Engineer - Automated Design Systems

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Engineer - Automated Design Systems Company: Toyota Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Engineering - Automated Design Systems / Automotive Engineering Date Posted: 2025-10-06 Experience Level: Mid-Level (3+ years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the development and integration of cutting-edge automated driving systems (ADS) for Toyota and Lexus vehicles, focusing on system-level excellence and adherence to stringent safety and performance standards.
• Capture, decompose, and maintain traceable, testable system requirements from concept through final release, ensuring alignment across software, hardware, and vehicle integration.
• Lead critical risk analysis processes, specifically Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) or similar methodologies, to mitigate potential issues and translate findings into actionable design improvements.
• Collaborate closely with software developers, systems engineers, and external suppliers to shape control and decision logic, define interfaces, and embed robust safety concepts within the ADS architecture.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Toyota's Integrated Vehicle Systems (IVS) Department, indicating a focus on the holistic integration of automated driving features into the overall vehicle architecture. The emphasis on "systems thinking" and "hands-on software and test integration" suggests a role that bridges the gap between high-level system design and practical implementation and validation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• System Requirements Management: Capture, decompose, and maintain traceable, testable requirements from concept through release, ensuring comprehensive coverage and alignment with project objectives.
• Risk Analysis Leadership: Proactively lead Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) sessions, identify potential risks, translate findings into concrete design actions, and ensure timely closure of identified issues.
• Developer Collaboration & Integration: Shape control and decision logic (primarily in C/C++), define and align system interfaces, and embed safety concepts to ensure robust performance and reliability of automated driving functions.
• Integration & Verification Coordination: Manage and coordinate Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), and vehicle-level testing activities, ensuring clean and effective system-to-software integration.
• Action Item Management: Maintain detailed trackers for action items, diligently follow up with internal teams and external suppliers, and ensure accountability for task completion to drive project momentum.
• Stakeholder & Supplier Liaison: Act as the primary day-to-day interface with external stakeholders and suppliers, fostering strong relationships and ensuring clear communication of technical requirements and project status.
• Process Improvement: Continuously identify gaps in current engineering processes, propose and implement repeatable improvements to enhance reliability, efficiency, and overall development velocity.
• Code & Review Contribution: Participate actively in code reviews, create pull requests, and support Continuous Integration (CI) checks that are directly tied to validated requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of analytical, collaborative, and hands-on technical work. The emphasis on "traceable, testable requirements" and "DRBFM leadership" points towards a structured engineering approach aligned with automotive industry standards like ISO 26262 and ASPICE, even if not explicitly listed as primary requirements. The inclusion of code reviews and CI checks indicates a role that is deeply embedded in the software development lifecycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (e.g., Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering), Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or a closely related technical field.

Experience:

• A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in automotive systems engineering, with a strong focus on Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) or Automated Driving Systems (ADS). Experience in other safety-critical domains like chassis or powertrain control systems will also be considered.
• Demonstrated experience of 3+ years managing complex requirements and interfaces for embedded or vehicle systems, utilizing industry-standard tools such as Jama, Jira, or Azure DevOps.
• Proven track record of 3+ years in leading Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) or similar risk assessment processes, with a strong emphasis on driving follow-through and resolution.

Required Skills:

• Systems Engineering Expertise: Deep understanding of systems engineering principles applied to complex automotive applications, including requirements decomposition and lifecycle management.
• Requirements Management Tools: Proficiency in using tools like Jama Connect, Jira, or Azure DevOps for capturing, tracking, and managing system requirements and design artifacts.
• Risk Analysis Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead and facilitate DFMEA sessions, identify potential failure modes, and drive mitigation strategies.
• Software Literacy (C/C++): Strong ability to read, understand, and collaborate on C/C++ code, facilitating effective communication with software development teams.
• Automotive Communication Protocols: Working knowledge of in-vehicle communication protocols such as CAN, LIN, and Automotive Ethernet, along with familiarity with associated tooling.
• Documentation & Traceability: Excellent documentation skills with a keen attention to detail, ensuring robust traceability between requirements, design, and test cases.
• Communication & Team Alignment: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, enabling effective collaboration and alignment across diverse internal teams and external stakeholders.

