Design Systems Engineer – Engines

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Systems Engineer – Engines

Company: Stellantis

Location: Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering (Propulsion Systems/Engine Design)

Date Posted: September 01, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Coordinate the technical aspects of base engine design, ensuring alignment with customer requirements, functional objectives, and quality targets, with a strong emphasis on engine design and validation.

• Serve as a critical approver for all technical decisions, timing plans, change notifications (CN’s), bulletins, engine build books, and service manuals, demonstrating a deep understanding of product development lifecycles.

• Lead global cross-functional teams from various departments, including Release Engineers (DREs) and designers, through root cause analysis of issues and implementation of robust solutions, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

• Drive cost reduction initiatives, including supplier resourcing risk assessments, to optimize manufacturing efficiency and product profitability within the automotive manufacturing sector.

• Ensure adherence to the Stellantis Propulsion System Development Process (PDSP), summarizing technical inputs for recommendation and presentation to executive leadership, highlighting strategic decision-making capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is clearly within the automotive engineering domain, specifically focusing on the design and development of internal combustion engines. The emphasis on "Design Systems" suggests a holistic approach to managing the technical integrity and development process of engine systems, rather than isolated component engineering. The "10+ Years" experience level indicates a senior or lead engineering position requiring significant technical depth and leadership.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute and ensure compliance with the Stellantis Propulsion System Development Process (PDSP) for assigned engine programs, including the summarization of all technical inputs for executive leadership review.

• Provide critical approval for technical decisions, timing plans, change notifications (CN’s), bulletins, engine build books, and service manuals to maintain technical accuracy and program integrity.

• Oversee the approval and execution of the complete engine mechanical development and validation plan across all project phases, ensuring rigorous testing and performance verification.

• Act as the primary company point of contact for all engine-related issues on assigned projects, facilitating communication and problem resolution.

• Lead global cross-functional teams through complex technical challenges, employing systematic root cause analysis and implementing effective, sustainable solutions.

• Guide Release Engineers (DREs) and designers within the engine team to meet program objectives concerning cost, weight, performance, quality, manufacturing feasibility, and timing.

• Spearhead cost reduction initiatives, including thorough supplier resourcing risk assessments, to enhance product competitiveness and profitability.

• Maintain accountability for successfully achieving all project commitments and deliverables within scope, budget, and timeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a project management and technical leadership focus within engine development. The emphasis on PDSP compliance, critical approvals, and leading cross-functional teams points to a role that requires strong process adherence and collaborative problem-solving skills, typical of senior engineering roles in large automotive organizations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related technical field.

• A Master's Degree in Engineering is preferred, indicating a strong preference for advanced technical knowledge and research capabilities. Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of direct experience in propulsion system engineering, calibration, or a closely related technical discipline.

• Demonstrated understanding and application of phased-gated product development launch processes within an automotive or complex manufacturing environment. Required Skills:

• Propulsion System Engineering: Deep understanding of engine mechanics, thermodynamics, and system integration.

• Engine Design & Validation: Proven experience in designing, developing, and validating engine components and systems.

• Cross-functional Team Leadership: Ability to effectively lead and motivate diverse teams across engineering disciplines and departments.

• Root Cause Analysis: Expertise in methodologies for identifying and resolving complex technical issues.

• Project Management: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple complex assignments simultaneously, adhering to timelines and objectives.

• Technical Decision Making: Capacity to make critical, informed decisions regarding engine design and development.

• Executive Communication & Presentation: Demonstrated ability to prepare and deliver clear, concise, and impactful presentations to senior leadership.

• PDSP Compliance: Thorough knowledge of and adherence to the Stellantis Propulsion System Development Process.

• Mechanical/Electrical Engineering Fundamentals: Solid grasp of core engineering principles relevant to engine systems.

Preferred Skills:

• Release Engineering: Familiarity with the role and responsibilities of Release Engineers in product development.

• Cost Reduction Strategies: Experience in identifying and implementing cost-saving measures in product design and manufacturing.

• Supplier Risk Assessment: Ability to evaluate and mitigate risks associated with supplier performance and resourcing.

