Axle & Driveline Product Strategy Engineer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Axle & Driveline Product Strategy Engineer Company: Ford Location: Livonia, Michigan, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Product Strategy & Engineering Date Posted: December 03, 2025 Experience Level: 2-5 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for defining and executing product strategies for Axle and Driveline components, ensuring alignment with Ford's overarching technological roadmaps and corporate objectives.
• It involves deep analysis of emerging technologies, competitive landscapes, and market trends to inform future product development and strategic proposals.
• The position requires strong cross-functional leadership to drive complex engineering projects from conception through to delivery, focusing on efficiency and quality targets.
• A key aspect is supporting the development of Unit Program and Mega Project proposals, translating technical capabilities into viable business opportunities that enhance vehicle performance and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Product Strategy Engineer," the responsibilities lean heavily into product planning, strategic development, and cross-functional program support rather than pure product management. The emphasis on "proposals" and "strategies" suggests a significant focus on forward-looking planning and business case development within an engineering context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Support the development of Unit Program proposals, ensuring they are strategically aligned with UNSE (Unified Next-Generation Software Environment) technologies, platform plans, and key corporate strategies.
• Develop comprehensive Axle product proposals and strategies to support the Global Cycle Plan, which includes continuous analysis of future technologies and competitive trends within the driveline sector.
• Formulate Mega Project proposals and strategies to support TVM (Total Value Management) initiatives and quality improvement actions, driving efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate closely with the Global Customer & Retail Services (GCRS) volume database to develop volume summaries and supporting documentation for stakeholders including MBO (Manufacturing Business Office), PD (Product Development), PTME (Product Technology & Manufacturing Engineering), Purchasing, and Finance.
• Support the creation and management of timing plans that optimize the engineering development and delivery process, ensuring the timely release of high-quality products.
• Lead and facilitate cross-functional team meetings, ensuring clear communication, progress tracking, and effective problem-solving across engineering, manufacturing, purchasing, and finance departments.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of competitive product offerings, market demands, and emerging technological advancements to identify opportunities for innovation and differentiation in Axle and Driveline systems.
• Translate complex technical requirements and strategic objectives into actionable engineering development plans and project proposals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The breadth of responsibilities, from strategic proposals and competitive analysis to volume management and cross-functional leadership, indicates a role that bridges engineering, product planning, and program management. The focus on specific Ford internal processes like UNSE, Global Cycle Plan, and TVM highlights the need for candidates to understand or quickly adapt to Ford's product development lifecycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (e.g., Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Electrical Engineering) or a related technical field is typically expected for this level of role within the automotive industry.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of experience in product strategy, product planning, or engineering development within the automotive sector, with a focus on powertrain, driveline, or related mechanical systems.
• Demonstrated experience in developing product proposals, strategic plans, and business cases that require cross-functional buy-in.
• Proven ability to analyze market trends, competitive landscapes, and emerging technologies to inform product roadmaps.

Required Skills:

• Product Strategy Development: Ability to define and articulate product vision, strategy, and roadmaps.
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership: Proven experience in leading and coordinating diverse teams (Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Finance) to achieve common goals.
• Microsoft PowerPoint: High proficiency in creating compelling presentations for strategic proposals, stakeholder updates, and technical documentation.
• Microsoft Excel: High proficiency for data analysis, volume forecasting, financial modeling, and creating detailed reports.
• Technical Analysis: Capability to analyze engineering data, competitive benchmarks, and technology trends.
• Project Planning & Execution: Experience in developing and managing timing plans for engineering development and product launches.
• Communication & Presentation Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to various audiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Automotive Driveline/Axle Systems Knowledge: In-depth understanding of Axle and Driveline component functionality, design, and manufacturing processes.
• Global Product Development Processes: Familiarity with automotive global product development cycles (e.g., Ford's Global Cycle Plan).
• Volume Forecasting & Analysis: Experience working with volume databases and performing market volume analysis.
• Total Value Management (TVM) Principles: Understanding of TVM concepts and their application in product development.
• Systems Engineering Principles: Knowledge of systems engineering approaches for complex automotive products.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "2-5 years" experience level, the emphasis on "High proficiency in PowerPoint and Excel" and "ability to set-up, lead and follow-up on cross-functional team meetings" suggests that while technical engineering knowledge is foundational, strong project management, communication, and analytical tool proficiency are equally critical for success in this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Product Strategy Proposals: Examples of developed product proposals, including market analysis, competitive benchmarking, and strategic recommendations.
• Cross-Functional Project Leadership: Case studies demonstrating leadership in complex projects involving multiple departments, highlighting problem-solving and collaboration.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Demonstrations of analytical work using Excel or other tools, showcasing ability to derive insights from data (e.g., volume analysis, trend analysis).
• Presentation Materials: Samples of high-impact PowerPoint presentations used for strategic decision-making, proposal reviews, or stakeholder updates.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates may be asked to describe their process for developing product strategies, conducting competitive analysis, or managing cross-functional team meetings.
• Emphasis will be placed on structured approaches to problem-solving and decision-making within an engineering and product development context.
• The ability to document and communicate complex engineering and strategic processes clearly will be assessed.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Product Strategy Engineer," a portfolio should showcase strategic thinking, analytical capabilities, and the ability to translate technical concepts into business proposals. The focus is less on pure coding or system implementation and more on strategic planning, market analysis, and effective communication of technical and business rationale.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Product Strategy Engineers with 2-5 years of experience in the Livonia, Michigan area, the estimated salary range for GSR5-GSR8 grades at Ford would typically fall between $75,000 - $110,000 annually.
• This estimate considers the cost of living in the Detroit metropolitan area, typical compensation structures for large automotive OEMs, and the specified salary grades (GSR5-GSR8) which imply a progression of responsibility and experience.

