Design & Release Engineer (DRE) - Interior Trim Plastics

Role details

Job details

Posted 28 September 2026

Salary Market related

LocationTroy

Job type Contract

Discipline Interior & Exterior Systems

Reference125273

Job description

Position: Design & Release Engineer (DRE) - Interior Trim Plastics

Sector: Interior & Exterior Systems

Location: Troy Michigan, 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 Design & Release Engineer (DRE) - Interior Trim Plastics to join their expanding team on a Contract basis. The role will be located in Troy Michigan, USA.

Job Description

• Our Client is looking for a dynamic, experienced DRE – Interior Trim Plastics to join their growing team.
• This role will be responsible for leading the design, development, and integration of cockpit trim components including IP doors, bins, and finish trim for the Clients’ vehicles, ensuring that cockpit trim target performance and features, as well as FMVSS requirements, are met.
• The individual will be responsible for understanding the vehicle’s technical specifications and performance targets.
• Utilizing the APQP process and supporting documentation, this position will ensure Client quality, performance, and regulatory objectives are achieved and sustained throughout the vehicle lifecycle.

What You Get To Do

• Lead design, development, material selection and launch of cockpit system components (bins, trims, glove box, IP door panels and more)
• Ensure packaging compatibility, interface alignment, and system level functionality.
• Lead product development, material selection, tooling reviews and launch of new components from concept to launch
• Conduct supplier and internal technical reviews to ensure packaging and design issues are addressed/resolved.
• Work with affected teams to ensure that plastic trim components (like removable trim covers, bin doors, bins more) are properly accommodated by the Cockpit system.
• Ensure compatibility with interfacing systems and components, including attaching hardware and joint design.
• Define and integrate critical characteristics (CC/SC) with adjacent systems.
• Deliver products to meet quality and reliability requirements and arrive on time for program milestones, with all necessary PPAP documentation
• Lead Design and Component Integration reviews for each component / system at required milestones.
• Engage with Accessories, Body, Restraints, Design, Manufacturing, Safety, Vehicle Integration (NVH, Vehicle Dynamics), and Vehicle Evaluation and Verification to deliver robust IP Trim Plastics to production that meet vehicle level performance and component requirements.
• Ensure validation of the cockpit systems, reviewing test loads, set ups, reports, and results for both internal and external testing.
• Support prototype builds, DV/PV and launch readiness

What You Bring To The Team

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field is required. Master's degree is preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in automotive Cockpit System engineering.
• Applications-specific experience in at least 3 of the following areas / components:
• Cockpit complete FMVSS, IIHS and other 3rd party rating validation.
• Cockpit and trim plastic design.
• Interior trim plastic materials and injection molding
• Experience working within a PLM and releasing components and processing engineering changes.
• Functional experience with all NHTSA / FMVSS, CARB, EPA, FCC, or other regulatory requirements.
• Ability to lead teams and meetings through technical trade-offs and optimized solutions with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve common goals.
• Highly adaptable and proactive, excelling in fast-paced start-up and new model launch environments.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Work Authorization Requirement

• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis.
• Our Client is 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.

If you know anyone that is suitable for the role, please visit the below page where we offer up to $750 referral fee: https://www.contechs.com/refer