DRE BIW - Underbody Engineer

About the role

Collaboration with design, manufacturing, simulation, and supplier teams defines the core workflow for this position. This role owns the development of engineering solutions specifically for the underbody systems within the automotive and commercial vehicles sectors. You will act as a technical leader ensuring alignment between form, function, and manufacturing feasibility for underbody components. The work requires a deep dive into the interactions between sheet metal forming processes and structural integrity. You will be responsible for translating high-level requirements into detailed engineering deliverables. Success in this role is measured by your ability to resolve complex technical issues through structured stakeholder dialogue. The position demands a proactive approach to cross-functional coordination to unblock development timelines.

Key facts

What you'll do

Cross-functional coordination aligns design, performance, quality, and manufacturing requirements for underbody development.

Technical issues are communicated and engineering challenges are resolved through clear stakeholder dialogue.

Forming simulation reports are reviewed to assess manufacturability and guide design decisions for underbody components.

Basic CAD knowledge in NX facilitates discussions with designers and the review of engineering solutions for underbody systems.

Requirements are analyzed to ensure they are testable, traceable, and aligned with vehicle-level objectives for the underbody.

Data management discipline is maintained through adherence to processes in Teamcenter for version control and release.

Dimensional integrity is validated using GD&T to ensure parts meet functional requirements and fit within assemblies.

Root cause analysis is performed on production issues to implement corrective actions and prevent recurrence.

Support for process validation activities ensures that manufacturing methods are capable of producing quality underbody stampings.

Continuous improvement initiatives are led to optimize sheet metal forming processes and reduce scrap rates in production.

Documentation is created and maintained to reflect design decisions, trade-offs, and verification results for underbody systems.

Collaboration with suppliers ensures that tooling and component specifications are met for underbody assembly integration.

Physical testing and virtual simulations are correlated to verify the durability and performance of underbody structures.

Mentoring junior engineers is part of the role to build capability within the team for underbody development.

Requirements

The posting states a bachelor's degree requirement. A degree is required as a baseline qualification for this role.

Demonstrated experience with BIW underbody stampings and assembly development is necessary.

Understanding of sheet metal forming processes and forming simulation reports is essential.

Basic CAD proficiency in NX is required to review engineering solutions and enable design discussions.

Familiarity with Teamcenter is required for data and process management in this role.

Strong GD&T knowledge and application maintain dimensional integrity and meet functional requirements.

Effective operation in a fast-paced, cross-functional automotive environment with diverse teams is required.

Eligibility for employment in the United States is required without current or future sponsorship at this time.

All applicants must meet the security screening requirements associated with federal contractor status.

Practical notes

This role is based in Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States, and aligns with compliance requirements for federal contractors.

Drug screening is required as part of employment decisions due to federal contractor obligations.

Typical interview steps

Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.

Good to know

The role operates within a global engineering organization focused on multiple sectors such as aerospace, medical devices, robotics, and automotive.

Tools commonly used in this type of work include CAD platforms like NX and product data management systems such as Teamcenter.

Forming simulation reports are used to guide design decisions for sheet metal components.

GD&T is a standard practice for ensuring dimensional control in manufacturing.

Career growth

Engineering careers usually progress from individual contributor to senior, staff, and principal levels. Some engineers move into management and lead teams of five to twenty people. Others stay on the technical track. Growth follows demonstrated impact, not tenure alone. A typical engineering ladder has clear levels with defined expectations for scope, quality, and mentorship. Moving up usually requires owning outcomes end to end rather than completing assigned tickets.