Benefits:

• Immediate Medical, Dental, Vision and Prescription Drug Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance plans available from the start of employment.
• Flexible Family Care Days: Support for personal and family needs.
• Paid Parental Leave: Generous leave policies for new parents.
• New Parent Ramp-Up Programs: Assistance for returning to work after parental leave.
• Subsidized Back-Up Child Care: Financial support for temporary childcare needs.
• Family Building Benefits: Reimbursement for adoption, surrogacy, and fertility treatments.
• Vehicle Discount Program: Special pricing on Ford vehicles for employees and eligible family members.
• Management Leases: Potential for vehicle leasing programs.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and professional development.
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Active groups fostering community, diversity, and inclusion.
• Paid Time Off for Community Service: Opportunities to engage in volunteer activities.
• Generous Schedule of Paid Holidays: Including a full week off between Christmas and New Year's Day.
• Paid Time Off & Vacation Purchase Option: Standard PTO with the flexibility to purchase additional vacation days.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek, typically 40 hours per week.
• While the role is on-site, there may be some flexibility in daily start/end times, subject to team and project needs. Overtime may be required during critical project phases or launch periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided employee benefits are extensive and align with those of a major automotive manufacturer. The salary range is an estimation based on general industry data for similar roles and experience levels in the specified location and company size, acknowledging that Ford's internal grading system (GSR5-GSR8) will dictate the final placement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing & Technology Company Size: Ford is a large, established global corporation with over 100,000 employees worldwide. This scale implies robust processes, extensive resources, and a structured corporate environment. Founded: 1903, with over a century of innovation and evolution in the automotive industry. This long history suggests a culture that values heritage, continuous improvement, and adaptation to changing market dynamics.

Team Structure:

• The Product Strategy Engineer will likely be part of a larger Product Planning or Engineering department, possibly within a specific vehicle segment or technology group (e.g., Advanced Engineering, Powertrain).
• The team structure will involve reporting lines to a manager overseeing product strategy or engineering development, with direct collaboration with engineers, program managers, and representatives from various functional areas.
• Cross-functional collaboration is a cornerstone of Ford's product development process, meaning this role will interact extensively with teams in design, manufacturing, purchasing, finance, and marketing.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Ford emphasizes using data from market research, competitive analysis, and internal testing to inform strategic decisions and product development.
• Process Optimization: Continuous improvement of engineering and development processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and speed to market.
• Global Collaboration: A methodology that leverages global expertise and resources to develop products that meet diverse market needs, while maintaining consistent quality and brand standards.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Ford's culture is a blend of traditional manufacturing strengths with a forward-looking approach to technology and mobility. For an operations-focused role, understanding Ford's established product development lifecycle, its commitment to quality and efficiency, and its global operational footprint is crucial. The company's size offers stability and significant career development potential.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an early to mid-career engineering and strategy position. It requires a solid foundation in engineering principles and product development processes, with the opportunity to influence future product direction. It bridges technical engineering expertise with strategic business planning.

