DRE Base Engine (Mid Level)

Position Summary

The Base Engine Design Release Engineer (DRE) is responsible for the component- and system-level design, release, development, and validation of long-block and short-block base engine hardware (e.g., block, head, crank, bearings, pistons, valvetrain, and structural covers) across internal combustion and hybrid propulsion platforms.

This role spans the complete product lifecycle—from early concept development through prototype builds, supplier management, assembly plant launch, and post-launch warranty continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Product Release Lead the mechanical design, CAD evaluation (NX/CATIA), 2D drawing creation, and GD&T definition for base engine components and surrounding interface brackets. Manage engineering change management processes, including Change Notices (CN), Bill of Materials (BOM) updates, part number generation, and Teamcenter lifecycle workflows.

Author and submit Source Packages on time to support purchasing and supplier sourcing plans. Quality & Risk Management Lead and maintain Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) and coordinate with suppliers on Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA). Execute Design Verification Plans and Reports (DVP&R), authoring test requests and analyzing component and engine-level validation data to verify design requirements.

Conduct root cause analysis on prototype build issues, plant assembly issues, and field warranty returns (using GIMS/C1000 metrics). Supplier & Assembly Integration Direct Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers on hardware design, Tool Kick-Off (TKO), and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) milestones. Support prototype builds, engine plant pilot/pre-series events, and vehicle assembly launch gates on-site.

Provide technical service support by authoring updates for Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) and service procedures.

Required Qualifications Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Mechatronics, or an ABET-accredited equivalent. Experience: 1–3+ years of engineering design and development experience in internal combustion engine components, thermodynamics, or automotive propulsion systems.

Technical Skills: Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and 2D draft creation using NX or CATIA V5. Working knowledge of PLM/PDM systems (e.g., Teamcenter). Functional understanding of DFMEA, DVP&R, GD&T, and engineering change control. Soft Skills: Excellent technical communication, cross-functional project management, and structured problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with base engine hardware (crankshafts, bearings, cylinder blocks/heads, or valvetrain components). Certification in Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) Green Belt / Black Belt or Reactive Problem Solving. Hands-on experience with engine manufacturing processes, casting/machining methods, and assembly plant launch support.