Design Systems Engineer – Transmissions

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Systems Engineer – Transmissions

Company: Stellantis

Location: Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering - Automotive Operations

Date Posted: April 02, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in managing the intricate system integration and interface between various components and subsystems within transmission and driveline systems for Stellantis.

• The Design Systems Engineer will serve as the primary technical liaison, ensuring seamless collaboration between the Chief Engineering (CE) group and Product Release Coordination (PRC) teams.

• Key responsibilities include orchestrating hardware system design reviews, managing virtual analysis workflows, and ensuring robust design controls through DFMEA and DRBFM processes.

• This position demands a proactive approach to managing complex projects, supplier relationships, and cross-functional task forces to drive product development milestones and quality improvements in automotive transmission systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title and responsibilities clearly indicate a deep dive into the systems engineering aspect of automotive transmissions and drivelines, requiring a strong understanding of component interaction, integration, and validation processes within a large automotive manufacturing context. The role emphasizes not just design, but also the coordination and management of the entire product release lifecycle for these critical components.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary hardware system owner for transmission and driveline components, responsible for the integration and system balancing of all constituent parts across various internal and external teams (COEs, Manufacturing, Suppliers, Development Validation Center).

• Schedule and lead hardware system design reviews for the Product Release Coordination (PRC) team, evaluating DRE (Design Release Engineer) design proposals and ensuring alignment with program objectives.

• Organize and manage reviews with the Virtual Analysis/CAE team, verifying the completion of Virtual Design Verification Plan (DVP) and Scorecard reports before ordering prototype hardware.

• Lead and manage Transmission and driveline system and interface DFMEA (Design Failure Mode & Effects Analysis) and DRBFM (Design Review Based on Failure Mode) processes, ensuring comprehensive transparency and the development of cohesive Design Controls for Robust DVP Actions.

• Manage the Assembly (Bill of Materials - BOM) Part Number Complexity Charts for all Axle & Driveline Systems, clearly defining each assembly part number for traceability and management.

• Coordinate and lead Build Readiness Teams (BRT) for prototype orders, confirming proto hardware orders and procurement to meet critical program build milestones.

• Facilitate the coordination of BOM and experimental builds with the Automotive Center of Excellence (ACE) or equivalent, ensuring seamless execution.

• Lead and manage build readiness tasks, including the preparation of build fixtures, test fixtures, and dyno support to ensure successful validation and testing phases.

• Support Chief Engineering (CE) and ACE in developing FTE (Full-Time Equivalent) and ER&D/ED&D (Engineering Research & Development / Engineering Development & Design) Cost Roll-ups for minor updates, Model Change Adjustments (MCA), and new program initiatives.

• Review and approve all change notices, ensuring that checklists, Lessons Learned (LL), and Engineering Best Practices (E-BPs) are updated and consistently aligned.

• Lead Technical Cost Reduction (TCR) and Value Optimization (VO) efforts, working closely with PRC, DVC (Development Validation Center), and VO teams to identify and implement efficiency improvements.

• Represent CE in managing the "lessons learned" document for the program, ensuring timely updates are provided to Technical Specialists (TS) for incorporation into E-BPs.

• Periodically review transmission and driveline system and applicable component “Validation Completion” status with the DVC team, providing comprehensive updates to the CE.

• Coordinate Design Review Board Technical Reviews (DRBTR), acting as the keeper of "follow-up items" and making decisions on issuing GIMS (Global Issue Management System) for problem resolution.

• Manage CQI (Continuous Quality Improvement) and GIMS cross-functional task force teams in close collaboration with ACE, establishing priorities, developing action plans, tracking progress, and aligning initiatives lists.

• Escalate resource issues as needed to CE and Senior Management for PRC to ensure project continuity.

• Undertake and manage special projects as assigned, contributing to broader engineering initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities are heavily focused on the execution and coordination of complex engineering processes within a structured automotive product development framework. The emphasis on DFMEA, DVP&R, BOM management, build readiness, and cross-functional team leadership highlights the need for a highly organized and detail-oriented engineer with strong project management capabilities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Applied Physics, Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Chemical, or Computer Engineering, or a closely related engineering field.

