Closures BIW Engineer
About the Role
The Closures BIW Engineer will support the development of advanced closure systems for Hyundai's next-generation vehicles. This position plays a critical role in the end-to-end engineering of functional, innovative, and aesthetically integrated closures, including hoods, tailgates, side doors, liftgates, hinges, and special closure moving panels. The ideal candidate combines hands-on product development expertise with strong leadership, mentorship, and cross-functional collaboration skills in the U.S. SUV, pickup truck, and off-road vehicle marketplace.
The Team
Closures Engineering Design is a collaborative and innovation-driven team at a leading automotive company. The team values open communication, continuous learning, and a hands-on approach. Senior engineers guide less experienced colleagues, share knowledge freely, and work together to solve complex engineering challenges. The team is committed to delivering high-quality, safe, and reliable closure systems, encouraging creative problem-solving and ownership at all levels.
As part of this team, you will work closely with a diverse group of designers, testers, and manufacturing engineers in an environment that rewards initiative, technical excellence, and professional growth.
Responsibilities
- Design and develop closure systems (e.g., side doors, hood, trunk lid, tailgate, liftgate, body side sealing flanges, hinges, and innovative advanced closures).
- Perform design-releasing duties for North American-based vehicle projects and manage system BOMs.
- Create and modify 3D data and 2D drawings via CATIA V5 and other engineering tools.
- Lead system cost/mass target reduction studies for components/parts.
- Investigate system quality, assembly obstacles, and durability issues; suggest engineering improvements and mentor junior engineers on best practices.
- Lead cross-functional team interface actions with other engineering design teams, suppliers, and Korean headquarters.
- Lead design and issue resolution actions with US-based Korean Coordinators.
- Review and advise on part/system performance and regulatory testing.
- Lead system benchmarking activities for future product development opportunities.
- Liaise between North American affiliates and Korean headquarters.
- Recommend engineering improvements for assessed field claims based on customer feedback and other sources.
- Support the interpretation of regulations and crash performance requirements.
- Support the advanced development of closure systems and components for future vehicles.
- Remain current with new technology and best practices to drive innovation.
- Travel up to 20% of the time, both domestically and internationally.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field.
- 3+ years of work experience concerning sheet metal (e.g., steel and aluminum), polymers & elastomer design, forming, welding, joining, and production assembly techniques.
- 3+ years of professional experience with closure BIW and mixed material design and release responsibilities.
- Proficiency in Catia V5 for 3D modeling, including surface modeling, assemblies, and 2D drawing generation.
- Good working knowledge of closure mechanisms.
- Sound understanding of sealing design, assembly, and tooling.
- Experience in cradle-to-grave product development best practices and processes.
- OEM product launch experience.
- Familiarity with part and assembly Datum schemes and dimensional tolerance application.
- Experience with truck, SUV, off-road, and electric vehicle BIW closures architecture.
- Experience planning and executing vehicle or component tests (e.g., durability rigs, track testing, and NVH evaluations).
- Exposure to innovation concerning advanced technology development projects.
- Ability to explain technical topics to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Adept in Microsoft programs, such as Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word.
- Ability to prepare reports/spreadsheets to support project-related work.
- Excellent time management, self-management, and organization skills.
- Strong written, oral, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to diagnose complex issues (e.g., failure analysis) and develop robust solutions under tight timelines.
- Willingness to attend training sessions, workshops, or conferences to enhance skills and knowledge.
- Project management experience.
- Valid Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field.
- Experience with side door closure and specifically with pickup trucks, SUVs, or off-road vehicles.
- Familiarity with FMVSS, SAE standards, and global regulatory requirements.
- Ability to develop test plans, interpret data, and implement design improvements.
- Track record of leading technical projects or teams.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license or Six Sigma certification.
- Prior patents or significant contributions to new product development.
Benefits
- Zero-dollar employee premiums on medical, dental, and vision for you and your family.
- 100% employer-paid disability and life insurance.
- Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick, and abundant holidays.
- Competitive salaries.
- A global environment that fosters diversity.
- Retirement savings and planning benefits.
- Access to health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts.
- Flexible work hours.