Lead Design Systems Engineer, Engine and Engine Hardware Release

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Design Systems Engineer, Engine and Engine Hardware Release

Company: Scout Motors

Location: Novi, Michigan, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Operations (Powertrain Systems)

Date Posted: 2026-06-03T16:05:53

Experience Level: 12+ Years

Remote Status: On-site (4-5 days/week in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for the end-to-end system engineering execution of the Harvester™ gasoline Range Extender system, a key component for Scout's electric pickup truck and rugged SUV offerings.

• It involves leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex powertrain components and systems from concept through production, ensuring timely release of work products and adherence to technical specifications.

• The position requires strong technical fundamentals in powertrain engineering, particularly within the passenger vehicle, truck, and SUV segments, with a focus on internal combustion engine controls and calibration.

• This Lead Engineer will be instrumental in identifying, escalating, and driving mitigation plans for technical and timing-related program risks, ensuring program success and efficient resource allocation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Lead Design Systems Engineer," the core responsibilities and requirements clearly place this role within the realm of Powertrain System Engineering and Program Management for hardware release in a automotive manufacturing context. The emphasis on "Engine and Engine Hardware Release" and "Harvester gasoline Range Extender system" points to a specialized engineering leadership position focused on bringing physical components to market. This is less about software design systems and more about the engineering systems for physical product development and release.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• System Engineering Execution: Lead the full system engineering execution for the Harvester™ gasoline Range Extender system, encompassing the inverter/generator, engine assembly, fuel systems, air induction, and exhaust subsystems.

• Technical Guidance & Support: Conduct regular project reviews, provide essential technical guidance, and offer support to the powertrain engineering team throughout the development lifecycle.

• Work Product Release Management: Ensure peer Design Release Engineers (DREs) and development/validation engineers release work products on time by meticulously maintaining schedules and communicating critical milestones.

• Specification Development: Assist DREs in generating detailed system and sub-system technical specifications that ensure all functional objectives are met and aligned with product requirements.

• Risk Identification & Escalation: Proactively identify program risks and escalate to leadership where appropriate, driving awareness and ensuring timely action and mitigation.

• Program Imperative Tracking: Track and report on Range Extender system imperatives, including critical metrics such as system cost, mass, and investment, to ensure program profitability and efficiency.

• Critical Action Plan Leadership: Lead critical action plans for identified technical and timing-related program risks, spearheading recovery plan efforts across multiple cross-functional teams.

• Innovation Drive: Foster and drive innovation in technology solutions, design and development methods, and the adoption of advanced materials and manufacturing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and cross-functional coordination, common in senior engineering roles focused on product launch. The emphasis on "system engineering execution" and "work product release" indicates a strong focus on the practical application and delivery of hardware components within a structured engineering framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology (Required).

Experience:

• 12+ years of experience managing complex, multi-disciplinary engineering projects, with demonstrated success in bringing programs from concept to production.

Required Skills:

• System Engineering: Proven ability to manage and execute complex system engineering projects, particularly within automotive powertrains.

• Project Management: Expertise in managing multi-disciplinary engineering projects from concept to production, utilizing tools like Gantt charts.

• Powertrain Expertise: Strong technical fundamentals in passenger vehicles, trucks, and SUVs, with a focus on engine and associated subsystems.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a cross-functional environment with departments such as purchasing and manufacturing.

• Interpersonal Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills including accountability, self-motivation, problem-solving, analytical thinking, succinct communication, and the ability to build strong working relationships.

Preferred Skills:

• Design Release Processes: Experience with design release processes for powertrain components and systems.

• ICE Controls & Calibration: Experience with internal combustion engine controls and calibration.

• Root Cause Analysis: Understanding and application of root cause analysis tools such as fishbone analysis, Is-Is Not, 5 Whys (5L5Y), Red X, etc.

