Design Release Engineer
Headquarters & Technology Center - Auburn Hills
- Manufacturing
- Full-time
- Design Release Engineer
- plastic components
- automotive seating
The Design Release Engineer is responsible for leading the design, development, and release of plastic components for automotive seating systems, ensuring they meet performance, cost, and timing targets. This role requires expertise in plastics engineering, tooling, manufacturing processes, and close collaboration with suppliers and cross-functional teams. The engineer also manages change control, supports program delivery, and ensures regulatory and quality compliance throughout the product lifecycle.
We are looking for a Design Release Engineer (DRE) with deep expertise in plastic components for automotive seating systems. This role will be responsible for the design, development, and release of plastic components within the seat system, ensuring compliance with performance, cost, and timing objectives. The ideal candidate will have strong technical knowledge of plastics engineering, tooling, and manufacturing processes, and will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams and suppliers.
Key Responsibilities:
- Component Ownership:
- Lead design and release of plastic components for seat systems (e.g., side shields, backs, trim covers, recliner covers)
- Ensure designs meet functional, aesthetic, durability, and regulatory requirements
- Engineering Execution:
- Lead the design & development activities according to Stellantis design practices
- Manage change control through CN/PLM systems
- Supplier Interface:
- Work closely with suppliers on tooling feasibility, material selection, and manufacturing processes
- Support DFMEA, DVP&R activities with suppliers
- Program Delivery:
- Track and meet program timing, cost, and quality targets
- Resolve technical issues promptly and escalate risks as needed
- Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Coordinate with structures, foam, trim, and JIT teams to ensure seamless integration of plastic components
- Support launch readiness and plant build events
Our Benefits - Designed with You in Mind
Comprehensive Health & Well-being Coverage
From your very first day, you’ll have access to medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage - ensuring you and your family stay healthy and protected.
Generous Paid Time Off
We believe in work-life balance. That’s why we offer: 17+ paid holidays, including shut-down from December 24th through New Years Day every year. Vacation, float & wellbeing days, sick time and fully paid parental leave when your family needs you most.
Competitive Retirement Savings Plans
We help you plan for the future with:
- An employer match on contributions to your 401k, Roth, and Catch-Up plans
- An employer contribution, even if you don’t contribute
Income Protection & Insurance Options
Benefit from included and optional disability, life, and other insurance programs - because your peace of mind matters.
Company Vehicle Lease Program
Eligible employees and their immediate families can enjoy company vehicle lease options with included insurance, maintenance, and unlimited mileage. Plus, take advantage of exclusive discounts on Stellantis products.
Family Building Benefit
We proudly support all paths to parenthood- including fertility and infertility treatments, adoption services, and gestational surrogacy.
Support for Your Growth and Giving Back
We believe in investing in your future and your passions:
- Tuition reimbursement
- Student loan refinancing programs
- 18 paid volunteer hours each year to make a difference in your community
And so much more!
When you join us, you’re not just building a career - you’re joining a company that supports you, inside and outside of work.