• Automotive Product Development: In-depth knowledge of the automotive product development lifecycle and associated processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+ Years" AI-derived experience level aligns with the "Minimum 8 years" requirement, suggesting that candidates with closer to 10-12 years of experience will be most competitive. The emphasis on both "Mechanical" and "Electrical" Engineering reflects the multi-disciplinary nature of modern engine systems.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Engine System Design Case Studies: Detailed examples of base engine designs you have contributed to or led, showcasing your approach to meeting performance, efficiency, and durability targets.

• Validation Plan Execution: Documentation illustrating your experience in developing and executing comprehensive engine validation plans, including testing methodologies and data analysis.

• Process Compliance Documentation: Evidence of adherence to structured development processes like PDSP, demonstrating your ability to follow and contribute to established engineering workflows.

• Problem-Solving Frameworks: Examples of how you have applied structured methodologies (e.g., 8D, DMAIC) for root cause analysis and problem resolution in complex engine development scenarios.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase instances where you've designed or optimized engineering workflows for engine development, improving efficiency and reducing lead times.

• Implementation & Automation: Provide examples of how you've implemented new engineering tools, processes, or automation techniques within an engine development context.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate your ability to define key performance indicators (KPIs) for engine development projects and analyze data to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated in the raw job description, a "Design Systems Engineer" role at this level typically requires a portfolio that demonstrates not just technical competence, but also the ability to manage complex processes and systems. This section infers typical expectations for such a role in the automotive industry.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Design Systems Engineers with 10+ years of experience in the automotive sector in the Auburn Hills, Michigan area, the estimated salary range is $130,000 - $180,000 annually. This estimate considers the senior nature of the role, the specialized technical expertise required, and the cost of living in the Detroit metropolitan area. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) plan with company matching contributions.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.

• Employee Vehicle Programs: Potential access to employee discounts on Stellantis vehicles and related services.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning, training, and advanced degree support.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Company-provided life insurance and long-term disability coverage.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours per week. Some flexibility may be available, but the role is primarily on-site, requiring consistent presence for team collaboration and project execution. Overtime may be required during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on general market data for senior engineering roles in the automotive industry in Michigan. Stellantis, as a major automotive manufacturer, is expected to offer a competitive benefits package.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing. Stellantis is a global automotive group formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, operating a diverse portfolio of brands and producing a wide range of vehicles. This industry demands innovation, efficiency, and a commitment to quality and safety.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (over 10,000 employees). This size implies structured processes, extensive resources, and opportunities for specialized career paths within a global organization.

Founded: January 2021 (Stellantis). While the company is relatively new as a merged entity, its constituent companies (FCA and PSA) have long histories in automotive engineering and manufacturing, bringing a wealth of experience and established practices.

Team Structure:

• Engine Development Team: Likely comprises specialized engineers focusing on various aspects of engine design, calibration, validation, and manufacturing integration.

• Reporting Structure: The Design Systems Engineer will likely report to an Engineering Manager or Director overseeing propulsion systems development, with direct interaction and leadership of Design Release Engineers (DREs) and designers.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Close collaboration with teams in areas such as powertrain integration, vehicle dynamics, manufacturing engineering, supply chain management, and quality assurance is essential.

Methodology:

• Propulsion System Development Process (PDSP): A structured, phased-gated approach to product development, ensuring rigorous review and decision-making at each stage.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using test data, simulation results, and performance metrics to inform design choices and problem-solving.

• Agile Principles (Potentially): While traditional automotive development is phased-gated, elements of agile methodologies might be incorporated for specific development sprints or problem-solving activities.

Company Website: https://www.stellantis.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Stellantis's global presence and multi-brand structure mean that this role operates within a large, complex, and established automotive engineering environment with a strong emphasis on standardized processes and collaborative development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Engineer / Lead Engineer. This role is positioned at a senior level, requiring significant technical expertise and the ability to lead and influence project outcomes. It's a key contributor role with leadership responsibilities over specific engineering streams within engine development.

Reporting Structure: The Design Systems Engineer will likely report to a higher-level engineering manager or director within the powertrain or engine development division. They will, in turn, lead and mentor Design Release Engineers (DREs) and designers, creating a direct impact on junior team members' development.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on Stellantis's product portfolio. By ensuring the successful technical execution of engine designs, the engineer contributes to vehicle performance, fuel efficiency, emissions compliance, manufacturing cost, and overall product quality – all critical factors for market competitiveness and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific engine technologies (e.g., advanced combustion, electrification integration, emissions control).

