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with design for six sigma methodologies and trade-off analysis.
• Experience with virtual validation, digital mockups, benchmarking, and competitive analysis.
• Experience supporting design studios or working in the automotive industry or an adjacent industry.