Design Release Engineer

About the Role

Support the production design release, component sourcing, and launch of internal combustion engine cylinder blocks and structural hardware. Contribute to root-cause analysis and containment of warranty issues, manage engineering changes, and drive improvements in manufacturing quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate and execute technical solutions for engine cylinder blocks supporting GM propulsion programs.
• Contribute to advanced component and technology development activities.
• Perform design analyses and evaluate engineering designs.
• Work cross-functionally to implement cost reductions, process improvements, and product enhancements while supporting prototype and production builds.
• Balance business priorities, including cost, mass, complexity, quality, and timing.
• Manage engineering changes and support timely release, PPAP, and implementation at plants and suppliers.
• Collaborate with casting, machining, powder metal and gasket suppliers to improve manufacturing quality and reduce defects.
• Conduct supplier process audits and capability studies, and drive corrective actions for nonconformances.
• Support validation of running changes on dyno and vehicle programs while ensuring compliance with GM specifications and standards.
• Lead or support root-cause analysis for field and warranty issues, and develop and implement containment and corrective actions.
• Communicate status, risks, and issue-resolution plans to leadership, manufacturing, quality, and cross-functional program teams.
• Stay current on relevant technologies and competitive products.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 2+ years of experience in automotive component release, quality, manufacturing, or a related engineering discipline; powertrain experience is preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with engineering change management and supplier quality processes.
• Ability to collaborate with and influence cross-functional teams and suppliers to drive improvements in quality, timing, and cost.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to create concise technical reports and communicate with stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for supplier and plant support as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with engine cylinder blocks or cylinder heads.
• Experience with casting and machining processes.
• Knowledge of PPAP, APQP, automotive quality standards, and related requirements.
• Familiarity with DFMEA and structured problem-solving methodologies, such as Red X, DFSS, and fishbone analysis.
• Experience with Teamcenter or similar PLM tools for part release, BOM management, and drawing control.
• Strong understanding of GD&T and tolerance analysis for cast, machined, forged and stamped components.
• Familiarity with CAE and/or CFD methods and tools.