Preferred Skills:

• Functional Safety & Standards: Experience with industry standards such as ISO 26262 (Functional Safety), SOTIF (ISO 21448), and/or ASPICE compliance.
• Advanced Requirements Tools: Familiarity with additional requirements management platforms like Polarion.
• Testing & Simulation Environments: Hands-on experience with Model-in-the-Loop (MIL), Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) environments, including proficiency with the Vector CANoe toolchain.
• Scripting & Analysis: Proficiency in scripting and data analysis using Python and/or MATLAB/Simulink for simulation, testing, and data interpretation.
• Modern Automotive Protocols: Knowledge of communication protocols like SOME/IP, diagnostics (UDS), and concepts related to Over-The-Air (OTA) updates.
• CI/CD Practices: Experience with Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) workflows and associated tools such as Git, GitLab, or Jenkins.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Added bonus if you have" section strongly implies that experience with ISO 26262, SOTIF, and ASPICE is highly valued, suggesting that candidates with a background in safety-critical systems development will have a significant advantage. The mention of specific tools like Jama, Polarion, Jira/Azure DevOps, and Vector CANoe indicates the expected technical stack for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Requirements Traceability Case Studies: Showcase examples of how you have captured, decomposed, and maintained traceable requirements for complex embedded systems, demonstrating a clear link from high-level needs to detailed specifications.
• Risk Management Demonstrations: Present case studies where you led DFMEA or similar risk assessment activities, illustrating your approach to identifying potential failures, proposing mitigation strategies, and ensuring closure.
• System Integration Examples: Provide evidence of successful integration efforts between different software and hardware components, detailing the challenges faced and the solutions implemented to ensure seamless functionality.
• Process Improvement Initiatives: Highlight instances where you identified inefficiencies in engineering processes and implemented improvements that led to measurable gains in reliability, efficiency, or development velocity.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to demonstrate a strong understanding of documenting complex engineering processes, including:
  • Workflow Design and Optimization: Ability to map out and refine workflows for requirements management, risk analysis, and system integration.
  • Implementation and Automation: Experience in detailing the implementation steps for new processes or tools, and leveraging automation where possible to enhance efficiency.
  • Measurement and Performance Analysis: Skills in defining metrics to track the effectiveness of processes and analyzing performance data to identify areas for further optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an Engineer role focused on automated design systems, a portfolio should emphasize structured engineering practices. Demonstrating a clear, traceable link between requirements, design decisions, and validation activities is paramount. Highlighting experience with process improvement and risk mitigation will be critical.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The salary range for an Engineer - Automated Design Systems with 3+ years of experience in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is estimated to be between $85,000 and $115,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar engineering roles in the automotive sector within the specified geographic region, considering the required experience level and specialized technical skills.

Benefits:

• Team Member Vehicle Purchase Discount: Opportunity to purchase Toyota vehicles at a discounted rate.
• Toyota Team Member Lease Vehicle Program: Access to lease vehicles through a dedicated program.
• Comprehensive Health Care and Wellness Plans: Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage, along with wellness programs for employees and their families.
• Toyota 401(k) Savings Plan: A competitive retirement savings plan with a company match, plus an annual retirement contribution from Toyota regardless of employee contribution.
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off: Generous provisions for paid holidays and accrued paid time off for work-life balance.
• Relocation Assistance: Support provided for candidates who need to relocate to the Ann Arbor area.
• Professional Development: Access to programs for career advancement and tuition reimbursement.
• Work-Life Support: Referral services for childcare, schools, and other family needs.
• Tax Advantaged Accounts: Options for Health Savings Account (HSA), Health Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and Dependent Care FSA.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position with standard working hours typically around 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, Toyota generally fosters a supportive work environment that may allow for some flexibility in scheduling, particularly for tasks that can be performed independently outside of core meeting times, subject to team and project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for engineering roles in the automotive sector in Michigan. Specific compensation will be determined by the candidate's qualifications, experience, and Toyota's internal compensation structure. The benefits listed are directly from the job description, highlighting Toyota's comprehensive package for its employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing & Mobility Solutions. Toyota is a global leader in automotive manufacturing, renowned for its commitment to quality, durability, and innovation. The company is actively shaping the future of mobility through advancements in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and connected technologies. Company Size: Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) is a large, established corporation with a significant global presence. The Ann Arbor location, specifically within the Integrated Vehicle Systems (IVS) department, likely comprises a substantial team of engineers and specialists dedicated to vehicle development and integration. Founded: Toyota Motor Corporation was founded in 1937. Its long history signifies a stable, established organization with deep expertise and a long-term vision for its products and employees.