• Preferred: Master's degree in an engineering-related field.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive engineering experience in product development design and release.

• A minimum of 2 years of direct experience in propulsion systems, specifically focusing on transmissions and drivelines.

• Demonstrated experience successfully leading collaborative and global engineering teams.

• Proficiency in understanding and applying typical automotive manufacturing and quality processes.

• Preferred: Design for Six Sigma certification.

Required Skills:

• Transmission Systems Engineering: In-depth knowledge of transmission and driveline system architecture, components, and integration principles.

• Product Development Lifecycle: Proven experience managing design and release processes from concept through production.

• DFMEA & DVP&R: Strong experience in conducting Design Failure Mode & Effects Analysis (DFMEA) and developing/executing Design Verification Plans & Reports (DVP&R).

• GD&T: Proficiency in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) for component and assembly design.

• Project Management: Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, including scheduling, resource allocation, and milestone tracking.

• Supplier Management: Experience leading and managing external suppliers, ensuring quality and timely delivery of components and services.

• Technical Cost Reduction: Demonstrated ability to lead or contribute to Technical Cost Reduction (TCR) or Value Optimization (VO) initiatives.

• BOM Management: Skill in managing Bill of Materials (BOM) complexity charts and understanding assembly part number definitions.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Proven ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams including CAE, manufacturing, validation, and quality.

• Problem Solving: Training and practical experience in structured problem-solving techniques.

• Stakeholder Management: Ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships, manage uncertainty, and drive change through effective communication.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Functional knowledge of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Project.

• English Language Proficiency: Advanced English language skills (90% Read and Write).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Virtual Analysis and CAE tools.

• Familiarity with CQI and GIMS issue management systems.

• Understanding of Engineering Best Practices (E-BPs) and Lessons Learned (LL) processes.

• Knowledge of build readiness processes and fixture development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a blend of technical expertise in automotive powertrain systems and strong project/program management skills. The emphasis on DFMEA, DVP&R, and GD&T indicates a need for a rigorous engineering mindset focused on design robustness and validation. The requirement for global team leadership and stakeholder management points to the need for excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Robustness Case Studies: Examples showcasing the application of DFMEA and DRBFM to identify and mitigate potential failure modes in complex mechanical systems, demonstrating a proactive approach to design quality.

• Product Development Project Examples: Detailed case studies of product development cycles managed, highlighting responsibilities in design release, BOM management, and coordination with manufacturing or suppliers.

• System Integration Demonstrations: Evidence of managing the integration of multiple components or subsystems, detailing how interfaces were defined, validated, and potential conflicts resolved.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Documentation of contributions to technical cost reduction (TCR) efforts, value optimization (VO) projects, or improvements in engineering workflows, with quantifiable results.

Process Documentation:

• DFMEA/DRBFM Documentation: Samples or descriptions of DFMEA/DRBFM documentation, illustrating the process of risk assessment, control plan development, and the linkage to DVP actions.

• DVP&R and Validation Reports: Examples of Design Verification Plans and Reports, demonstrating a structured approach to testing and validation, including the interpretation of results and their impact on design decisions.

• BOM Management Artifacts: Visuals or descriptions of BOM complexity charts, assembly part number definitions, or change management processes related to product releases.

• Cross-Functional Workflow Examples: Visual representations or descriptions of workflows involving multiple departments (e.g., Design, CAE, Manufacturing, Validation), showcasing how integration and communication were managed.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should strongly emphasize the candidate's ability to manage complex engineering processes and demonstrate tangible results. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their experience in risk assessment (DFMEA/DRBFM), validation planning (DVP&R), and the coordination of product development activities, particularly within the context of automotive transmissions and drivelines.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

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

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) plan with potential company match, offering long-term financial security.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure work-life balance.

• Employee Vehicle Discount Programs: Access to discounts on Stellantis vehicles and parts.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications (e.g., Design for Six Sigma), and attendance at relevant industry conferences.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Coverage to provide financial protection for employees and their families.

