PD Engineer – Auto Transmission Shifter Systems

Ford Motor Company

Ford product development engineer owning automatic transmission shifter systems. Integrating hardware, software, suppliers, and vehicle teams from concept through launch.

Posted 8/5/2026full-timeDearborn • Missouri • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $74,300 - $124,500 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in automotive engineering with a focus on electronic and mechanical interfaces, program management, and supplier engagement. Proficient in CAD systems and quality management methodologies to ensure compliance with safety and performance standards.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Automotive Engineering ExperienceCATIA ProficiencyProgram Management SkillsSupplier Engagement ManagementDFMEA Knowledge

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Automotive Engineering2D/3D CAD InterpretationDFMEADVP&RP-DiagramAnalytical SkillsStructured Problem-SolvingComponent TestingEMC KnowledgeAutomotive PPAP Knowledge

Soft Skills

Strong CommunicationOrganization SkillsCross-Functional Collaboration

Tools & Technologies

JIRAAIMSFEDEWERSMicrosoft Office Suite

Certifications & Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in EngineeringMaster’s Degree in EngineeringSix Sigma Green BeltSix Sigma Black Belt

Industry Keywords

Electronic Module DesignAutomatic Transmission ShifterVehicle SystemsMaterial PropertiesMass Production ProcessesGovernmental Safety RequirementsVehicle-Device Software InterfacesSupplier Quality EngineersHMI/ErgonomicsTotal Value Management

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Own the end-to-end design, packaging, integration, and release of electronic and/or mechanical automatic transmission shifter commodities
Define appearance and functional requirements, design rules, system-level specifications, and dimensional stack-ups
Manage commodities before and after launch to support quality, manufacturing feasibility, and Total Value Management cost-efficiency initiatives
Partner with design teams to optimize component performance, reliability, and durability for governmental safety requirements
Interface with vehicle-level electrical systems engineers to define requirements, review schematics, and ensure module compatibility
Manage CAD data interfaces, CAN messaging databases, and vehicle-device software interfaces
Lead sound quality delivery and tactile craftsmanship for the user interface
Manage the supplier base and lead supplier engagement and alignment meetings with Supplier Quality Engineers
Manage supplier- and vehicle-level hardware and software testing and related quality documentation
Collaborate globally with Design Studio, HMI/Ergonomics, Manufacturing, Feature Owners, and Electrical Architecture teams
Drive issue resolution using JIRA and AIMS and maintain prioritized open-issues lists
Support program milestones and physical builds with hardware, software, change notices, and alerts

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, or related)
2+ years of automotive engineering experience spanning early development through launch
General knowledge of vehicle systems, electronic/mechanical interfaces, and material properties/mass production processes
Practical experience with CATIA, DFMEA, DVP&R, and P-diagram
Ability to interpret 2D/3D CAD drawings and schematics
Experience interpreting hardware/software specifications and managing supplier deliverables
Demonstrated analytical skills with structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8Ds and 5-Whys
Proficiency in program management and release systems such as FEDE, JIRA, AIMS, and WERS
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
Strong communication, organization, cross-functional collaboration, and program management skills
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
Master’s degree in Engineering, Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification, electronic module design and release experience, switch and shifter experience, automotive PPAP knowledge, component testing experience, EMC knowledge, automotive software and CAN messaging knowledge, and AI tools knowledge are listed as additional or preferred qualifications

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
Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement and fertility treatments
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members
Management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service
Generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
Paid time off
Option to purchase additional vacation time