Team Structure:

• Departmental Focus: The role sits within the Integrated Vehicle Systems (IVS) Department, which focuses on the integration and functionality of various vehicle systems, particularly those related to automation and intelligence.
• Reporting Hierarchy: The position reports to the Senior Engineering Manager of IVS, indicating a clear reporting line and opportunities for mentorship and guidance from experienced leadership.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: This role requires close collaboration with software development teams, hardware engineers, systems architects, testing and validation teams, and potentially external suppliers and partners involved in automated driving technology.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Development: Toyota emphasizes a data-driven approach to product development, utilizing rigorous testing, analysis, and feedback loops to refine systems and ensure quality.
• Systems Thinking & Integration: The core methodology revolves around understanding how individual components and software modules interact within the larger vehicle system to achieve desired automated driving functionalities.
• Process Excellence & Continuous Improvement: A strong focus is placed on refining engineering processes, adhering to standards like ASPICE, and leveraging methodologies like DFMEA to ensure reliability and safety.

Company Website: https://careers.toyota.com/us/en

📝 Enhancement Note: Toyota's reputation for quality and reliability is a significant cultural aspect that will permeate the engineering culture. The emphasis on "Dream. Do. Grow." suggests a company that values innovation, execution, and employee development within a structured, safety-conscious environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as an Engineer, typically considered a mid-level position. It requires a solid foundation of 3+ years of experience and involves taking ownership of specific system requirements and processes, collaborating with development teams, and acting as a liaison with external parties. It's a position that offers significant technical depth and exposure to critical automotive technologies. Reporting Structure: The Engineer reports to a Senior Engineering Manager. This structure provides direct mentorship and guidance from experienced leadership, offering opportunities to learn advanced engineering practices and project management skills. It also implies a level of autonomy in managing assigned tasks and responsibilities. Operations Impact: The work of an Automated Design Systems Engineer directly impacts the safety, performance, and future capabilities of Toyota and Lexus vehicles. By ensuring robust requirements, effective integration, and thorough risk mitigation for automated driving systems, this role contributes to Toyota's strategic vision for mobility innovation and market leadership in advanced automotive technology.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of automated driving systems, such as sensor fusion, path planning, control algorithms, or functional safety.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to move into roles with broader system integration responsibilities, project management, or specialized areas like validation engineering or software architecture.
• Leadership Development: Progression towards senior engineering roles, team lead positions, or management tracks within the IVS department or other related engineering functions.
• Continuous Learning: Access to Toyota's professional development programs, tuition reimbursement, and potential for certifications in areas like ISO 26262, ASPICE, or specialized automotive technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mid-level classification suggests that candidates are expected to be largely self-sufficient in their core responsibilities but will benefit from mentorship for advanced problem-solving and strategic thinking. The emphasis on growth within Toyota indicates a commitment to internal talent development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position, indicating a traditional office and potentially lab/testing environment within Toyota's facilities in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The work will likely involve a mix of individual focused work, team collaboration, and potentially hands-on interaction with development or testing equipment. Office Location(s): Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States. This location is a hub for automotive research and development, offering a collaborative environment with other industry professionals. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates close interaction with fellow engineers, developers, and project managers, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for problem-solving and knowledge sharing.
• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard engineering software, simulation tools, development environments, and potentially test benches or vehicles pertinent to automated driving system development.
• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for team meetings, design reviews, code reviews, and cross-functional discussions to ensure alignment and drive project progress.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically around 40 hours per week. As an on-site role, consistent presence is expected, though Toyota may offer some flexibility depending on specific team needs and project phases, particularly for tasks that can be completed independently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests a preference for direct collaboration and access to physical resources, which is common for hardware-software integration roles in the automotive industry.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the core requirements.
• Technical Phone/Video Interview: An initial discussion with a recruiter or hiring manager to gauge overall fit and basic technical understanding.
• In-depth Technical Interviews: Multiple rounds of interviews, potentially including:
  • Systems Engineering & Requirements: Questions focused on your experience with requirements capture, decomposition, traceability, and management tools (Jama, Jira). Expect scenario-based questions about handling conflicting requirements or scope changes.
  • Risk Analysis & Safety: Detailed discussions about your experience with DFMEA, ISO 26262, SOTIF, and how you approach safety-critical design.
  • Software & Integration: Technical questions about C/C++ code understanding, automotive communication protocols (CAN, Ethernet), and experience with SIL/HIL testing. You might be asked to walk through a simple code snippet or explain integration challenges.
  • Problem-Solving & Collaboration: Case studies or hypothetical scenarios requiring you to outline your problem-solving approach, decision-making process, and how you would collaborate with different teams or suppliers.
• Portfolio Presentation/Review: Candidates may be asked to present a selection of their work, focusing on specific projects that demonstrate their skills in requirements management, risk analysis, system integration, or process improvement.
• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership to assess strategic thinking, cultural fit, and overall potential contribution to the team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Traceability: Clearly demonstrate how your work connects requirements to design, implementation, and testing. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.
• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, quantify the results of your work. For example, "Reduced requirement-related defects by X%" or "Successfully integrated Y modules, improving system stability."
• Highlight Process Improvement: Showcase instances where you improved engineering processes, detailing the problem, your solution, and the positive outcomes.
• Showcase Collaboration: Include examples that illustrate your ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
• Tailor to ADS: Emphasize projects and skills most relevant to Automated Design Systems, such as experience with safety standards, embedded systems, and complex integration challenges.