• Wellness Programs: Initiatives focused on employee health and well-being.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, there may be flexibility required to align with global team schedules or to meet critical program milestones, including occasional extended hours or weekend work during peak periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on general market data for engineering roles in the automotive sector in the Detroit metropolitan area. Stellantis's specific benefits package is comprehensive, aligning with major automotive manufacturers. The working hours are standard but imply a need for adaptability given the nature of product development and global team coordination.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing & Mobility Services

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees)

Founded: 2021 (formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group)

Team Structure:

• The Chief Engineering (CE) team operates as a fully accountable single point technical contact for transmission and driveline products, encompassing current production, new development, and advanced projects.

• The Design Systems Engineer (DSE) reports to the Chief Engineer and acts as a crucial intermediary between the CE group and Product Release Coordination (PRC).

Methodology:

• Emphasis on structured engineering processes, including rigorous design reviews, DFMEA/DRBFM for risk management, and comprehensive DVP&R for validation.

• A data-driven approach is evident through the management of virtual analysis, CAE, and the tracking of validation completion status.

• Focus on continuous improvement is highlighted by the management of lessons learned, TCR/VO initiatives, and CQI/GIMS task forces.

• Agile project management principles are implicitly required through the need to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously and adapt to program changes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Stellantis, as a global automotive giant, operates with highly structured engineering processes. The culture likely values a blend of technical rigor, collaborative problem-solving, and a results-oriented approach to product development. The emphasis on global teams and diverse stakeholders suggests a need for strong cross-cultural communication skills and adaptability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level to Senior Engineer

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Systems Engineer reports directly to the Chief Engineer for Transmissions and Driveline.

• They will interact extensively with Design Release Engineers (DREs), Virtual Analysis/CAE teams, Manufacturing Engineers, Suppliers, and the Development Validation Center (DVC).

Operations Impact:

• This role has a direct and significant impact on the quality, performance, cost, and timely release of transmission and driveline systems, which are core components of Stellantis vehicles.

• Effective system integration and validation by the DSE contribute to overall vehicle reliability, customer satisfaction, and reduced warranty costs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in transmission and driveline systems, potentially moving towards Chief Engineer roles or specialized technical expert positions.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Transition into roles managing larger engineering programs, leading teams in areas like vehicle integration, or moving into management positions within Product Development or Engineering.

• Process Improvement Expertise: Develop a career path focused on engineering process optimization, quality management systems, or operational excellence within the automotive sector.

• Global Project Management: Gain experience managing complex, global product development projects, which can lead to leadership roles in international engineering operations.

• Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) Path: Leverage the preferred qualification to pursue advanced certifications and lead quality improvement initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within a large automotive organization, allowing engineers to deepen their technical specialization or move into broader program management and leadership roles. The emphasis on process management and cross-functional collaboration is key to career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Corporate Engineering Office Environment

Office Location(s): Auburn Hills, Michigan, USA. This location is a major hub for automotive engineering and development in the region.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be a professional office environment within Stellantis's engineering facilities in Auburn Hills.

• It will likely support collaborative work, with access to meeting rooms, design review spaces, and potentially specialized engineering software workstations.

• Access to essential operations tools and technology, including high-performance computing for CAE, PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems, and communication platforms, will be standard.

Work Schedule:

• Primarily a standard 9-to-5, Monday-to-Friday schedule, reflecting the "On-site" and full-time nature of the role.

• However, the dynamic nature of automotive product development often necessitates flexibility. Candidates should be prepared for potential extended hours or weekend work to meet critical program deadlines, manage prototype builds, or align with global team activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Auburn Hills suggests a traditional corporate engineering setting. The emphasis on collaboration and managing global teams implies that while the core hours are standard, adaptability to project demands is crucial.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion with the Chief Engineer or Hiring Manager focusing on technical expertise, specific project experiences, and problem-solving approaches.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to complete a technical assessment or present a case study showcasing their approach to a complex engineering problem related to transmission systems, DFMEA, DVP&R, or system integration. This is where portfolio elements would be crucial.

• Cross-Functional Team Interview: Interviews with key stakeholders the DSE would collaborate with (e.g., DREs, CAE engineers, validation leads) to assess collaboration skills and ability to influence.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior manager or director to discuss long-term career aspirations, strategic thinking, and overall fit within Stellantis's engineering organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., reduced warranty, improved performance, cost savings, timely release).

