Design Release Engineer - Intermediate

Job Title:

Design Release Engineer - Intermediate Job Description This role focuses on owning and executing design and release engineering activities for internal combustion engine powertrain systems at both the component and system level. The Design Release Engineer develops and manages design changes, supports validation and launch activities, and collaborates closely with suppliers and cross-functional teams to ensure high-quality, compliant, and timely delivery of engine sub-systems. The position requires strong technical expertise in engine systems, proficiency with CAD and PLM tools, and hands-on experience with product development processes and launch support. Responsibilities Perform design and release engineering activities for engine components and systems, ensuring robust and compliant designs at both component and system levels. Follow the Design Change Checklist for each part to determine and plan required Design Verification (DV) and Production Validation (PV) activities. Execute CAD and CAE updates as required to support design changes and continuous improvement. Develop and maintain Design Verification Plan and Report (DVP&R) for engine systems and components. Manage interactions with new suppliers in coordination with the Supplier Technical Assistance (STA) team, ensuring technical alignment and timely delivery. Create and maintain detailed development work plans that align with overall program timing and milestones. Support and maintain the engine Bill of Materials (BOM), ensuring accuracy, completeness, and alignment with program requirements. Perform WERS releases and actively participate in change control processes to manage engineering changes. Move multiple parts across various engine platforms to alternative suppliers while maintaining design integrity and performance requirements. Focus on powertrain systems including, but not limited to, base engine, exhaust and after-treatment, turbochargers and air induction, thermal systems, and fuel, ignition, and evaporative emissions systems, as well as other internal combustion engine powertrain systems. Own the engine sub-system design release process using OEM Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems such as Teamcenter and CATIA. Approve drawings, BOMs, part numbers, and configuration content to ensure they meet engineering and program standards. Manage Engineering Change Requests (ECRs) and Engineering Change Orders (ECOs), ensuring proper documentation and implementation. Evaluate and communicate the impact of design changes on cost, quality, emissions, and timing, and ensure stakeholders understand these impacts. Lead validation activities, including planning and execution of DV/PV testing such as durability, thermal, NVH, performance, and emissions testing. Lead engine sub-system Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) activities, including DFMEA, PFMEA, SCAAFS, Control Plans, and related deliverables. Coordinate prototype, mule, and pre-production engine builds, ensuring parts, designs, and documentation are ready and correct. Support Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) readiness and launch activities to ensure a smooth transition to production. Ensure quality and compliance are maintained throughout the design and release process and perform risk management activities to identify and mitigate potential issues. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including validation, manufacturing, quality, and suppliers, to resolve issues and drive continuous improvement in engine sub-systems. Essential Skills Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related engineering field. 3 to 6+ years of Design Release Engineer (DRE) experience in any commodity, demonstrating ownership of design and release activities. Prior experience in design release or technical leadership roles within an engineering environment. Strong knowledge of engine systems, materials, and manufacturing processes relevant to internal combustion powertrain systems. Hands-on experience with APQP, including DFMEA, PFMEA, SCAAFS, Control Plans, and related quality tools. Experience with PPAP and product launch support for automotive or engine systems. Proficiency with CAD tools, particularly CATIA, for creating and updating engineering designs. Proficiency with PLM tools such as Teamcenter for managing product data, configurations, and design releases. Ability to manage Engineering Change Requests (ECRs) and Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) and navigate formal change control processes. Demonstrated ability to evaluate and communicate the impact of design changes on cost, quality, emissions, and timing. Experience working within an OEM environment, including familiarity with OEM-specific PLM systems and processes. Ford-specific experience working with their tools, processes, or engine programs. Additional Skills & Qualifications Master's degree in Mechanical, Automotive, or a related engineering field is beneficial. Experience supporting or leading validation activities, including DV/PV testing for durability, thermal, NVH, performance, and emissions. Experience in managing supplier interactions and supporting supplier development with STA or similar teams. Experience coordinating prototype, mule, and pre-production builds for engine or powertrain systems. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify risks and implement effective mitigation plans. Solid communication skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and presenting technical information clearly. Familiarity with WERS or similar systems for release and change control in an automotive context. Work Environment The role operates within a structured automotive product development environment focused on internal combustion engine and powertrain systems. You will work extensively with OEM Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems such as Teamcenter and CAD tools like CATIA to manage designs, configurations, and releases. The position involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams including validation, manufacturing, quality, and supplier support, as well as interaction with external suppliers and STA teams. Work typically follows program timing and launch schedules, requiring careful planning and coordination around key milestones such as prototype, mule, pre-production builds, and production launch. The environment emphasizes rigorous change control, quality, and compliance, with frequent use of tools and processes such as WERS, APQP, DFMEA, PFMEA, SCAAFS, Control Plans, DV/PV testing, and PPAP. Dress expectations align with a professional engineering setting, with typical office attire and appropriate safety wear when visiting labs, test facilities, or production-related areas. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Dearborn, MI. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $45.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Dearborn,MI.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 2, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.