Challenge Preparation:

• System Design Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical system design challenges related to ADAS/ADS features, requiring you to outline requirements, potential risks, and integration strategies.
• Requirements Decomposition: Practice breaking down high-level system functionalities into detailed, testable requirements.
• Troubleshooting: Anticipate questions about debugging complex embedded systems or resolving integration issues between different components.
• Process Application: Be ready to discuss how you would apply methodologies like DFMEA or ASPICE principles to a given scenario.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be rigorous, covering both technical depth and the ability to apply engineering principles in a structured automotive development environment. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates achievements and methodologies will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Requirements Management: Jama Connect, Jira, Azure DevOps (or similar ALM/PLM tools). Proficiency in at least one is essential, with familiarity in others being a strong asset.
• Development & Collaboration: C/C++ development environments, Git (for version control), potentially GitLab or Jenkins for CI/CD integration.
• Automotive Communication & Diagnostics: Awareness and potential use of tools for CAN, LIN, Automotive Ethernet, UDS diagnostics, and SOME/IP.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Simulation & Analysis: MATLAB/Simulink for modeling and simulation. Python for scripting, automation, and data analysis.
• Test Automation: Experience with MIL/SIL/HIL environments and associated tooling.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly CRM-focused, understanding how system requirements feed into broader product development lifecycles is key. Tools like Jira/Azure DevOps serve as project management and workflow automation platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on automotive-specific engineering tools and software development practices. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these tools and their ability to adapt to Toyota's specific toolchain.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Reliability: A core value at Toyota, emphasizing meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to producing defect-free systems that meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
• Continuous Improvement (Kaizen): A philosophy of ongoing, incremental improvement in processes, products, and methodologies, encouraging proactive identification of inefficiencies and enhancements.
• Respect for People: Fostering a work environment where diverse perspectives are valued, teamwork is paramount, and every individual is treated with dignity.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing empirical data, rigorous testing, and analytical insights to inform design choices, validate system performance, and drive engineering decisions.
• Safety First: An unwavering commitment to safety in all aspects of design, development, and testing, particularly critical for automated driving systems.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A strong emphasis on seamless collaboration and communication between different engineering disciplines (software, hardware, systems) and departments (R&D, testing, manufacturing).
• Open Feedback Exchange: Encouraging constructive feedback during code reviews, design discussions, and process improvement initiatives to foster learning and elevate overall team performance.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of technical expertise, lessons learned, and best practices across the team and organization to build collective knowledge and accelerate development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Toyota's deeply ingrained culture of quality, continuous improvement, and respect for people will significantly influence the team's working dynamics and expectations for its engineers.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Automated Driving Systems: Navigating the intricate interplay of sensors, software algorithms, and vehicle dynamics to ensure safe and reliable autonomous operation presents a significant technical challenge.
• Evolving Standards and Regulations: Keeping pace with rapidly changing industry standards (e.g., ISO 26262, ASPICE), safety protocols (SOTIF), and evolving regulatory landscapes for autonomous vehicles requires continuous learning and adaptation.
• Supplier and Stakeholder Management: Effectively coordinating with multiple internal teams and external suppliers, each with their own priorities and development cycles, to achieve seamless system integration.
