Sub-system Technical Lead for Seats
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.
Auburn Hills, United States of America
3 days ago
Role details
Contract type
Permanent contract Employment type
Full-time (> 32 hours) Working hours
Regular working hours Languages
English, Spanish Experience level
SeniorJob location
Auburn Hills, United States of America
Tech stack
Computer-Aided Design
Systems Engineering
Data Integrity
Failure Mode Effects Analysis
Microsoft Office
Software Architecture
Software Requirements Analysis
Subsystems
Teamcenter (Software)
Job description
- Lead the development and integration of seating systems from concept through launch and into production and service lifecycle.
- Own delivery of all program milestones, ensuring alignment to C/W/I targets, KPIs, and timing commitments.
- Provide technical leadership and program direction to cross-functional teams, including Design Release Engineers (DREs) and suppliers, influencing without direct authority.
- Act as the single point of contact for all seat system activities across the program.
- Drive concept development including benchmarking, architecture definition, packaging, and early feasibility.
- Lead sourcing and supplier engagement, including supplier selection, design maturation, and tooling kickoff.
- Ensure robust execution of engineering processes including DFMEA, DVP&R, Product Assurance Plans (PAP), and validation activities.
- Own and manage requirements definition and change management (DCR, CN, ODM, CCD) to maintain alignment with product planning and program objectives.
- Maintain ownership of engineering deliverables, including CAD (NX), Teamcenter data integrity, EBOM/CODEP, and documentation.
- Lead issue identification, root cause analysis, and resolution, ensuring timely closure using formal processes (e.g., GIMS).
- Support prototype, pre-production, and launch activities onsite as the seat system representative; lead issue triage during launch.
- Drive value optimization and cost efficiency initiatives, including teardown studies, supplier collaboration, and internal processes (ILO).
- Monitor and communicate program health, risks, and status to senior leadership through clear, data-driven updates.
- Own post-launch warranty performance and lead continuous improvement actions to meet quality and customer satisfaction targets.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum 8 years of engineering experience, including automotive interiors or seating systems (OEM or Tier 1).
- Demonstrated success in technical program leadership and milestone delivery.
- Strong leadership capability with the ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
- Experience with DFMEA, DVP&R, product development processes, and change management systems.
- Proven ability to manage supplier relationships and co-development activities.
- Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, including engagement with senior leadership.
- Ability to manage multiple concurrent programs and competing priorities.
- Working knowledge of manufacturing processes (e.g., stamping, welding, foam, trim, assembly).
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
- Willingness to travel to suppliers and assembly plants (domestic and international) as required., * Master's degree in Mechanical, Automotive, or Electrical Engineering.
- Deep expertise in automotive seating systems and components.
- DFSS Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
- Formal training in structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., Shainin, Red X, Six Sigma).
- Strong GD&T proficiency.
- Experience with UG NX and Teamcenter PLM systems.
- Familiarity with Stellantis engineering systems, processes, and product architecture.
- Experience with cost engineering, value optimization, and investment planning.
- Understanding of ergonomics, comfort, and occupant safety requirements.
- Multilingual capability (e.g., Spanish) is a plus.