The Role
As a Design Release Engineer (DRE) for Active Thermal Hardware, you will lead the design, development, validation, and release of thermal management components and subsystems. This includes heat exchangers, cooling fans, shrouds, compressors, sensors, and associated hardware. You will collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams and suppliers to ensure robust, cost-effective, and timely delivery of components that meet vehicle performance and integration requirements. Specific subsystem performance responsibilities include impacts to coolant and refrigerant loop performance.
This role requires a high level of technical expertise, independent judgment, and leadership in managing complex engineering projects. You will be expected to drive innovation, resolve technical challenges, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across programs.
What You'll do:
- Lead product development activities for thermal components and subsystems.
- Develop and release components to meet hardware requirements, Statement of Requirements (SOR), Component Technical Specifications (CTS), Subsystem Technical Specifications (SSTS), and System of Requirements (SOR).
- Conduct design studies, alternative analyses, and recommend direction based on cost, performance, mass, timing, and manufacturability.
- Define Interface Control Document (ICD) requirements and negotiate with interfacing components and software.
- Manage supplier relationships and ensure timely execution of deliverables.
- Coordinate cross-functional activities with Purchasing, Supplier Quality, Validation, Calibration, Manufacturing, and Design teams.
- Support and lead Product Development Team (PDT) meetings and peer reviews.
- Ensures complete validation of released components and establishment of a validation plan.
- Validate designs using analytical tools (e.g., FEA, CFD, modal analysis, virtual builds).
- Ensure compliance with GM standards, best practices, and program imperatives.
- Lead problem-solving efforts for production and launch issues (PRTS).
- Translate lessons learned into best practices and apply them in future designs.
- Stay abreast of emerging technologies and support test and development programs.
Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Thermal Engineering.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in component or subsystem design and release.
- Strong understanding of thermal systems, HVAC, and fluid handling components.
- Proficiency in CAD (UGNX preferred), Teamcenter, and engineering analysis tools.
- Experience with validation planning and execution.
- Strong communication and project management skills.
- Ability to travel (up to 20%) and legally operate a motor vehicle.
Preferred Certifications
- DFSS Green Belt Certification (Black Belt preferred)
- Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) training
- FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) training or certification
- DRBFM (Design Review Based on Failure Mode) training
- CAD/CAE Tool Proficiency Certification (UGNX preferred)
- Thermal Systems Engineering Fundamentals Certification
What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
- Prior GM experience with thermal or HVAC components.
- Familiarity with GM tools and processes (ECM, PRTS, ECR, TWO, VDP, GD&T).
- Experience with DRBFM, DFMEA, PFMEA, and GM Quality Chain.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes and vehicle integration.
- Experience leading cross-functional teams and supplier management.
- Familiarity with GM program timing system and VDP deliverables.
- GM development, validation, and release experience.
- Knowledge of GM test procedures and practices.
- Working knowledge of ECR, TWO, ETO, PTR, CMC, GD&T, and PRTS processes and systems.