• Showcase Process Rigor: Highlight your experience with DFMEA, DVP&R, GD&T, and BOM management by providing specific examples of how you applied these methodologies.

• Demonstrate Systems Thinking: Include examples where you managed the integration of multiple components or subsystems, illustrating your ability to see the bigger picture and manage interfaces.

• Quantify Achievements: Use numbers and data wherever possible to demonstrate the scale and impact of your contributions.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experiences most relevant to transmission and driveline systems, and clearly articulate how your skills align with Stellantis's needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• DFMEA/DVP&R Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach creating or reviewing a DFMEA/DVP&R for a specific transmission or driveline component, including identifying potential failure modes and validation methods.

• System Integration Problems: Practice explaining how you would troubleshoot and resolve integration issues between different vehicle systems or components.

• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Think about how you would handle disagreements with suppliers, manufacturing, or other engineering teams regarding design decisions or timelines.

• Technical Cost Reduction Ideas: Be ready to propose potential areas for cost savings in transmission design or manufacturing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess technical depth, process adherence, and collaborative capabilities. A well-prepared candidate will have a portfolio that directly supports their answers and demonstrates their practical application of engineering principles and project management skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with CATIA or similar automotive-grade CAD software for viewing and understanding 3D designs and assemblies.

• PLM Systems: Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems (e.g., Teamcenter, ENOVIA) for managing product data, revisions, and release workflows.

• Project Management Software: Tools like Microsoft Project, Jira, or similar for scheduling, task tracking, and resource management.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced use of Excel for data analysis, PowerPoint for presentations, and Word for documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Excel for data manipulation and analysis, potentially SQL for data extraction from databases.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience interpreting and contributing to reports generated from engineering databases or simulation results.

• CAE/Simulation Software: Familiarity with the output and reporting of Virtual Analysis/CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, MSC Nastran) for structural, thermal, or performance simulations.

CRM & Automation:

• Issue Tracking Systems: Experience with systems like GIMS (Global Issue Management System) or similar for tracking and managing engineering issues and defects.

• Change Management Systems: Tools used for managing engineering change notices (ECNs) and their impact on product releases.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication, document sharing, and project collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack reflects the needs of a large automotive engineering organization, emphasizing robust design and data management tools, along with strong analytical and collaborative platforms. Proficiency in CATIA and PLM systems is often a baseline requirement for automotive design roles.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence & Rigor: A strong emphasis on detailed engineering, adherence to robust processes (DFMEA, DVP&R), and a commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable products.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The role inherently requires working with numerous cross-functional teams globally. A culture that values open communication, mutual respect, and shared problem-solving is essential.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to find better ways of doing things, whether through technical solutions, process enhancements, or cost reductions (TCR/VO), is likely embedded in the culture.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking full responsibility for assigned systems and processes, ensuring timely delivery and meeting program objectives, is a core expectation.

• Customer Focus: Ultimately, all engineering efforts are directed towards delivering vehicles that meet customer expectations for performance, safety, and reliability.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly matrixed and cross-functional, requiring proactive engagement with various departments (Design, CAE, Manufacturing, Validation, Procurement, Quality).

• Emphasis on clear communication, data-driven decision-making, and structured review processes (design reviews, DRBTR, build readiness teams).

• A "lessons learned" approach encourages knowledge sharing and the continuous refinement of engineering practices.

• Expectation of open feedback exchange, particularly within task forces focused on quality improvement (CQI, GIMS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Stellantis, as a major automotive player, will likely be results-oriented, team-centric, and process-driven. The DSE role necessitates navigating this environment effectively, balancing technical demands with strong interpersonal and collaborative skills.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Systems: Managing the intricate integration and interdependencies of numerous components within transmission and driveline systems, especially in evolving powertrain architectures.

• Global Team Coordination: Effectively communicating and aligning with diverse global teams, suppliers, and stakeholders across different time zones and cultural backgrounds.

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Simultaneously managing multiple projects with varying deadlines, technical requirements, and resource constraints.