• Powertrain Design & Systems: Knowledge of powertrain mechanical design principles, system engineering methodologies, CAE methods, GD&T, 3D CAD, 1D simulation, Teamcenter, and manufacturing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 12+ years coupled with a Bachelor's degree suggests this is a senior-level individual contributor role with significant leadership responsibilities. The preferred skills indicate a desire for candidates with deep, hands-on experience in automotive powertrain development and release processes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• System Design & Integration: Showcase examples of complex system designs and how different components were integrated to achieve functional objectives, particularly within automotive powertrains.

• Project Lifecycle Management: Demonstrate through case studies your involvement in bringing engineering projects from concept to production, highlighting key milestones, challenges overcome, and successful outcomes.

• Technical Specification Examples: Include samples of detailed technical specifications you've generated for systems or sub-systems, illustrating your ability to define requirements clearly and comprehensively.

• Risk Mitigation Case Studies: Present examples of how you identified program risks (technical or timing) and led the development and execution of effective recovery plans.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Illustrate your experience in designing, documenting, and optimizing engineering workflows for powertrain development and hardware release processes.

• System Release Methodologies: Provide examples of how you've managed and documented the release of engineering work products, ensuring adherence to design release processes and quality standards.

• Performance Analysis & Reporting: Showcase your ability to track and report on key program imperatives (cost, mass, investment) and present performance analysis related to system objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority and technical focus, a portfolio demonstrating a track record of successfully delivering complex hardware programs is crucial. This includes not just the final product but the processes and documentation used to get there, showcasing structured engineering discipline and effective management of intricate systems.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $160,000.00 - $192,500.00 Annually

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Insurance: Medical, dental, vision, and income protection plans.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) program with an employer match and immediate vesting.

• Generous Paid Time Off:

  • 20 days of planned PTO (accrued).
  • 40 hours of unplanned PTO.
  • 14 company or floating holidays annually.

• Family Support: Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents.

• Other Paid Leave: Bereavement, jury duty, voting time, and military leave.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time, exempt position.

• Expected to be on-site 4-5 days per week.

• Standard working hours are assumed to be approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the role and location. The benefits package is detailed and competitive, typical for a growing automotive company aiming to attract experienced engineering talent. The on-site requirement is clearly stated, emphasizing the need for in-person collaboration.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing (Electric and Hybrid Vehicles)

Company Size: Growing Startup / Scale-up (implied by the focus on building from the ground up and the recent founding of Scout Motors)

Founded: 2021 (Scout Motors reimagining the brand)

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Powertrain Engineering department, likely reporting to a Director or VP of Powertrain.

• It involves close collaboration with other Design Release Engineers (DREs), development and validation engineers, purchasing, manufacturing, and other cross-functional teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Development: Emphasizes utilizing data for decision-making, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.

• Process Optimization: Focus on improving engineering workflows, design methods, and manufacturing processes for efficiency and effectiveness.

• Agile & Iterative Approach: Implied by the "fast-paced, high-growth environment" and the need to be "comfortable with change."

Company Website: https://scoutmotors.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Scout Motors is positioning itself as a revival of an iconic American brand, aiming to disrupt the automotive market with electrified and range-extended vehicles. The company culture values innovation, collaboration, and a "doer" mentality, which is typical for a startup or scale-up environment focused on rapid product development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Individual Contributor (IC7) with significant leadership and program management responsibilities. This role is a key technical lead within the powertrain hardware development lifecycle.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Director or VP of Powertrain Engineering. Will manage and influence work streams of DREs and validation engineers.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the successful development and launch of Scout's core powertrain systems, influencing vehicle performance, cost, reliability, and market competitiveness. The efficiency and effectiveness of the Harvester™ system are critical to the success of the Scout Traveler SUV and Terra pickup truck.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced powertrain systems, hybrid technologies, and internal combustion engine controls.

• Leadership Advancement: Transition into management roles overseeing larger engineering teams or broader product areas within powertrain or vehicle engineering.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Lead critical cross-functional initiatives and recovery plans, developing broader strategic and program management skills.