• Leadership Advancement: Progress into roles such as Engineering Manager, Technical Program Manager, or Director of Powertrain Engineering.

• Cross-Divisional Mobility: Opportunities to move into related areas such as vehicle integration, advanced R&D, or global product planning.

• Professional Certifications & Training: Access to industry-specific training, conferences, and potential support for advanced degrees or specialized certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+ Years" experience level strongly suggests a role with significant growth potential, moving from a senior individual contributor/team lead to a management or principal technical expert position within Stellantis's extensive engineering organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role within Stellantis's engineering facilities, likely co-located with design, validation, and testing teams. This facilitates close collaboration and rapid problem-solving.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Auburn Hills, Michigan, a major hub for automotive engineering and R&D in the United States. Stellantis may have other related facilities globally where collaboration or occasional travel might occur.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect an open or semi-open office layout designed to encourage interaction among engineers and project teams. Access to meeting rooms, design review spaces, and collaboration zones is standard.

• Tools and Technology: Workstations equipped with high-performance computing for CAD/CAE software, access to internal engineering databases, simulation tools, and communication platforms.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with DREs, designers, validation engineers, manufacturing representatives, and potentially suppliers. Regular team meetings, design reviews, and problem-solving sessions are integral to the workflow.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is the baseline. However, given the critical nature of product development timelines in the automotive industry, flexibility and willingness to work extended hours, including evenings and weekends, during peak project phases or when addressing urgent issues, is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" AI-derived work arrangement is critical. This role demands physical presence for hands-on engineering oversight, team collaboration, and access to on-site resources and testing facilities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview(s): Series of interviews with engineering managers and senior technical staff. Expect in-depth questions on engine design principles, validation methodologies, PDSP, root cause analysis, and project management.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of selected projects from your portfolio, focusing on demonstrated impact, problem-solving approaches, and technical contributions. Be prepared to discuss specific challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Cross-functional Team Interaction: Potentially meet with key stakeholders from related departments (e.g., manufacturing, validation) to assess collaboration skills.

• Executive Presentation Simulation (Possible): May include a scenario where you present a technical recommendation or issue summary, simulating the need to communicate with leadership.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., cost savings, performance improvements, validation success rates).

• Showcase Process Adherence: Highlight how you've successfully navigated and contributed to structured development processes like PDSP.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Detail specific technical challenges, your systematic approach to root cause analysis, and the robustness of the solutions implemented.

• Highlight Leadership: Include examples of leading cross-functional teams, mentoring junior engineers, and driving consensus.

• Tailor to Stellantis: Research Stellantis's current engine technologies and strategic priorities to align your examples with their business objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be ready to discuss hypothetical engine design or problem-solving scenarios, outlining your step-by-step approach.

• Process Walkthrough: Prepare to explain your experience with phased-gated development processes and how you ensure timely and effective execution.

• Communication Practice: Rehearse articulating complex technical information clearly and concisely, especially for executive-level audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on PDSP, executive presentations, and cross-functional leadership suggests that interviewers will assess not only technical depth but also process discipline, communication effectiveness, and strategic thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD tools such as CATIA (highly probable given Stellantis's history with FCA) or potentially Siemens NX for 3D modeling and design.

• CAE Software: Experience with simulation and analysis tools like ANSYS, MSC Nastran, Abaqus for structural, thermal, and vibration analysis.

• Data Analysis Software: Tools for analyzing test data and simulation results, such as MATLAB/Simulink, Python (with libraries like NumPy, Pandas), or specialized engineering data analysis platforms.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Stellantis Systems: Familiarity with Stellantis's proprietary databases, PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems, and reporting tools for tracking design changes, BOMs, and project status.

• Performance Monitoring Tools: Software used for analyzing engine performance data from dynamometer testing or vehicle field tests.

CRM & Automation:

• PLM Systems: Tools like Teamcenter, Enovia, or similar for managing product data, revisions, and workflows throughout the product lifecycle.

