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.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
2+ years of experience with complete seat systems and/or components in an automotive domain or similar.
1 year of CAD experience.
Master's degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical, Industrial Engineering, or a related field (even better).
Experience in product development and parts verification/validation.
Knowledge and experience with Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA).
Ability to read and conceptualize 2D and 3D Engineering Drawings, including Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
2D/3D CAD capable on parametric software and Teamcenter, VisMockup, CATIA, Solid Edge, Solid Works, or equivalent.
Proficiency in MS Office applications, including MS Project.
Strong communication skills.

Benefits

Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service
A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

CADDesign Verification Plans (DVP)Quality ManagementWeight ManagementCost ManagementTiming ManagementFailure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA)Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)mass attribute analysisfeasibility analyses

Soft Skills

strong communication skillsleadershipcoordinationcontinuous improvementstakeholder management

Certifications

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical EngineeringBachelor's degree in MechatronicsBachelor's degree in Electrical EngineeringBachelor's degree in Industrial EngineeringMaster's degree in Mechanical EngineeringMaster's degree in MechatronicsMaster's degree in Electrical EngineeringMaster's degree in Industrial Engineering