Job Title: Feature Assurance Engineer (FAE)
Location: Dearborn, MI
Job Type: Full- Time
Job Summary
The Feature Assurance Engineer (FAE) is responsible for leading end-to-end feature validation, signoff, and quality assurance activities throughout the product development lifecycle. This role works closely with Feature System Engineers (FSEs) and cross-functional teams to ensure that all features meet functional, performance, safety, cybersecurity, and regulatory requirements prior to production launch. The FAE drives validation strategy, issue resolution, and continuous improvement of testing processes to achieve successful program milestones and high customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
Feature Validation & Signoff
- Align on change levels and feature readiness with the Feature System Engineer (FSE).
- Lead milestone-based feature signoff processes in collaboration with FSE counterparts.
- Develop and execute comprehensive feature validation plans, covering:
- Functional validation
- Performance validation
- Functional Safety V&V
- Cybersecurity requirements
- Regulatory compliance
- Define test strategies including test cases, environments (Breadboard, HiL, vehicle), resources, and timing aligned with program milestones.
Test Planning & Execution
- Determine required software and hardware pedigrees for validation activities.
- Provide testing teams with detailed test cases, configurations, and supporting documentation.
- Coordinate and oversee execution of the Feature Validation Plan.
- Develop negative test scenarios, stress tests, and edge case validations to ensure robustness.
Issue Management & Resolution
- Lead defect triaging and resolution throughout the development lifecycle.
- Identify, assess, and prioritize defects using P-rating and Criticality Prioritization Number (CPN).
- Create and manage defect tracking in JIRA, ensuring detailed documentation and traceability.
- Develop and lead resolution and recovery plans (e.g., Deliverable Recovery Plan for P0/P1 issues).
Verification & Compliance
- Review and assess test results against defined acceptance criteria.
- Ensure compliance with all requirements and standards prior to signoff.
- Lead preparation of feature validation reports meeting high-quality signoff standards.
- Support final approvals in coordination with FAE supervisors and stakeholders.
Documentation & Reporting
- Maintain comprehensive and real-time issue tracking in JIRA.
- Upload and link all relevant validation artifacts (e.g., logs, diagnostics, videos) for traceability.
- Create dashboards and provide regular status updates (weekly/bi-weekly reviews).
- Prepare and deliver technical reports and presentations to stakeholders.
Lifecycle & Field Support
- Lead resolution of Voice of the Customer (VoC) and field issues post-launch.
- Support Vehicle Specific Configuration Specification (VSCS) reviews and signoffs.
- Drive continuous improvement in validation processes and testing methodologies.
- Assist FSEs in developing and refining test cases.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Electronics, Automotive, Computer Science, or related field).
- Proven experience in feature validation, testing, or quality assurance in embedded systems or automotive domains.
- Strong understanding of:
- System validation methodologies
- Functional safety (e.g., ISO 26262)
- Cybersecurity principles
- Experience with validation tools and environments such as HiL, vehicle testing, and diagnostic systems.
- Proficiency in defect tracking and project management tools (e.g., JIRA).
Key Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet milestone deadlines
- Detail-oriented with strong documentation discipline
- Leadership in cross-functional collaboration and issue resolution
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in automotive new model launch programs
- Familiarity with CAN tools, diagnostic tracing, and data analysis
- Knowledge of regulatory compliance and validation standards