• Navigating Uncertainty: Addressing unforeseen technical issues, supplier challenges, or program changes while maintaining progress and delivering robust solutions.

• Driving Change: Influencing stakeholders and driving adoption of new processes or design improvements across functional boundaries.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen Powertrain Expertise: Gain advanced knowledge in next-generation transmission technologies, electrification, and driveline systems.

• Mastery of Engineering Processes: Become an expert in critical automotive engineering processes like DFMEA, DVP&R, GD&T, and systems integration.

• Leadership Development: Develop skills in leading cross-functional teams, managing project portfolios, and influencing strategic decisions.

• Continuous Improvement Methodologies: Further training and application of Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and other operational excellence frameworks.

• Exposure to Advanced Technologies: Involvement in projects utilizing cutting-edge simulation tools, advanced manufacturing techniques, and emerging powertrain technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to complex automotive product development, requiring resilience and adaptability. The growth opportunities are substantial, allowing for deep technical specialization or a transition into broader leadership roles within a global automotive enterprise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Systems Integration Approach: "Describe your approach to integrating a new transmission component into an existing vehicle platform. What are the key interfaces you would focus on, and how would you manage potential conflicts?" (Focus on demonstrating structured thinking, identification of critical interfaces, and a proactive problem-solving methodology).

• DFMEA/DVP&R Application: "Walk us through a specific DFMEA you developed or reviewed for a complex mechanical system. What were the most challenging failure modes to identify, and how did your DVP&R address them?" (Prepare a concrete example showcasing your risk assessment skills and systematic validation planning).

• Cross-Functional Leadership: "How do you ensure alignment between design engineering, CAE, and manufacturing teams when releasing a new component? Provide an example of a time you had to influence other departments to adopt your design or process recommendation." (Highlight your communication, negotiation, and influence strategies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Stellantis's Engineering Focus: "What do you understand about Stellantis's current engineering priorities, particularly in transmission and driveline technology, and how do you see this role contributing to those goals?" (Research Stellantis's latest product launches, technology roadmaps, and sustainability initiatives).

• Handling Pressure: "This role involves managing multiple complex projects simultaneously under tight deadlines. Describe a situation where you successfully managed competing priorities and delivered under pressure." (Showcase your organizational skills, prioritization techniques, and ability to perform under stress).

• Continuous Improvement: "How do you incorporate 'lessons learned' into your design and development processes? Can you give an example of a process improvement you implemented?" (Demonstrate your commitment to learning and operational efficiency).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Key Projects: Select 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in transmission/driveline systems, DFMEA/DVP&R, system integration, and product release.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, use a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework. Clearly define the problem, your specific actions and methodologies used, and the quantifiable outcomes.

• Emphasize Process and Tools: Visually or verbally, demonstrate your understanding and application of engineering tools and processes (e.g., show snippets of DFMEAs, DVP&Rs, BOM charts, process flows).

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics (e.g., percentage improvement, cost savings, reduction in issues, successful milestone achievement) to demonstrate the value of your contributions.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your specific contributions, decision-making rationale, and technical challenges encountered.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of automotive engineering processes, strong problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to manage complexity and stakeholders effectively. A well-structured portfolio is critical for substantiating claims and showcasing practical experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Systems Engineer position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight specific keywords and responsibilities mentioned in this job description, such as "Transmission Systems," "Driveline," "DFMEA," "DVP&R," "GD&T," "Product Development," "System Integration," "BOM Management," and "Supplier Management." Quantify your achievements with specific metrics where possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a concise portfolio (PDF or online link) that showcases your most relevant projects. Focus on case studies demonstrating your expertise in risk assessment (DFMEA/DRBFM), validation planning (DVP&R), system integration, and product release management within automotive engineering.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Stellantis's current product lineup, technological advancements (especially in powertrain and electric vehicles), and recent news. Understand their commitment to innovation and engineering excellence.

• Interview Practice: Prepare for technical questions by reviewing fundamental concepts in transmission systems, DFMEA, DVP&R, and GD&T. Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method and be ready to present your portfolio highlights concisely and persuasively.

⚠️ 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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