Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is seeking an Interior Soft Trim Materials Engineer to develop new flexible material technologies and support North and South American production through collaborative work with Engineering Design, Design Studios, Manufacturing, and Purchasing divisions. This role is located in the Materials Development Department at our Superior Township, MI (just East of Ann Arbor) location.
In this role you will:
Validate new soft trim material technologies and production polymeric materials (leather, flexible PVC/PU/TPU, foam, fabric, fiber composites, etc.) for future launching vehicles. Work scope includes patent submissions, R&D projects, production material quality improvements, and co-work within Hyundai Motor Group divisions, suppliers, and the Hyundai R&D center in Namyang, South Korea.
This candidate will identify high potential new materials technology projects (focusing on quality improvement, cost reduction, or sustainability), then execute and manage the development of this technology from concept to a production-ready solution. This includes budget allocation and proposal requests, project management of materials testing, materials development, processing evaluation, component level performance, and transfer to related teams upon successful completion.
This position also includes performing root cause analysis of field claim quality issues and collaborating with assembly plants, engineering design teams, and suppliers to implement improvement countermeasures.
Additional responsibilities may include periodic audit testing of material performance to specification requirements, and competitor benchmark investigations.
This role requires candidates to conduct laboratory testing of materials and evaluate material performance. Must be comfortable with directing lab technicians on testing, analyzing results, and reporting results to management.
Improve the quality of current Hyundai and Kia production parts.
Assist in planning and monitoring of department budgets.
Create and present technical reports as assigned.
Perform administrative functions such as purchasing requests, vacation requests, travel requests, etc.
Perform additional projects as assigned.
Travel up to 20% of time domestically and internationally.
Understand of a second language is a plus.
What We Offer:
Zero-dollar employee premiums on Medical, dental, and vision for you and your family
100% employer-paid disability and Life insurance
Generous paid Time Off including vacation, sick, and abundant holidays.
A Global Environment that fosters diversity
Competitive Salaries
Retirement savings and planning benefits
Flexible work hours, and hybrid work schedule options
Access to Health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts
Desired Experience and Skills
Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Material Science, Rubber or Plastic Technology, Polymer Science; Other degrees may be considered based on relevant experience
Experience in polymeric materials, with emphasis on flexible materials
Valid Driver's License and Satisfactory Driving Record
Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai Kia must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.
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Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is an equal opportunity employer commited to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, other protected veteran status, and any other protected class under law.