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 - Automotive Operations Date Posted: October 07, 2025 Experience Level: 8+ Years (Senior Level) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in orchestrating the technical execution of base engine design, ensuring alignment with customer requirements, functional objectives, and stringent quality targets within the automotive manufacturing sector.
• The Design Systems Engineer (DSE) will act as a key leader in managing the Propulsion System Development Process (PDSP), translating complex technical data into actionable insights for executive leadership presentations and decision-making.
• This position requires a strategic approver for all critical technical decisions, timing plans, change notifications (CN's), engine build documentation, and service manuals, driving product development lifecycle adherence.
• The DSE will lead global, cross-functional engineering teams, employing rigorous root cause analysis and robust solution implementation to overcome technical challenges across various engineering domains.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw data points to an "Engineering" category, the responsibilities clearly place this role within a broader "Automotive Operations" context, focusing on product development lifecycle management, cross-functional team leadership, and technical decision-making for engine systems. The "Systems" aspect implies a focus on how individual components and sub-systems integrate into the overall engine architecture, a critical operational consideration in automotive manufacturing.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Program Execution & Compliance: Serve as a key contributor to the Stellantis Propulsion System Development Process (PDSP) for assigned engine programs, ensuring all technical inputs are summarized and presented effectively to executive leadership for approval and strategic alignment.
• Technical Decision Authority: Act as a critical approver for all technical decisions, timing plans, change notifications (CN's), engine build books, and service manuals, ensuring consistency and quality across the product development lifecycle.
• Development & Validation Oversight: Own the approval and execution of the complete engine mechanical development and validation plan across all project phases, ensuring technical feasibility and performance targets are met.
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership: Lead global, cross-functional teams comprising engineers from diverse technical domains, facilitating root cause analysis of complex issues and driving the implementation of robust, scalable solutions.
• Release Engineering Guidance: Direct Release Engineers (DREs) and designers within the engine team to achieve program objectives for assemblies, sub-assemblies, and components, focusing on critical parameters such as cost, weight, performance, quality, manufacturability, and timely delivery.
• Cost Reduction & Risk Management: Lead cost reduction initiatives, including supplier resourcing risk assessments, to optimize manufacturing efficiency and product profitability without compromising quality or performance.
• Commitment Accountability: Ensure adherence to all project commitments, driving accountability across the engineering team to successfully achieve program goals within defined timelines and budgets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description emphasizes "responsibilities include," which has been expanded into more action-oriented bullet points to better reflect the proactive and leadership-oriented nature of a Design Systems Engineer role. Keywords like "program execution," "technical decision authority," "validation oversight," and "cross-functional team leadership" are integrated to align with typical operations and engineering leadership roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related technical field. This foundational knowledge is critical for understanding complex engine systems and their integration.

Experience:

• Minimum of eight years of progressive experience in propulsion system related engineering, calibration, or system integration.
• Demonstrated understanding and practical application of phased-gated product development launch processes, crucial for managing complex automotive programs.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex assignments simultaneously, showcasing strong organizational and prioritization skills essential for high-stakes engineering projects.

Required Skills:

• Propulsion System Expertise: Deep understanding of base engine design principles, mechanical development, and validation methodologies, with a focus on automotive applications.
• Product Development Lifecycle Management: Proficiency in managing phased-gated launch processes and understanding the interdependencies of various development stages.
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and coordinate global teams with diverse technical expertise to achieve common goals.
• Root Cause Analysis & Problem Solving: Strong analytical skills to conduct thorough root cause analysis of complex engineering issues and implement effective, robust solutions.
• Technical Decision Making: Capability to make critical, informed technical decisions and provide clear recommendations to executive leadership.
• Communication & Presentation: Superior written and oral communication skills, coupled with a demonstrated ability to prepare and deliver compelling presentations for executive stakeholders.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Understanding of project timelines, resource allocation, and commitment adherence for complex engineering programs.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced Education: Master's Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or related field) to provide deeper theoretical and practical knowledge.
• Calibration Experience: Hands-on experience with engine calibration strategies and their impact on performance, emissions, and fuel economy.
• Cost Engineering: Experience in leading cost reduction initiatives and performing supplier resourcing risk assessments.
• Design Release Engineering (DRE) Experience: Familiarity with the DRE role and responsibilities within automotive product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Basic Qualifications" and "Preferred Qualifications" have been categorized into "Required Skills" and "Preferred Skills" for clarity. Specific operations-oriented skills like "Product Development Lifecycle Management," "Root Cause Analysis & Problem Solving," and "Technical Decision Making" have been highlighted, reflecting the operational aspects of this engineering role. The experience level has been inferred as "8+ Years" based on the "minimum eight years" requirement, and the "AI_experience_level" from the input further supports this. "On-site" work arrangement is confirmed by "AI_work_arrangement".

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Engine Development Case Studies: Showcase comprehensive case studies detailing your involvement in the design, development, and validation of specific engine systems, highlighting your role in meeting technical specifications and program objectives.
• Process Improvement Documentation: Evidence of contributions to optimizing development processes, such as refining the Propulsion System Development Process (PDSP) or improving change management (CN) workflows, demonstrating an impact on efficiency or quality.
• Cross-Functional Project Leadership Examples: Portfolio pieces that illustrate your ability to lead diverse, global engineering teams through complex problem-solving scenarios, including root cause analysis and solution implementation.
• Technical Decision & Presentation Artifacts: Examples of technical review documentation, critical decision summaries, or executive presentation materials that demonstrate your ability to articulate complex technical information and justify key recommendations.

Process Documentation:

• PDSP Adherence & Contribution: Demonstrate understanding and practical application of the Stellantis Propulsion System Development Process (PDSP), including how you ensure compliance and contribute to its evolution.
• Change Management (CN) Workflow: Detail your experience in managing and approving Change Notifications (CNs), illustrating a systematic approach to assessing impact, scope, and risk.
• Validation Plan Execution: Provide examples of how you have overseen the execution of mechanical development and validation plans, ensuring thorough testing and data analysis to meet performance and quality targets.
• Service Manual & Build Book Contribution: Showcase experience in contributing to or approving technical documentation such as engine build books and service manuals, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is critical for operations and engineering roles, emphasizing the need for candidates to demonstrate not just technical knowledge but also a systematic approach to process management and documentation. The "Portfolio Essentials" and "Process Documentation" sections are designed to guide candidates on what specific types of evidence Stellantis would likely look for in a Design Systems Engineer.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Systems Engineer with 8+ years of experience in the automotive sector in the Auburn Hills, Michigan area, the estimated annual salary range is $125,000 - $175,000. This range accounts for the senior level of the role, the specialized nature of engine systems engineering, and the cost of living in the region.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.
• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) plan with potential company match, designed to support long-term financial security.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays to promote work-life balance.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, including access to training programs, workshops, and potential support for advanced degrees.
• Employee Vehicle Programs: Potential access to employee discounts on Stellantis vehicles and related services.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Coverage to provide financial protection for employees and their families.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time employment, typically 40 hours per week. While core business hours are expected, flexibility may be offered based on project needs and team coordination, particularly for global team interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Since salary information was not provided, a competitive and regionally appropriate range has been estimated. This estimate is based on typical compensation for senior engineering roles in the automotive industry in Michigan, considering the specified experience level. The benefits listed are standard for large automotive manufacturers like Stellantis. The working hours are inferred from the "Full-time" employment type and "AI_working_hours" input.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing and Mobility Services. Stellantis is a global automotive group, a significant player in designing, developing, manufacturing, and selling vehicles. This industry demands innovation, efficiency, and a strong focus on product quality and customer satisfaction. Company Size: Stellantis is a large, global corporation with over 150,000 employees worldwide. As a large enterprise, it offers structured career paths, extensive resources, and the opportunity to work on high-impact, large-scale projects. Founded: Stellantis was formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and PSA Group. This relatively new entity leverages the rich heritage and established expertise of its predecessor companies, fostering a culture that blends tradition with forward-looking innovation.

Team Structure:

