Lead Engineer – Automotive Design (CAD)
Ford Motor Company
As a Lead Engineer, you will play a key role in the product development lifecycle, working on systems and sub-systems across automotive interior and exterior domains such as instrument panels, door trims, fascias, and functional trims.
You will lead or mentor a small team of designers while ensuring that all CAD outputs meet engineering standards, quality benchmarks, and programme timelines. This role requires strong expertise in CATIA (V5/V6), digital assembly processes, and product lifecycle management tools.
- Lead or support systems-level design activities for automotive components
- Develop CAD models using CATIA V5/V6 in line with engineering standards
- Deliver designs aligned with programme timelines and quality requirements
- Perform digital pre-assembly and ensure Bill of Materials (BOM) accuracy
- Conduct static and dynamic clearance analysis
- Ensure alignment between CAD models and BOM data
- Implement design improvements based on analysis (CAE/CFD/testing inputs)
- Apply plastic component design and manufacturing principles
- Manage CAD lifecycle using PLM tools (e.g., Teamcenter or 3DEXPERIENCE)
- Participate in design reviews and cross-functional collaboration
- Drive efficiency improvements and innovation initiatives
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Automotive Engineering, or related field
Experience
- 6+ years of experience in automotive product design
- Strong experience in CAD design using CATIA V5/V6
- Exposure to automotive interior or exterior systems
Technical Skills
- Expertise in CAD tools (CATIA V5/V6)
- Experience with PLM tools (Teamcenter or 3DX)
- Knowledge of digital assembly and BOM management
- Familiarity with CAE/CFD-driven design inputs
- Understanding of design for manufacturing (especially plastics)
- Knowledge of engineering quality tools (FMEA, Six Sigma)
- Awareness of product development processes and milestones
Soft Skills
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Ability to work independently and lead small teams
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking