Senior Engineer Restraint System - Steering Wheels

Position:   Senior Engineer Restraint System – Steering Wheels Sector: Interior & Exterior SystemsLocation:  Newark, CA or Southfield, MI USA *Applicants MUST have proof of immediate, on-going and valid eligibility to work full time in the United States* About the company My client is an innovative American automotive manufacturer focused on redefining affordable electric mobility. They are developing a new generation of purpose-built electric vehicles with an emphasis on simplicity, modular design, and customer customisation. They are looking for a Senior Engineer Restraint System – Steering Wheels to join their expanding team on a Contract basis. The role will be based in Newark, CA or Southfield, MI. Job Description:
Our Client are currently seeking a Senior Engineer, Restraint System – Steering Wheels.This position requires an excellent understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals and prior experience in automotive engineering.The ideal candidate demonstrates strong problem-solving skills, ownership, technical curiosity, and a desire to work in a fast-paced product development environmentThis is a unique opportunity to own steering wheel development from concept through production while partnering with design, engineering, safety, and supplier teams to deliver innovative solutions that enhance vehicle safety, quality, and user experience.
 The Role:
Perform the design release of steering wheels across the whole product lifetime: from system specification development, sourcing, packaging, drawing release, design validation to ramp up, manufacturing support to post SOP maintenanceWork closely with the Design Studio, Attributes (e.g. NVH, UX), Digital, and Interior engineering teams to develop the optimal solutions to fulfil the required features with the best balance of mass and cost.Manage Tier 1 suppliers for both engineering development and program timing. Function as the main point of contact for all supplier interfaces.Support restraint system integration work. Work closely with CAE team to provide design inputs and utilize CAE results to optimize the component design.Support crash tests and vehicle homologation. Make sure parts are supplied with right pedigrees for all crash test vehicles and other vehicle level validation and homologation needs.Drive engineering ownership through all phases of development, from concept through production launch and ongoing support.
 Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.5+ years of automotive product development experience, preferably with steering wheels, restraint systems, interior systems, automotive mechatronics, or related components.Experience supporting at least one product or vehicle program through the complete development lifecycle from concept through production launch.Strong understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals, including:
Mechanics of materialsMaterial properties and material selectionKinematicsFailure analysis and root cause investigationApplication of engineering fundamentals to solve technical challenges
Knowledge of metal forming, stamping, and plastic injection molding processes, including associated design rules.Experience using GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis (ASME or ISO standards).Basic understanding of electronics and automotive networking.CAD proficiency with the ability to review packaging, check interfaces, and make engineering modifications as needed.Demonstrated ability to manage suppliers, drive technical solutions, and ensure timely delivery of engineering deliverables.Strong written and verbal communication skills.
 Business Travel:
Less than 10%; some testing may occur in other regions of the U.S., Mexico, or globally.
 Work Authorization Requirement:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis.Our Client are unable to offer visa sponsorship at this time.
 Why work through Contechs? Contechs is a strategic partner to the automotive industry, providing innovative design and engineering services to global OEMs, from concept to production.  We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. Employment is at will and may be terminated by either party at any time. We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Please contact us if you need assistance in the application process How to Apply If you're interested in applying for this position, submit your application and one of our recruiters will be in touch.