Job Description

The Design Release Engineer (DRE) for Restraints Systems is responsible for the complete engineering, design, development, validation, and production release of seatbelt and airbag systems. This role ensures all restraint components meet vehicle-level functional, safety, quality, cost, and timing objectives. The DRE leads full lifecycle ownership of assigned components—from concept through production launch and field support.

Key Responsibilities:

• Own and manage the design, development, and production release of seatbelt and airbag systems.

• Lead packaging and integration of restraint components within vehicle architecture to meet safety, ergonomic, and performance targets.

• Develop and maintain the Design Verification Plan & Report (DVPR), ensuring compliance with regulatory, internal, and customer validation requirements.

• Manage component design and CAD data in Teamcenter (or equivalent PLM systems), ensuring alignment with vehicle and system interfaces.

• Collaborate with suppliers, reviewing design proposals, DFMEAs, and validation results to meet program objectives.

• Maintain Bill of Material (BOM) accuracy throughout all program phases.

• Support prototype and production builds, track and resolve technical issues, and drive root cause analysis and corrective actions.

• Coordinate change management and implement design changes per program timing.

• Support vehicle assembly plants with product-related issues and provide technical assistance for field service and warranty investigations.

• Drive cost reduction, weight optimization, and quality improvement initiatives.

• Communicate program status, risks, and design issues to management and cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field.

• 3–5 years of experience in automotive restraints systems engineering, specifically seatbelt and airbag development.

• Strong understanding of FMVSS, ECE, NCAP, and global safety regulations related to occupant restraints.

• Experience in supplier management and working knowledge of design validation testing for airbags, pretensioners, load limiters, and related components.

• Proficiency with CAD tools (NX) and PLM systems (Teamcenter or equivalent).

• Demonstrated experience with DVPR creation, DFMEA, and DVP&R execution.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

• Familiarity with vehicle crash performance metrics and occupant safety integration preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Engineering or related field.

• Experience with restraint system suppliers (e.g., Autoliv, ZF, Joyson, TRW, Takata, Bosch, etc.).

• Knowledge of systems engineering methodologies and simulation tools for occupant safety.

• Prior experience in OEM vehicle programs from concept through launch.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.