• Engine Systems Engineering Team: This team likely operates within a larger Powertrain or Engineering division. It would consist of specialized engineers focused on various aspects of engine design, development, and integration.
• Reporting Structure: The Design Systems Engineer likely reports to a Manager or Director of Engine Engineering or Powertrain Development, with direct oversight over Release Engineers (DREs) and designers on assigned projects.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role necessitates close collaboration with departments such as Advanced Engineering, Product Planning, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, and potentially global R&D centers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Development: Emphasis on using data from simulations, testing, and customer feedback to inform design decisions and validate performance.
• Agile & Lean Principles: While automotive development has traditional gate reviews, there's an increasing adoption of agile methodologies for faster iteration and lean principles for efficiency in design and manufacturing.
• Global Standards & Best Practices: Adherence to Stellantis's global engineering standards, development processes (like PDSP), and industry best practices to ensure consistency and quality across all product lines.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Information about Stellantis's industry, size, and founding has been integrated to provide context. The "Team Structure" and "Methodology" sections are inferred based on the role's responsibilities and typical structures within large automotive manufacturers, drawing on terms like "Powertrain," "PDSP," and "Agile/Lean principles" relevant to operations and engineering.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Senior Engineer or Lead Engineer level, requiring significant technical expertise and demonstrated leadership in managing complex engineering programs. It's a critical contributor role within the product development lifecycle, bridging technical execution with strategic oversight. Reporting Structure: The Design Systems Engineer typically reports to a higher-level engineering management position (e.g., Engineering Manager, Director of Powertrain) and leads a team of DREs and designers. This structure provides exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision-making processes. Operations Impact: The Design Systems Engineer directly influences the performance, quality, cost, and timely delivery of Stellantis's engine systems. Successful execution of this role has a profound impact on vehicle reliability, customer satisfaction, regulatory compliance, and the company's overall profitability and market competitiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Advance into more specialized roles within engine systems, such as combustion, emissions, or advanced powertrain technologies.
• Leadership Progression: Move into management roles, such as Engineering Manager, Director of Powertrain Engineering, or Program Director, overseeing larger teams and broader project scopes.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into roles in manufacturing operations, quality assurance, product planning, or global R&D, leveraging a deep understanding of engine systems.
• Advanced Training & Development: Opportunities to pursue further certifications, attend industry conferences, or engage in advanced training programs focused on emerging automotive technologies and engineering methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section analyzes the career trajectory and impact of the Design Systems Engineer role, emphasizing its strategic importance within Stellantis's operations. The growth opportunities are framed to appeal to ambitious engineers looking for career advancement within the automotive sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office environment within Stellantis's Auburn Hills, Michigan campus. The workspace will likely be designed to foster collaboration among engineering teams. Office Location(s):