• Balancing Innovation with Safety: The imperative to innovate and develop cutting-edge automated features must be meticulously balanced with the absolute requirement for safety and reliability in a safety-critical domain.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to training programs and resources focused on automotive functional safety, cybersecurity, AI/ML for autonomous driving, and advanced vehicle systems.
• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Opportunities to attend relevant industry conferences and pursue professional certifications that enhance expertise in areas like systems engineering, functional safety, or specific automotive technologies.
• Mentorship and Leadership Development: Engaging with experienced senior engineers and managers for mentorship, and participating in leadership development programs to foster career progression towards senior or management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in ADAS/ADS development at a major automotive OEM like Toyota are substantial, offering significant opportunities for engineers to grow their skills and contribute to groundbreaking technology.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Scenario: "Describe a time you had to capture requirements for a complex embedded system. What challenges did you face, and how did you ensure traceability and testability?" (Focus on your process, tools used, and how you handled ambiguity.)
• Scenario: "Walk me through your experience leading a DFMEA session. What was the system, what were the key risks identified, and what actions did you drive to mitigate them?" (Emphasize your leadership, analytical approach, and follow-through.)
• Scenario: "Imagine a new sensor needs to be integrated into our ADS. How would you approach defining the interfaces and ensuring seamless integration with existing software modules?" (Discuss your systems thinking, communication strategy, and potential risks.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research: Understand Toyota's current ADAS/ADS initiatives, its vision for future mobility, and its core values (Quality, Continuous Improvement, Respect).
• Question: "How do you align with Toyota's value of 'Continuous Improvement' in your daily engineering work?" (Provide specific examples of process improvements you've implemented.)
• Question: "How would you handle a situation where a key supplier is falling behind on delivering a critical component for your system integration?" (Demonstrate your collaboration, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your skills in requirements management, risk analysis, system integration, and process improvement, particularly those related to automotive or embedded systems.
• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role and responsibilities, the solutions you implemented (highlighting tools and methodologies), and the quantifiable results or impact.
• Focus on Traceability & Safety: Explicitly demonstrate how you ensured requirements traceability and considered safety aspects (e.g., through DFMEA).
• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Prepare to answer detailed questions about your design choices, technical challenges, and decision-making process for each presented project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess not only technical acumen but also your ability to work within Toyota's established engineering framework, emphasizing process, safety, and continuous improvement.

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📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Engineer - Automated Design Systems position:

• Submit your application through the Toyota Careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight experience with requirements management tools (Jama, Jira), automotive systems (ADAS/ADS), risk analysis (DFMEA), C/C++ software literacy, and automotive communication protocols (CAN, LIN, Ethernet). Quantify your achievements wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select relevant project examples that demonstrate your skills in requirements traceability, risk mitigation, system integration, and process improvement. Be ready to discuss these in detail during interviews.
• Research Toyota: Familiarize yourself with Toyota's latest advancements in automated driving, its commitment to safety, and its core company values. This will help you articulate your fit during interviews.
• Practice Technical Scenarios: Prepare to answer questions related to systems engineering, requirements management, risk analysis, automotive protocols, and C/C++ code understanding. Practice articulating your problem-solving approach.

⚠️ 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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