Body-in-White Design Release Engineer (Ann Arbor, MI, US, 48108)

Body-in-White Design Release Engineer

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is seeking a mechanical design engineer to support the development of next-generation body-in-white (BIW) closure systems (e.g., hood, side door, liftgate, tailgate, etc.) for North American Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles

The Team:

Closures Engineering Design is a collaborative and innovation-driven team at a leading automotive company. The Closures Engineering Design Team values open communication, continuous learning, and a hands-on approach. Additionally, the Closures Engineering Design Team fosters a culture where senior engineers guide less experienced colleagues, share knowledge freely, and work together to solve complex engineering challenges. The team is committed to delivering high-quality, safe, and reliable closure systems, encouraging creative problem-solving and ownership at all levels. As part of the Closures Engineering Design Team, one would work closely with a diverse group of designers, testers, and manufacturing engineers in an environment that rewards initiative, technical excellence, and professional growth.

The Position:

The Body-in-White Design Release Engineer would support design, release, validation, and continuous improvement efforts concerning closure structures for SUVs and body-on-frame trucks, collaborating with global engineering, studio design, manufacturing, testing, and supplier partners to deliver innovative, high-quality solutions from concept through production

What You Will Do:

Design and develop body closure systems, including side doors, hoods, trunk lids, tailgates, liftgates, hinges, sealing interfaces, and advanced closure technologies

Perform design-releasing duties for North American-based vehicle projects and manage system BOMs

Create and modify 3D data and 2D drawings via CATIA V5 and other engineering tools

Develop innovative engineering solutions to improve the cost, weight, performance, quality, durability, and manufacturing of body closure components

Identify and develop innovative solutions for future body-on-frame vehicle programs

Support vehicle testing, benchmarking, regulatory compliance, and product validation activities

Collaborate with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and Hyundai Motor Group affiliates in the U.S. and Korea to ensure successful program execution

Remain current with new technologies and best practices to drive innovation

Travel up to 20% of the time, both domestically and internationally South Korea: Travel for early development

North American Plants: Travel for pre-production build support

What You Will Bring to the Role:

Basic Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field

0–7 years of professional experience in BIW design and development

Familiarity with CAD and 3D design software CATIA V5 experience is preferred, but not required

Note: In-house training will be provided

Demonstrated problem-solving skills through coursework, internships, engineering projects, Formula SAE, Baja SAE, research, and/or professional experience

Ability to explain technical topics to both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Familiarity with Microsoft programs, such as Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word An ability to prepare reports/spreadsheets (when needed) to support project-related work

Excellent time management, self-management, and organization skills

Strong written, oral, and interpersonal skills

Flexibility with program and process changes. Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis may make late changes to satisfy customer needs.

Willingness to attend training sessions, workshops, or conferences to enhance skills and knowledge

Valid Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record

Preferred Qualifications: Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field

Knowledge of part and assembly datum schemes and dimensional tolerance application

What Hyundai Can Offer You:

Zero-dollar Employee Premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for You and Your Family

100% Employer-paid Disability and Life Insurance

Generous Paid Time Off, Including Vacation, Sick, and Abundant Holidays

Competitive Salaries

A Global Environment that Fosters Diversity

Retirement Savings and Planning Benefits

Vehicle Fuel Allowance

Vehicle Lease Allowance

Access to Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts

Flexible Work Hours

Other Details:

Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.