• Auburn Hills, Michigan: This location serves as a major hub for Stellantis's engineering and product development activities in North America, providing access to extensive facilities and a concentration of automotive expertise.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Engineering Hub: The workspace is expected to be a dynamic environment where engineers from various disciplines interact daily, sharing insights and working together on complex design challenges.
• Access to Tools & Technology: Engineers will have access to state-of-the-art design software (CAD/CAE), simulation tools, testing equipment, and potentially advanced prototyping facilities necessary for engine development.
• Team Interaction: The role involves significant interaction with DREs, designers, and other cross-functional team members, fostering a culture of shared problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is typically 40 hours per week, with core business hours expected for team collaboration and project alignment. However, the demanding nature of automotive product development may necessitate occasional overtime or adjusted schedules to meet critical project deadlines and milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" work arrangement is confirmed by "AI_work_arrangement". This section details the physical and collaborative aspects of the work environment, providing a clearer picture of the day-to-day experience for an engineer at Stellantis.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiting specialist will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Technical Interview(s): Expect one or more interviews with engineering managers and senior engineers. These will focus on your technical expertise in engine systems, product development processes, and problem-solving capabilities. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your resume.
• Cross-Functional Team Interaction: You may participate in a session with key stakeholders from different departments (e.g., Manufacturing, Quality) to assess your collaboration and communication skills.
• Executive Presentation/Case Study: A potential final stage could involve presenting a case study or a project from your portfolio to senior leadership, demonstrating your ability to articulate complex technical information and strategic recommendations.
• Final Offer: Following successful interviews and background checks, an offer will be extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Relevance: Select 3-5 key projects that best showcase your experience in base engine design, development, validation, and cross-functional leadership.
• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your specific role, the actions taken, and the quantifiable results (e.g., % cost reduction, % performance improvement, adherence to timeline, reduction in validation issues).
• Highlight Process Adherence: Show how you applied development processes like PDSP and managed change notifications (CNs) effectively.
• Demonstrate Leadership: Use examples to illustrate your ability to lead global teams, drive root cause analysis, and make critical technical decisions.
• Presentation Readiness: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio items concisely and effectively, anticipating questions about your contributions and technical insights.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Problem-Solving: Review common engine system challenges (e.g., emissions, thermal management, performance optimization, durability) and practice articulating your systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving them.
• Process Improvement Scenarios: Consider how you would improve specific aspects of the PDSP or the change management process within an automotive engineering context.
• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you have managed conflicting priorities or communicated complex technical issues to non-technical stakeholders or executive leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides practical advice for navigating Stellantis's hiring process, with a strong emphasis on portfolio development and interview preparation, tailored to the specific requirements of a Design Systems Engineer role in the automotive industry.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/CAE Software: Proficiency with industry-standard Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) tools such as CATIA, Siemens NX, ANSYS, or similar for engine component and system design and simulation.
• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems: Experience with PLM software (e.g., Teamcenter, Windchill) for managing design data, revisions, and product configurations throughout the development lifecycle.
• Simulation & Analysis Tools: Familiarity with tools for virtual testing, performance simulation, thermal analysis, and stress analysis relevant to engine components and systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Software: Ability to use tools for analyzing test data, simulation results, and performance metrics (e.g., Excel advanced functions, MATLAB, Python for data analysis).
• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating technical reports, summarizing findings, and presenting data clearly to various stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Jira, Microsoft Project) for tracking tasks, timelines, and resource allocation within engineering programs.
• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or internal company platforms for effective communication and knowledge sharing across global teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines the likely technical toolkit for a Design Systems Engineer. While specific tools may vary, the categories (CAD/CAE, PLM, Simulation, Data Analysis, Project Management) are standard for such roles in the automotive industry.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Engineering: A commitment to high standards in design, development, and validation, ensuring robust and reliable engine systems.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to explore new technologies, optimize existing processes, and foster a culture of ongoing learning and development.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working effectively across diverse teams and departments to achieve shared objectives and overcome challenges.
• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for project commitments, technical decisions, and delivering high-quality results on time.
• Customer Focus: Designing and developing engines with the end-user experience, performance, and satisfaction as primary considerations.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Responsive: Engaging actively with team members and stakeholders to anticipate needs, address issues promptly, and ensure smooth project flow.
• Data-Informed & Analytical: Basing decisions and recommendations on thorough data analysis and technical evidence.
• Global & Inclusive: Working effectively with colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds and geographical locations, fostering an inclusive environment.
• Solution-Oriented: Focusing on identifying problems and developing practical, robust solutions rather than dwelling on issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: These values and collaboration styles are inferred based on the typical culture of large, established automotive manufacturers like Stellantis and the responsibilities of a senior engineering role focused on systems integration and cross-functional leadership.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Demands: Managing diverse stakeholder requirements, cost pressures, performance targets, and strict timelines simultaneously.
• Complexity of Modern Engines: Keeping pace with advancements in engine technology, including electrification integration, emissions control, and advanced materials.
• Global Team Coordination: Effectively leading and aligning teams across different time zones, cultures, and communication styles.
• Navigating Evolving Regulations: Ensuring compliance with increasingly stringent global emissions, fuel economy, and safety regulations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses on topics such as combustion dynamics, advanced materials, hybrid/electric powertrains, and diagnostic systems.
• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to enhance management and strategic planning skills through internal Stellantis programs.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in leading automotive engineering conferences to stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices.
• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within Stellantis or to mentor junior engineers, fostering knowledge transfer and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential challenges inherent in the role and company, framing them as opportunities for growth and development, which is a common strategy in modern job descriptions to attract ambitious candidates.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Engine Development Process: Be prepared to discuss your experience with the PDSP or similar automotive development processes. How do you ensure adherence to gate reviews and technical milestones?
• Technical Decision-Making Scenarios: Describe a complex technical problem you faced in engine design. How did you analyze the issue, what solutions did you consider, and how did you make the final decision, justifying it to stakeholders?
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Provide an example of a time you had to lead or heavily influence a cross-functional team to achieve an engine development objective. What were the challenges, and how did you overcome them?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Stellantis's Vision: Research Stellantis's current strategic priorities, particularly regarding powertrain development and future mobility. How do you see this role contributing to those goals?
• Team Dynamics: How do you approach building consensus and driving action within a diverse, global engineering team?
• Impact Measurement: How would you measure the success of an engine development program from a technical and operational perspective? What key metrics would you track?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: For each portfolio item, present the context, your specific contribution, the methodology used, and the outcome. Focus on impact and lessons learned.
• Technical Depth & Breadth: Be ready to answer detailed technical questions about your projects, demonstrating a deep understanding of engine systems and engineering principles.
• Process & System Integration: Emphasize how your work integrated various components and systems, and how you managed the development lifecycle and documentation.
• Engagement: Be prepared to engage in a dialogue about your work, showing enthusiasm and a genuine interest in Stellantis's engineering challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section offers targeted preparation advice for Stellantis's interview process, focusing on strategy, technical depth, and effective portfolio presentation, aligning with the expectations for a senior engineering role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Systems Engineer - Engines position:

• Submit Your Application: Navigate to the Stellantis careers portal or the provided ADP link and submit your resume and any requested supplemental information.
• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights your experience in engine systems, product development processes (like PDSP), cross-functional team leadership, and technical decision-making, using keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 3-5 impactful projects that demonstrate your engineering capabilities, process adherence, and problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss these in detail.
• Research Stellantis: Familiarize yourself with Stellantis's current product lines, technological innovations, and strategic goals, particularly in powertrain development.
• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common technical, behavioral, and situational interview questions, incorporating specific examples from your experience.

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

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