We are seeking a mid-level Product Development Engineer to support the design, sourcing, engineering, and launch of automotive accessories and vehicle-integrated products. The role requires strong technical capability combined with practical understanding of manufacturing and supplier coordination.
This is a hands-on execution role responsible for developing products from concept through prototype to production, working closely with suppliers, OEM customers, and internal commercial teams.
Key Responsibilities
Product Design & Engineering
- Develop 3D CAD models and technical drawings for automotive accessories (metal, plastic, electronic-integrated products)
- Conduct reverse engineering using physical samples and scan data
- Prepare BOMs, tolerance stack-ups, and manufacturing-ready documentation
- Ensure design compliance with DFM, DFA, and cost targets
- Coordinate prototype development and testing
Technical Sourcing Support
- Work with procurement team to identify suitable global suppliers (China, Taiwan, India, Europe)
- Evaluate supplier technical capabilities and production feasibility
- Review tooling concepts (injection molds, die-cast molds, sheet metal tooling)
- Support RFQ preparation with technical specifications
- Analyze supplier drawings and propose technical improvements
Testing & Validation
- Plan and supervise product validation (fitment, durability, vibration, temperature)
- Coordinate field testing on vehicles
- Ensure compliance with relevant automotive standards (ISO, SAE, ECE where applicable)
- Maintain documentation for approvals and OEM submissions
Cross-Functional Coordination
- Liaise with marketing for product positioning inputs
- Work with warehouse and logistics teams during pilot production
- Support after-sales team with technical clarifications
- Participate in OEM technical discussions when required
Cost & Commercial Awareness
- Optimize product design for cost efficiency
- Evaluate cost breakdowns from suppliers
- Support margin calculations through engineering-based cost reduction
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Automotive Engineering
- 48 years experience in automotive product development or accessory engineering
- Strong hands-on experience in 3D CAD (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX or equivalent)
- Understanding of injection molding, sheet metal, extrusion, and assembly processes
- Experience working with international suppliers
- Practical understanding of automotive fitment and vehicle integration
Preferred Skills
- Exposure to embedded electronics or accessory integration (CAN, sensors, lighting)
- Experience with rapid prototyping (3D printing)
- Knowledge of automotive quality systems (PPAP, FMEA, APQP)
- Familiarity with GCC compliance and regulatory requirements
- Strong Excel capability for cost and BOM analysis