*THIS WILL SIT ONSITE IN TORRANCE, CA
Job Title: Design Engineer - Body
Job Description
The Design Engineer - Body will conceptualize and develop mechanical designs for body systems and components used in late model air-cooled Porsche vehicles. Using Catia V5 and other CAD tools, this role focuses on body-in-white, exterior, closures, exterior trim, and glass systems, ensuring designs meet performance, cost, timing, and manufacturing requirements. The engineer will lead component and system development from concept through release, collaborate closely with cross-functional and global teams, manage suppliers, and mentor junior engineers while driving continuous improvement in product quality and engineering processes.
Responsibilities
Conceptualize and create mechanical designs for new products using Catia V5 and other CAD software for late model air-cooled Porsche body systems.
Develop deep expertise in assigned body systems and components, including body-in-white (BIW), exterior, closures, exterior trim, and glass systems.
Understand the packaging environment, mounting strategies, and load conditions of automotive components and systems, and design effectively even with limited initial information.
Plan and execute part evaluations on vehicles, as well as component and system validation plans to confirm performance and durability.
Interface with and manage suppliers to ensure timely and accurate execution of project deliverables and technical requirements.
Collaborate closely with global Design, Production Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Production teams to ensure integrated and manufacturable solutions.
Plan, execute, and initiate process improvement activities, including the application of Lean or Six Sigma methodologies where appropriate.
Evaluate existing drawings and 3D models of assemblies and processes to identify design improvements and ensure consistency with current standards.
Develop testing processes and perform testing and validation of new designs to verify fit, function, and performance.
Create working prototypes and first article parts for fit and function testing, and incorporate test findings into design refinements.
Review and approve 3D models, 2D drawings, and specifications created by junior engineers to ensure accuracy and compliance with standards.
Complete part release responsibilities in accordance with established company processes and engineering change procedures.
Prepare and maintain documentation to track project development, design decisions, and engineering changes throughout the product lifecycle.
Monitor project timelines and budgets, ensuring projects remain on schedule and within agreed cost targets.
Identify and track indicators for improvement and cost reduction opportunities, and implement design changes that enhance value.
Create product introduction materials such as work instructions, exploded view parts manuals, and related documentation to support manufacturing and service.
Mentor and assist junior engineers by providing technical guidance, design reviews, and support in engineering best practices.
Apply knowledge of design for manufacturability and DFMEA concepts to reduce risk and improve product robustness.
Use data analysis tools to monitor, track, and continually improve the total cost equation of components and systems.
Learn and apply new test and development equipment, such as 3D scanners, 3D printers, and data acquisition systems, to enhance design and validation capabilities.
Essential Skills
Bachelor's degree in mechanical or industrial engineering with an emphasis in automotive, mechanical, manufacturing, or industrial engineering required.
3-5 years of mechanical design and drafting experience using CAD software such as SolidWorks, Catia, or equivalent required.
Experience in the automotive industry required, with exposure to vehicle body systems or related components.
Experience with engineering development processes and the design and release of components and systems required.
Proficiency in creating 2D drawings and 3D models of advanced mechanical components and assemblies.
Ability to reverse engineer components with limited information and derive accurate design intent.
Ability to solve complex problems under design constraints and deliver optimized solutions for function, cost, timing, and manufacturability.
Strong critical thinking and analytical skills, including the ability to synthesize large amounts of data with multiple variables into clear action plans.
Demonstrated ability to lead projects through completion and consistently meet deadlines.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical issues to a broad audience.
Team-oriented mindset with the ability to multi-task and work effectively in a fast-paced environment with multiple deadlines.
Understanding of customer expectations for luxury, high-performance vehicles and the ability to translate these expectations into design requirements.
Proficiency with PowerPoint, Excel, or similar data analysis and presentation software.
Knowledge of Pareto Analysis, Root Cause Analysis, Corrective Action, or related problem-solving methodologies strongly preferred.
Understanding of design for manufacturability and DFMEA concepts as they apply to automotive components and systems.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Master's degree in mechanical or industrial engineering with an emphasis in automotive, mechanical, manufacturing, or industrial engineering is a plus.
Experience with advanced surfacing capabilities in CAD tools is highly desirable.
Experience with engineering data management systems is a strong advantage.
Experience monitoring, tracking, and continually improving the total cost equation of components and systems.
Willingness and ability to learn and use new test and measurement equipment such as 3D scanners, 3D printers, and data acquisition systems.
Familiarity with Lean or Six Sigma process improvement methodologies.
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality engineering documentation and design standards.
Work Environment
This role operates in a professional engineering environment focused on luxury, high-performance automotive products. The Design Engineer works primarily in an office and lab setting, using tools such as Catia V5, SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software, and data analysis tools like Excel and PowerPoint. The position involves close collaboration with global cross-functional teams in Design, Production Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Production, as well as regular interaction with external suppliers. Work may include time in prototype and test areas to support part evaluations, validation activities, and the use of equipment such as 3D scanners, 3D printers, and data acquisition systems. The pace is fast and project-driven, with multiple concurrent deadlines and a strong emphasis on innovation, continuous improvement, and cost-effective, manufacturable design solutions. Professional attire appropriate for an engineering office and occasional shop-floor or lab work is expected.
Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Dearborn, MI.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $100000.00 - $130000.00/yr.
Health & Wellness 80% employer-covered medical, dental, and vision premiums for employees and family Tax-free savings options via HSA and FSA, including employer HSA contributions Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage Time Off & Flexibility Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) - 2-3 weeks per year depending on the role 13 paid holidays annually, including the week between Christmas and New Year's off Financial Benefits Annual bonus plan 401(k) with company match Annual merit increases following performance reviews (when