• Product Development Lifecycle: Gain extensive experience in all phases of automotive product development, from concept to mass production, within a dynamic startup environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The IC7 leveling code and the 12+ years of experience suggest this is a senior individual contributor role. Growth opportunities would likely involve increasing scope of responsibility, leading more complex projects, or moving into team management. The "build from the ground up" narrative implies significant opportunities for shaping processes and contributing to the company's foundational engineering practices.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role requires significant in-office presence, with 4-5 days per week dedicated to being at the Novi, Michigan location. This indicates a collaborative, in-person work environment.

Office Location(s): Novi, Michigan. This is a hub for automotive engineering and development in the United States.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Focus: The emphasis on in-office work suggests a culture that values face-to-face interaction, spontaneous problem-solving, and team cohesion.

• Engineering Resources: Access to engineering labs, testing facilities, and design tools will be critical for this role.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with DREs, validation engineers, and cross-functional stakeholders will shape the daily work experience.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, exempt position.

• While a standard 40-hour week is implied, the nature of product development in a high-growth environment suggests potential for extended hours during critical project phases or launch periods.

• The on-site requirement necessitates adherence to a structured work schedule within the Novi office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The strong emphasis on being in the office 4-5 days a week highlights Scout Motors' commitment to a collaborative, hands-on engineering culture typical of automotive development. This environment is conducive to rapid problem-solving and close teamwork.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter review of application and resume to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth interviews with hiring manager and senior engineering team members focusing on powertrain systems, engineering principles, and project management experience. Expect detailed discussions on past projects and technical challenges.

• Cross-Functional Interview: Potential interview with stakeholders from manufacturing, purchasing, or other teams to assess collaboration skills and understanding of the broader product lifecycle.

• Portfolio Review Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their work, focusing on complex engineering projects, system design, and successful product releases.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss strategic fit, leadership potential, and alignment with company vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase System Thinking: Highlight projects where you managed the integration of multiple complex components and subsystems, demonstrating a holistic approach to engineering.

• Quantify Impact: For each project presented, clearly articulate the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., cost savings, performance improvements, schedule adherence, risk reduction).

• Detail the Process: Explain the engineering processes you followed, including design, analysis, validation, and release stages, and how you managed them effectively.

• Problem-Solving Focus: Present case studies of significant technical challenges you encountered and how you systematically approached and resolved them.

• Tailor to Scout: Research Scout Motors' product strategy and challenges. Frame your portfolio examples to demonstrate how your experience directly addresses their needs, especially regarding the Harvester™ system.

Challenge Preparation:

• System Design Exercise: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario where you might need to outline the engineering approach for a new powertrain component or subsystem.

• Root Cause Analysis Scenario: Practice diagnosing a common powertrain issue and outlining your systematic approach to finding the root cause.

• Program Management Scenario: You might be asked to discuss how you would manage a project delay or a significant technical hurdle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the seniority and technical nature of the role, expect a rigorous interview process that heavily emphasizes practical experience, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to articulate complex technical and project management concepts. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating a track record of success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with Gantt charts is explicitly mentioned. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira (for task tracking) would be beneficial.

• CAD Software: Proficiency with 3D CAD tools (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, NX) is expected.

• PLM Systems: Experience with Teamcenter is listed as preferred, indicating its importance for managing product data and workflows.

• Simulation Tools: Knowledge of 1D simulation tools (e.g., GT-SUITE, AMESim) and CAE methods (e.g., FEA, CFD) is preferred for analyzing system performance and design integrity.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis: Ability to analyze technical data from simulations, testing, and production to identify trends, issues, and areas for improvement.

• Reporting Tools: Experience creating clear and concise technical reports for management and cross-functional teams.

CRM & Automation:

• (Not directly applicable to this core engineering role, but understanding how engineering specifications feed into broader company systems may be a plus.)

