Body-in-White Design Release Engineer

About the Role

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is seeking a mechanical design engineer to support the development of next-generation body-in-white (BIW) closure systems for North American Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop body closure systems, including side doors, hoods, trunk lids, tailgates, liftgates, hinges, sealing interfaces, and advanced closure technologies.
• Perform design-releasing duties for North American-based vehicle projects and manage system BOMs.
• Create and modify 3D data and 2D drawings via CATIA V5 and other engineering tools.
• Develop innovative engineering solutions to improve the cost, weight, performance, quality, durability, and manufacturing of body closure components.
• Identify and develop innovative solutions for future body-on-frame vehicle programs.
• Support vehicle testing, benchmarking, regulatory compliance, and product validation activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and Hyundai Motor Group affiliates in the U.S. and Korea to ensure successful program execution.
• Remain current with new technologies and best practices to drive innovation.
• Travel up to 20% of the time, both domestically and internationally.
• Travel for early development to South Korea.
• Travel for pre-production build support at North American Plants.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field.
• 0–7 years of professional experience in BIW design and development.
• Familiarity with CAD and 3D design software.
• CATIA V5 experience is preferred, but not required.
• In-house training will be provided.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills through coursework, internships, engineering projects, Formula SAE, Baja SAE, research, and/or professional experience.
• Ability to explain technical topics to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Familiarity with Microsoft programs, such as Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word.
• An ability to prepare reports/spreadsheets (when needed) to support project-related work.
• Excellent time management, self-management, and organization skills.
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility with program and process changes.
• Willingness to attend training sessions, workshops, or conferences to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Valid Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field.
• Knowledge of part and assembly datum schemes and dimensional tolerance application.