Steering Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Description:

Key Responsibilities Include:

Design & Development

• Collaboration with Japanese parent company, including the potential for training in Japan
• Performing engineering analysis for new product development
• Design mechanical components and assemblies with the utilization of CATIA to create 3D/2D designs for current and new products
• Develop detailed drawings, GD&T, and technical documentation per automotive standards
• Root Cause Analysis of past design issues to improve current and future design activities
• Generating and conducting preliminary research for new design concepts
• Acquire an understanding of test requirements and how they relate to design requirements
• Perform concept development, packaging studies, tolerance stack-ups, and design trade studies
• On-site customer support for problem troubleshooting and improvement
• Supporting component and vehicle tuning activity to establish the target for model development
• Attending customer vehicle confirmation events

Analysis & Validation

• Conduct or support CAE activities such as FEA, durability, vibration, and thermal analysis
• Define and review DFMEA, DVP&R, and validation plans
• Support prototype builds, testing, and design iteration based on test results

Manufacturing & Supplier Support

• Design for manufacturability (DFM) and assembly (DFA)
• Assisting in development process to achieve milestones toward production readiness
• Support production launches, tooling development, and manufacturing issue resolution
• Collaborate with suppliers on design feasibility, cost, and quality improvements
• Review and validation of supplier test results

Program & Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Work with program management to meet timing, cost, and quality targets
• Support design reviews, change management (ECR/ECO), and release processes
• Interface with quality, purchasing, and manufacturing engineering teams

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure designs meet internal standards, customer requirements, and regulatory guidelines
• Apply automotive standards such as ISO, SAE, ASME Y14.5 (GD&T), and IATF 16949 practices

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited institution focusing in Mechanical Engineering.  Other fields of study may be considered.
• Experience with CAD design software in creating 3D/2D data, CATIA V5/V6 preferred
• Ability to apply principles of both electrical and mechanical systems
• Experience and demonstrated skill with Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) methodologies
• Ability to read/understand technical drawings and specifications
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills (i.e. – team involvement and/or community involvement)
• Demonstrated effective communication skills, both written and oral
• Ability to multi-task projects and determine priorities to ensure timely conclusion
• Willingness for occasional travel with short stay in Japan for training purposes
• Proficient with Microsoft Office.
• We are seeking candidates at all experience levels

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2–5+ years of experience in mechanical design (automotive preferred)
• Experience with vehicle systems (chassis, steering, braking, powertrain, etc.)
• Knowledge of automotive development cycles and launch processes
• Hands-on experience with prototypes, testing, or manufacturing environments
• Experience or knowledge in manufacturing and fabrication.
• Demonstrated experience in ISO26262 and/or ISO9001 / IATF16949
• Formula SAE involvement and/or Automobile enthusiast / self-auto repair.
• Experience with feedback control systems.
• Experience using Matlab / Simulink.
• A thorough understanding of Statistical Quality Control.
• Proficient with the Japanese and Spanish languages.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to work in fast-paced, cross-functional environments
• Clear technical communication and documentation skills
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Cost, weight, and performance optimization mindset

Work Environment:

• Office and engineering lab environment with periodic plant or supplier visits
• May support prototype builds, testing, or launch activities

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) – Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, identity, disability, protected veteran status and national origin.

At Astemo, we’re challenging the status quo with the power of diversity, inclusion, and collaboration. Our goal is to build an inclusive work environment that celebrates the differences of our employees. We want to ensure that every employee feels valued, respected and empowered. We don’t just accept difference—we celebrate it, we support it, and we thrive on it for the benefit of our employees, our products, and our community. Astemo is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job at Astemo, please send the nature of the request and contact information to am-jobs@hitachiastemo.com when applying for the position.