📝 Enhancement Note: The required and preferred tools highlight a need for engineers proficient in modern automotive product development environments. Expertise in CAD, simulation, and PDM/PLM systems like Teamcenter is crucial for managing complex hardware development cycles.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding high ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.

• Curiosity & Resourcefulness: A drive to learn, explore new solutions, and find practical ways to overcome challenges.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with diverse teams, sharing knowledge, and supporting collective goals.

• Growth Mindset & Adaptability: Embracing change, learning from experiences, and continuously seeking improvement in a fast-paced environment.

• Vision & Passion: A shared commitment to the Scout Motors mission and a drive to build something impactful.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with purchasing, manufacturing, and other engineering disciplines to ensure seamless product development and launch.

• Data-Informed Decision Making: Using data and analysis to guide discussions and drive consensus.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear, direct, and respectful communication to resolve issues and share progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: Scout Motors emphasizes a culture that blends the innovation and agility of a startup with the rigor and discipline required for automotive manufacturing. The values promote a proactive, problem-solving, and team-oriented approach to engineering.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Pioneering New Systems: Developing and launching the Harvester™ Range Extender system for a new brand means establishing processes and standards from scratch, requiring significant initiative and problem-solving.

• Balancing Innovation and Production: The need to drive innovation while meeting strict production timelines and cost targets for a new vehicle launch.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring seamless integration and communication across multiple engineering and operational departments in a rapidly growing organization.

• Managing Technical Complexity: Effectively overseeing the intricate interactions of engine, fuel, exhaust, and electrical systems under demanding performance requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Exposure: Direct involvement in the development of a new iconic automotive brand and its electrification/range-extension strategy.

• Advanced Powertrain Technologies: Gaining deep expertise in range extender systems, internal combustion engine controls, and their integration with electric powertrains.

• Program Leadership: Developing robust program management skills by leading complex, high-stakes engineering projects from inception to launch.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from and mentor other engineers within a growing and experienced team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers the chance to be at the forefront of developing new automotive technology for a revitalized brand. The challenges are significant but provide substantial opportunities for professional growth and impact.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex multi-disciplinary engineering project you led from concept to production. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your project management, problem-solving, and leadership skills.)

• "How would you approach defining technical specifications for a new powertrain subsystem, ensuring it meets performance, cost, and manufacturability requirements?" (Demonstrate your understanding of requirement definition and cross-functional input.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Scout Motors and our mission to revive this iconic brand?" (Showcase your research and genuine interest.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with teams in purchasing or manufacturing to ensure successful product integration?" (Emphasize your cross-functional communication and teamwork skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps by project lifecycle or by key competencies (e.g., System Design, Project Management, Problem Resolution).

• Storytelling: For each example, tell a compelling story that includes the problem, your approach, the actions you took, and the quantifiable results.

• Visuals: Use diagrams, charts, and simplified technical drawings to illustrate complex concepts and your contributions.

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the business and technical impact of your work, especially concerning cost, performance, and schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your experience with specific automotive powertrain systems, engineering processes (like design release, root cause analysis), and project management methodologies. Be ready to draw upon concrete examples from your career to support your answers.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the official Scout Motors careers portal via the provided Greenhouse link.

• Craft a targeted resume: Highlight your 12+ years of experience in complex engineering project management, specifically within automotive powertrains (trucks, SUVs). Emphasize your proficiency with system engineering execution, technical specification generation, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your ability to manage hardware development from concept to production, your expertise in powertrain systems (especially ICE and range extenders), and your problem-solving capabilities. Be ready to present these with a focus on quantifiable results and process adherence.

• Research Scout Motors: Understand their product vision, the significance of the Harvester™ system, and their company culture. Prepare to articulate why you are a good fit for their mission and values.

• Practice your interview responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to technical challenges, project management, and cross-functional collaboration, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

⚠️ 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.