Reporting Structure: The engineer will likely report to a Product Strategy Manager, Engineering Manager, or a similar leadership role within the Axle & Driveline product group. They will work collaboratively with peers and senior engineers across different disciplines.

Operations Impact: The Product Strategy Engineer directly impacts Ford's future product portfolio by shaping proposals that influence technology adoption, feature sets, and market positioning for critical Axle and Driveline components. Their work contributes to vehicle performance, efficiency, reliability, and ultimately, customer satisfaction and market competitiveness, which are key drivers of revenue and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Axle and Driveline technologies, becoming a subject matter expert.
• Product Management Transition: Develop skills leading to roles in full product management, owning a product line from concept to launch.
• Program Management: Move into managing larger, more complex engineering programs and cross-functional initiatives.
• Leadership Track: Progress to leadership positions within product planning, engineering management, or strategic development teams.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into related areas such as advanced engineering, vehicle integration, or even advanced manufacturing strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Product Strategy Engineer" title suggests a path that can lead to more senior roles in product planning, program management, or specialized engineering leadership. The emphasis on strategy and cross-functional work provides a strong foundation for broader business acumen development within the automotive sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office-based work environment within Ford's facilities in Livonia, Michigan. This setting is designed for direct collaboration, access to necessary resources, and integration with the broader engineering and product development teams.

Office Location(s): Livonia, Michigan, a hub for automotive engineering and development in the Detroit metropolitan area. This location offers proximity to other automotive companies, suppliers, and technical talent.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The workspace will likely facilitate regular interaction with engineers, program managers, and other stakeholders involved in product development.
• Technical Resources: Access to necessary engineering software, data analysis tools, and potentially shared lab or testing facilities for product validation.
• Team Integration: Opportunities to participate in team meetings, design reviews, and brainstorming sessions integral to product strategy and engineering development.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time, 40 hours per week, with expectations of flexibility to meet project deadlines.
• While the core hours will be set, the on-site nature allows for structured workdays focused on in-person collaboration and project engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration, team dynamics, and direct access to company resources in this role, which is typical for engineering and product development positions at large automotive firms.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application for basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with role requirements.
• Technical/Behavioral Interview: Typically conducted by hiring managers and/or senior engineers. Expect questions on your engineering background, product strategy experience, problem-solving skills, and how you handle cross-functional collaboration.
• Case Study or Project Presentation: You may be asked to present a past project from your portfolio, detailing your role, the challenges, the process followed, and the outcomes. This is where your portfolio will be crucial.
• Cross-Functional Team Interview: Potentially an interview with representatives from departments you'd collaborate with (e.g., Purchasing, Manufacturing) to assess teamwork and communication.
• Final Interview: With a senior leader to discuss overall fit, strategic alignment, and career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your specific contribution, the methodology used, and the tangible results (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, improved performance metrics, successful proposal approval).
• Showcase Strategy & Analysis: Include examples that demonstrate your ability to analyze market trends, competitive landscapes, and technical data to formulate strategic product proposals.
• Highlight Cross-Functional Collaboration: Use case studies that illustrate your ability to lead or contribute effectively within diverse teams, managing stakeholders and driving consensus.
• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrate your command of tools like Excel and PowerPoint through the quality and clarity of your submitted materials. Ensure data is well-organized and presentations are professional and persuasive.
• Conciseness and Clarity: Tailor your portfolio to highlight the most relevant aspects for an Axle & Driveline Product Strategy Engineer role. Be prepared to walk through your work concisely.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss your approach to developing a product strategy for a new Axle/Driveline technology.
• Prepare to explain how you would gather and analyze competitive intelligence for automotive components.
• Think about how you would present a complex technical proposal to a non-technical executive audience.
• Anticipate questions about how you manage conflicting priorities or disagreements within a cross-functional team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio suggests that practical demonstration of past work is highly valued. Candidates should prepare to showcase strategic thinking, analytical rigor, and effective communication skills through tangible examples of their contributions to product development and strategy.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite:
  • PowerPoint: Essential for creating strategic proposals, presentations, and reports.
  • Excel: Critical for data analysis, financial modeling, volume forecasting, and report generation.
• CAD Software (Familiarity): While not a primary design role, understanding or familiarity with CAD tools (e.g., CATIA, NX) used in automotive engineering can be beneficial for understanding technical specifications and designs.
• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems: Experience with systems like Teamcenter or similar for managing product data and development processes.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Ford Databases: Familiarity with Ford's internal systems for market data, volume tracking (e.g., GCRS), and engineering specifications.
• Business Intelligence Tools (Potential): Exposure to BI tools for data visualization and reporting, though specific tools may vary.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM or sales role, understanding how product strategy translates into market needs that inform Sales and CRM strategies is valuable.
• Experience with project management and collaboration platforms (e.g., Jira, Confluence, Microsoft Teams) for managing cross-functional workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly PowerPoint and Excel, for strategic communication and data analysis. Familiarity with automotive-specific engineering and data systems is a strong plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs through innovative and reliable vehicle components.
• Quality Excellence: Upholding Ford's long-standing reputation for quality and durability in all product development efforts.
• Innovation & Future-Forward Thinking: Driving the development of next-generation technologies and strategies for sustainable mobility.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse teams work together effectively to achieve shared goals.
• Integrity & Accountability: Operating with high ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A highly collaborative style is essential, requiring proactive engagement with diverse teams across engineering, manufacturing, purchasing, finance, and marketing.
• Data-Driven Dialogue: Discussions and decision-making are often grounded in data analysis, market insights, and technical performance metrics.
• Constructive Challenge: A culture that encourages open discussion and constructive debate to ensure the best possible product strategies and solutions are developed.