• Project Management Software: Tools such as Microsoft Project, Jira, or internal Stellantis equivalents for planning, tracking, and managing project timelines and tasks.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for day-to-day team communication and document sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given Stellantis's background, CATIA is a very likely CAD tool. Proficiency in PLM systems is crucial for managing complex product data in a large automotive organization.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Engineering: A commitment to high-quality design, rigorous validation, and continuous improvement in all aspects of engine development.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Strong emphasis on working effectively across diverse teams, sharing knowledge, and achieving collective goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Learning: Encouraging new ideas, adopting new technologies, and fostering an environment where engineers are constantly developing their skills.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for project commitments, technical decisions, and delivering results on time and to specification.

• Customer Focus: Designing and developing engines that meet or exceed customer expectations for performance, reliability, and efficiency.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: Expect a highly integrated approach where engineers from different disciplines work closely together on a day-to-day basis.

• Data-Driven Discussions: Technical decisions are typically backed by data from simulations, testing, or analysis, leading to fact-based discussions.

• Formal Reviews: Regular design reviews, technical gate reviews, and problem-solving sessions are standard, requiring clear communication and constructive feedback.

• Global Coordination: Ability to collaborate effectively with international counterparts, respecting different time zones and cultural nuances.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values likely reflect a blend of traditional automotive engineering rigor with a modern focus on collaboration and continuous learning, essential for a global automotive giant like Stellantis.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Meeting Evolving Regulations: Navigating increasingly stringent global emissions and fuel economy standards requires innovative engineering solutions and constant adaptation.

• Balancing Performance, Cost, and Durability: Achieving optimal engine performance, meeting cost targets, and ensuring long-term durability simultaneously is a complex engineering trade-off.

• Integration of New Technologies: Incorporating emerging technologies (e.g., advanced hybridization, alternative fuels, smart engine controls) into existing development frameworks.

• Global Program Coordination: Managing development and validation across different regions with varying requirements and testing capabilities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses on combustion, NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness), emissions control, and other engine-specific topics.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to hone management, project leadership, and strategic planning skills.

• Industry Conferences & Symposia: Participation in events like SAE World Congress to stay abreast of the latest industry trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior engineers and leaders within Stellantis, and to mentor junior engineers, fostering knowledge transfer.

📝 Enhancement Note: The automotive industry is rapidly evolving, presenting both challenges and significant growth opportunities for skilled engineers. This role offers a chance to be at the forefront of engine technology development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with the Stellantis Propulsion System Development Process (PDSP) or a similar phased-gated development methodology. How have you ensured compliance and successful progression through the gates?"

• "Walk me through a complex engine design problem you faced. What was your approach to root cause analysis, what solutions did you consider, and what was the final outcome?"

• "How would you manage competing priorities and stakeholder demands from different departments (e.g., manufacturing, marketing, validation) when developing a new engine?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about working for Stellantis and contributing to our engine development efforts?"

• "Describe a time you had to lead a cross-functional team through a difficult technical challenge. What was your leadership style, and how did you ensure team cohesion and success?"

• "How do you stay current with advancements in engine technology and automotive engineering best practices?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the objective, your role and responsibilities, the technical challenges, your specific contributions, the methodologies/tools used, and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Emphasize Process: Detail how you followed established processes (like PDSP) and how your actions contributed to the overall project success.

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the business impact of your work – cost savings, performance gains, quality improvements, risk mitigation.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed technical questions about your projects and be ready to defend your design choices and problem-solving approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely assess your understanding of structured engineering processes, your ability to solve complex technical problems, your leadership and communication skills, and your fit with Stellantis's engineering culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Systems Engineer position:

• Submit your application through the Stellantis Careers portal via the provided link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords and responsibilities directly matching the job description, such as "Propulsion System Development," "Engine Design," "PDSP," "Cross-functional Leadership," "Root Cause Analysis," and "Validation Planning." Quantify achievements with specific metrics.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your experience in engine design, validation, process adherence, and leadership. Be ready to present these in detail, focusing on impact and methodology.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common engineering interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples (STAR method) and technical problem-solving scenarios relevant to engine development.

• Research Stellantis: Familiarize yourself with Stellantis's brands, current engine technologies, and strategic goals related to powertrain development and sustainability.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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