> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3376505-design-release-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3376505-design-release-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Design & Release Engineer - **Company:** EXCEL DELIVERY SYSTEMS - **Location:** Troy, MI, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $93,600.0 - $104,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Component-Based Software Engineering, Systems Engineering - **Published:** September 27, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=322130639a39eee9 ## About the Role We are seeking experienced Design & Release Engineers (DRE) with strong automotive cockpit and interior trim plastics experience. This role will lead the design, development, integration, and launch of cockpit trim components, including instrument panel doors, bins, glove boxes, finish trim, and related components., * Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field. * Master's degree is a plus. * 5+ years of automotive cockpit/interior system engineering experience. * Strong experience with cockpit and interior trim plastic design. * Experience with interior plastic materials and injection molding. * Experience with component development, tooling reviews, and supplier management. * Experience working with PLM systems and releasing components/engineering changes. * Knowledge of APQP and automotive product development processes. * Experience with FMVSS, NHTSA, IIHS, or other automotive regulatory requirements. * Strong understanding of packaging, interfaces, attachment methods, and joint design. * Ability to work effectively with cross-functional engineering and supplier teams. ## Description The engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams and suppliers to ensure components meet vehicle performance, quality, packaging, and regulatory requirements throughout the vehicle development lifecycle., * Lead the design, development, material selection, and launch of cockpit and interior trim components. * Support components such as instrument panel doors, bins, glove boxes, trim panels, and removable trim covers. * Ensure packaging compatibility, interface alignment, attachment, and system-level functionality. * Lead product development from concept through tooling, validation, and production launch. * Review tooling and manufacturing processes for plastic interior components. * Work with suppliers and internal engineering teams to identify and resolve design and packaging issues. * Ensure compatibility with adjacent systems, attaching hardware, and joint designs. * Define and integrate critical characteristics (CC/SC) with interfacing systems. * Support APQP activities and required engineering documentation. * Ensure components meet applicable vehicle performance, quality, and regulatory requirements. * Support engineering changes and component releases through PLM systems. * Participate in technical reviews, validation activities, and launch support. ## Related Videos - [Model Based Systems Engineering in an Agile Product Development Process](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/68-model-based-systems-engineering-in-an-agile-product-development-process) - [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch) - [Is Flutter ready for the web yet? - A live coding comparison between Flutter and React](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/401-is-flutter-ready-for-the-web-yet-a-live-coding-comparison-between-flutter-and-react) - [Automated Driving - Why is it so hard to introduce](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/628-automated-driving-why-is-it-so-hard-to-introduce) - [Agile work at CARIAD – Creating a customer web application for controlling the vehicle ](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/200-agile-work-at-cariad-creating-a-customer-web-application-for-controlling-the-vehicle) - [Breaking the Hardware Mindset: Overcoming Barriers to System-Level Innovation](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1635-breaking-the-hardware-mindset-overcoming-barriers-to-system-level-innovation) ## Related Articles - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [Are design and development really just the same thing?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/520-are-design-and-development-really-just-the-same-thing) - [Now is the time for industrialized software development](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/601-now-is-the-time-for-industrialized-software-development) - [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs) - [16 Best Free React UI Libraries in 2025](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/148-16-best-free-react-ui-libraries-in-2025) - [Frontend Developer Salary in Germany [2023]](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/195-frontend-developer-salary-in-germany-2023)