Design Release Engineer

JOB DESCRIPTION

Overview

A Design Release Engineer (DRE) is responsible for leading the design, release, and ongoing engineering management of assigned components—particularly vehicle seating systems—for OEM programs. The role requires close coordination with OEM platform teams, suppliers, internal engineering groups, and manufacturing plants.

Primary Responsibilities

Lead engineering release activities for assigned parts (seats, trim, foam, etc. depending on program needs).

Serve as the key engineering interface to OEM platform teams, supporting program timing, technical reviews, and issue resolution.

Create, update, and release engineering documentation including:

Drawings

Specifications

Change Requests (CRs)

Change Orders (COs)

• Temporary Work Orders (TWOs)

• Support OEM release processes

• Participate in GM/Adient engineering change processes (ECR creation, validation plans, VCD attachments, DRBFM submissions). 

• Manage timing, cost impacts, and coordination with Design System Engineers, Validation Engineers, and Program Engineering Managers. 

• Travel to customer and supplier manufacturing sites for design reviews, issue resolution, and launch support. 

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong communication skills (verbal and written) for interfacing with OEM engineering and cross‑functional internal teams. 

• Experience using release systems is a must; Highly preferred experience working in ECM / Edge

• Solid technical foundation in mechanical design, product development, problem solving, and requirements balancing.

• Knowledge of CAD systems such as Unigraphics/NX 

• Strong analytical ability, especially in assessing risks, design constraints, manufacturability, and cost impacts.

• Ability to support fast‑paced program environments with hands‑on engineering ownership. 

Education & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering preferred.

• Associate degree acceptable with sufficient relevant experience.

• Minimum 2 years experience in automotive seating, interiors, or product development. 

• Direct OEM experience (particularly General Motors) is highly beneficial.

• Familiarity with GM tooling, eSOR requirements, CCC components, and seating program workflows is advantageous. 

PRIMARY LOCATION

Central Tech Unit Plymouth MI