📝 Enhancement Note: Ford's culture, like many large automotive manufacturers, values a blend of tradition, innovation, and rigorous process. For this role, demonstrating an ability to collaborate effectively across departments, communicate data-backed insights, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement will be key.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Pace of Technological Change: Keeping abreast of rapid advancements in electric vehicle (EV) technology, autonomous driving, and software integration as they impact driveline systems.
• Global Market Complexity: Balancing the needs and regulations of diverse global markets in product strategy development.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholders are aligned on strategy, timelines, and resource allocation for complex projects.
• Balancing Innovation and Cost: Developing innovative solutions within stringent cost targets and manufacturing constraints.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Powertrain & EV Technology: Access to training and projects focused on the evolving landscape of electric and hybrid vehicle powertrains.
• Strategic Planning & Business Acumen: Opportunities to develop skills in market analysis, financial modeling, and long-term strategic planning.
• Leadership Development Programs: Ford offers various programs to cultivate leadership potential within its engineering and management ranks.
• Industry Conferences & Forums: Participation in automotive industry events to stay current with trends and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant exposure to the cutting edge of automotive technology and strategy. The challenges are substantial but directly tied to opportunities for professional growth and impact within a leading global automotive company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a product strategy for a new Axle or Driveline component. What data would you collect, and how would you analyze it?"
• "How would you approach building a business case for investing in a new driveline technology that has higher upfront costs but offers significant long-term benefits?"
• "Given the shift towards EVs, how do you see the role of traditional Axle and Driveline components evolving, and what strategic considerations should Ford prioritize?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Ford's current product strategy, particularly concerning electrification and its impact on driveline systems?"
• "How do you ensure effective communication and alignment when working with diverse teams like Purchasing, Manufacturing, and Finance?"
• "Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders who had differing opinions on a product strategy or technical direction."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project presented, follow a clear narrative: Problem/Opportunity -> Your Role/Strategy -> Process/Methodology -> Key Challenges -> Results/Impact (quantified where possible).
• Highlight Strategic Thinking: Emphasize how your work contributed to broader business or product goals, not just technical execution.
• Data Visualization: Use clear charts and graphs in your presentations to illustrate data analysis and outcomes.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a set timeframe (e.g., 5-10 minutes per project).
• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, alternative approaches, and the long-term implications of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, analytical capabilities, and strong communication skills, backed by concrete examples from your portfolio. Understanding Ford's strategic direction, especially regarding EVs, will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Axle & Driveline Product Strategy Engineer position:

• Submit your application through the Ford Careers portal via the provided job URL.
• Tailor your resume: Highlight experience in product strategy, engineering development, cross-functional team leadership, and proficiency in PowerPoint and Excel. Use keywords from the job description naturally.
• Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your strategic proposal development, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Ensure they are well-documented and visually presentable.
• Research Ford's strategy: Familiarize yourself with Ford's current product portfolio, its electrification strategy, and any recent news related to its driveline or powertrain technologies.
• Practice your presentation: Be ready to walk through your portfolio projects, clearly articulating your contributions, methodology, and the impact of your work. Prepare to answer behavioral and strategic questions.

⚠️ 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.

---