Product Engineer, Variable Steering Applications I

The Design & Release Steering Engineer is responsible for the design, development, validation, and release of parts for assigned programs. The D&R is also responsible for identifying and implementing design improvements to enhance quality, optimize cost, and reduce weight. The Steering D&R must design parts in compliance with Corporate and Local Requirements for parts validation, considering the WCR (Worldwide Customer Requirements), ES (Engineering Specification), SDS (System Design Specification), and Manufacturing and Assembly requirements. The engineer is also responsible for supporting steering components integration and launch at the Assembly Plants.The Steering D&R is responsible for evaluating supplier-requested engineering changes to ensure they do not negatively impact manufacturing and assembly processes. The engineer is also responsible for identifying design-related issues (DTCs), defining solutions, and preventing their recurrence.

Product Development Expertise:

• Demonstrated ability to apply Ford's steering development process, including GPDS (Global Product Development System) principles.
• Experience in the full product lifecycle: developing, testing, and releasing a range of steering components (e.g., I-shafts, mechanical steering gears, steering columns,
• EPAS HW, SW & cals) for car and/or truck vehicle programs.
• Proficiency in complying with program cost, weight, quality, performance, and timing targets.
• Ability to define and verify engineering prototype requirements at the part level.
• Releasing parts in FEDEBOM and WERS throughout the product lifecycle.
• Ability to support and manage the Change Control Process.
• Experience auditing and updating BOM (Bill of Material) with correct part levels and usage for prototype builds and maintaining it post Job 1.
• Capability to monitor production quality and lead quality improvement actions based on warranty findings in steering components.
• Strong skills in warranty analysis, root cause identification, containment, preventive actions, and supplier tracking.
• Proven track record of identifying, developing, validating, and implementing cost reduction actions.
• Awareness of Worldwide Engineering changes and the ability to proceed accordingly.
   

Engineering Process & Quality Tools:

• Strong understanding and application of Robustness Engineering Disciplines (Failure Mode Avoidance).
• Knowledge and practical application of Six Sigma methodologies and 8D problem-solving.
• Proficiency in following the TDR (Technical Design Review) process.
• Capability to identify required validation, durability, and functional tests as per SDS (System Design Specification), WCR (Worldwide Customer Requirements), and ES (Engineering Specification), utilizing tools like DVP (Design Validation Plan) and FEDE.
• Experience with AIMS and VVT resolution, including launch issues.
• Ability to manage PDL (Product Development Letter) revisions.
• Support various quality reviews and production trials (VQR's, VRT's, PVT).
   

Supplier & Manufacturing Collaboration:

• Experience in developing ESOW (Engineering Statement of Work) and actively participating in the Sourcing Process (SA, ED&T review, piece and tooling cost review, and CPA).
• Ability to support parts implementation and sign-off at assembly plants, and provide assistance with quality issues across all program milestones.
• Capability to identify potential suppliers for localization initiatives, in collaboration with purchasing.
• Experience providing technical assistance to suppliers through the Supplier Engagement Process, jointly with STA.
• Responsible for supporting global steering teams, including tracking actions, manufacturing facility visits, and GPDS phase support for suppliers (e.g., those located in Mexico).
   

• High-level English proficiency (written and verbal).
• Proficiency with Product Development tools such as FEDEBOM, SAP, APICS, or similar systems.
• Experience with Web-based issue tracking systems, including AIMS.
• Familiarity with change management systems like WERS (UNIX mainframe terminal) or SAP.
• Functional and experienced working knowledge of TeamCenter.
• Basic working knowledge of CATIA.
• Basic programming knowledge in MATLAB.
• Basic knowledge of Quality tools including APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plan, and MSA.
• Experience with data analysis tools such as Minitab.
• Knowledge of materials properties.
• Knowledge of production processes, including foundry, die casting, stamping, machining, forming, and assembly.
• Understanding of GPDS and APQP processes.
• Understanding of Robustness Engineering Disciplines.
• Proficient analytical capabilities.
• Strong understanding of the automotive industry environment.
• Basic 3D CAD knowledge, with CATIA experience preferred.
• Familiarity with the Change Control Process.
• Familiar with CAN in vehicle communication protocol.  
• Proficiency in problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 8D, 5D, root cause analysis).
• Basic understanding of Six Sigma methodology.