Accessory Product Development Engineer
JOB SUMMARY
Are you an Engineer with a passion for automotive, vehicles, and/or transportation?
As an Accessory Product Development Engineer, you'll lead the engineering development and launch of automotive accessories. Reporting to the Sr. Manager of Accessory Product Engineering, you'll work with teams across Demand & Supply, Quality, Operations, Sourcing, and third-party suppliers. You'll manage projects from concept through development, including PPAP and launch, using your expertise in industry standards, vehicle integration, and manufacturing processes.
You'll also support cost, quality, installation, and performance targets while driving continuous improvement through VA/VE and lean initiatives. This includes BOM and configuration management, design for manufacturability, and packaging support during launches.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- On-site presence is required (including participation in meetings and presentations)
- Serve as subject matter expert in mechanical and/or electrical automotive accessories
- Manage Stage-Gate process across the development cycle
- Create DFMEA and DVP&R documents per industry and internal standards, including FMVSS, DOT, etc.
- Develop and maintain BOM for vehicle models and accessories
- Ensure BOM accuracy, configuration control, and accessory weight tracking throughout lifecycle
- Use VA/VE to reduce costs and improve performance
- Solve problems using structured root cause analysis; document and integrate lessons learned
- Support new vehicle launches and model year transitions
- Collaborate with Quality and Sourcing to evaluate and manage suppliers
- Contribute to improving accessory development processes
- Monitor field performance and warranty feedback
- Assist in optimizing accessory portfolio direction
- Coordinate with Operational teams for accessory installation readiness
- Comply with all data privacy and consumer information handling guidelines
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree - Automotive, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering preferred
- Passion for automotive components, upgrades, and refurbishment
- 1-5 years of experience of professional experience within Design Engineering of components (OEM or Tier 1/2)
- Skilled in DFMEA/FMEA, PPAP, and CAD (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, CATIA)
- Familiar with manufacturing processes and automotive validation/testing standards (IATF 16949, AEC-Q100/200)
- Strong communication skills across diverse teams
- Display problem-solving and technical analysis ability
- Valid driver's license
- ASQ/SAE or similar certification is a plus
COMPLIANCE
Must adhere to applicable internal policies and relevant state/federal regulations, including EPA, OSHA, and health/safety laws.
REASONING ABILITY
Able to follow clear written and oral instructions and solve simple, standardized problems with minimal variables.