Product Development - Seat Complete Engineer
Join Ford's innovative team as a Seat Complete Engineer, where you'll drive the design, development, and launch of cutting-edge seat systems that define comfort, safety, and quality for our next-generation vehicles.
We made history and now we work to transform the future – for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.
Product Development uses design thinking & user experience methods to deliver breakthrough products and services that delight our customers. We bring innovative, exciting, and sustainable ideas to life. We have opportunities around the world for you to contribute to advancements in autonomy, electrification, smart mobility technologies, and more!
In this position...
Are you passionate about shaping the future of automotive comfort and safety? The interior systems engineering at seat is seeking a dynamic and highly motivated Seat Complete Engineer to join our product development team in the USA. In this critical role, you will be at the forefront of designing, developing, releasing, and launching complete seat systems and components, playing a pivotal part in the Global Product Development System (GPDS) from concept to Job 1. You will be responsible for managing Quality, Weight, Cost, and Timing for your assigned parts, ensuring compliance with all System Design Specifications (SDS) and Federal Regulations.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to collaborate with diverse cross-functional teams, lead integration efforts, and bring innovative seating solutions to life in a fast-paced and challenging environment. If you are a proactive problem-solver with a strong engineering background and a desire to make a tangible impact on the driving experience, we encourage you to apply.
What you'll do...
- Design, develop, release, and launch seat systems or components through Ford's Global Product Development System (GPDS), from PRE-PSC (Program Strategic Confirmation) to J1 (Job 1).
- Manage Quality, Weight, Cost, and Timing for assigned parts throughout the product lifecycle.
- Actively participate in and lead program-related meetings, including To4, Seat Complete, EMMs, TDRMs, supplier meetings, and purchasing meetings, as required.
- Develop and execute Seat system/component level Design Verification Plans (DVP), support vehicle/system level DVP, and ensure full compliance with all System Design Specifications (SDS) and Federal Regulations, including unique Export Market Requirements.
- Create and maintain a detailed timing/Gantt chart (PDP) for assigned parts and projects to track progress and milestones.
- Document and maintain a list of recurrence prevention actions, lessons learned, and required design rules, cascading this knowledge to the Core team for continuous improvement.
- Coordinate effectively with various internal and external stakeholders, including Seat Complete, Seat Structure, Seat Features, Studio, Safety, Craftsmanship, Vehicle Operations (VO), Product Verification & Test , Suppliers, Tool shops, Purchasing, Finance, and Program teams, to ensure design intent meets all requirements.
- Lead the integration of seating components into the overall seat system, ensuring seamless functionality and performance.
- The Product Development Engineer is responsible for managing product release CAD and BOM structures, including assembly positioning and mass attribute analysis. This role also includes facilitating supplier data integration and developing CAD studies to support and drive design improvements.
- The Product Development Engineer is expected to understand and effectively utilize product check-in/check-out processes, version control, data release, and change management within Ford’s PLM ecosystem.
- The Product Development Engineer will perform feasibility analyses using CAD tools, including draft angle analysis, undercut detection, minimum bend radius validation for sheet metal, and clearance checks to support manufacturing and machining requirements.