Senior Project Engineer, Automotive Structures

Job Summary

The Senior Project Engineer – Automotive Structures is responsible for leading the design, development, and delivery of structural components and systems for automotive applications. This role ensures that projects meet performance, safety, cost, and timeline requirements while coordinating cross-functional teams across engineering, manufacturing, and suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automotive structural components (chassis, BIW, frames, subframes)

• Manage full project lifecycle from concept through production release

• Develop and review CAD models, drawings, and engineering documentation

• Perform structural analysis including strength, stiffness, fatigue, and durability

• Coordinate with CAE teams for simulation and validation activities

• Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations

• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure design for manufacturability (DFM)

• Manage project timelines, deliverables, and engineering changes

• Interface with suppliers for component development, sourcing, and validation

• Support prototype builds, testing, and issue resolution

• Drive cost optimization and weight reduction initiatives

• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership

Required Skills and Competencies

• Strong knowledge of automotive structures (chassis, BIW, crash structures)

• Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, NX)

• Experience with CAE tools (e.g., Abaqus, ANSYS, HyperMesh)

• Understanding of materials (steel, aluminum, composites) and joining methods

• Knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards

• Strong project management and problem-solving skills

• Experience with DFMEA, PFMEA, and design validation processes

• Familiarity with automotive regulations and safety standards

• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field

• 6–12 years of experience in automotive structural design and development

• Proven experience leading engineering projects

• Experience in OEM or Tier-1 automotive companies preferred