Design and Release Engineer

Ford Motor Company

Design and Release Engineer leading design and release for Ford Racing interior components. Collaborating on quality and timing targets for new model programs in Michigan.

Posted 7/6/2026full-timeAllen Park • Missouri • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $86,600 - $144,900 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead the design, release, and delivery of components and systems across multiple interior commodities for an upcoming Ford Racing new model program.
Manage Quality, Cost, Weight, Function, and Timing (QCWFT) targets to support program and engineering GPDS (Global Product Development System) milestones.
Act as the primary interface between the design and color/material studios to deliver exceptional customer expectations without compromising engineering integrity.
Lead Full-Service Suppliers (FSS) and other internal/external engineering resources to successfully deliver the subject program.
Utilize fabrication and mockup skills to build physical proofs-of-concept, connecting analytical tools with physical hardware to validate performance and ergonomics.
Support issue resolution and drive design change management during high-stakes prototype builds and final launch builds.
Assure conformance to the unique 'Ford Racing DNA,' as well as all applicable Ford corporate and government regulatory requirements.
Maintain highly collaborative relationships with the Core Body Interior Engineering Organization.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Mechanical, Automotive, or similar discipline).
5+ years of experience in Automotive Body Interior Design & Release (D&R). Note: Body Structures or Closures D&R experience may also be considered.
Proven track record of delivering at least 1 completed vehicle program through launch.
2+ years of professional experience using CAD or other 3D visualization tools.
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) is a plus.
Deep passion for high-performance vehicles and motorsports.
Working knowledge of enterprise engineering systems: 3DX, Teamcenter, Vis Mockup, CATIA, DFMEA, FEDE, FEDEBOM, and WERS.
Prior hands-on fabrication or mockup experience to demonstrate physical proof of concept.
Thorough understanding of automotive program delivery processes and milestone management (GPDS).
An independent, self-starter mentality with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-visibility environment.

Benefits

Comp & perks

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.

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

Automotive Body Interior Design3D Visualization ToolsFabrication SkillsMockup SkillsProgram Delivery ProcessesEngineering Design PrinciplesRegulatory ComplianceDesign Change ManagementPrototype Build ManagementVehicle Program Launch

Soft Skills

Independent Self-StarterCollaborative Relationship BuildingProblem-SolvingAdaptabilityCommunication

Certifications

Bachelor of Science in EngineeringMaster of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)