Senior Engineer - Paint Pilot Projects

Collaborative. Respectful. A place to dream and do. These are just a few words that describe what life is like at Toyota. As one of the world’s most admired brands, Toyota is growing and leading the future of mobility through innovative, high-quality solutions designed to enhance lives and delight those we serve. We’re looking for talented team members who want to Dream. Do. Grow. with us.

Toyota Manufacturing is looking to develop new innovative solutions to support the future of mobility and values being a member of a local and global community. We offer an inclusive team environment that values “respect for people” and we are a company with a rich history and an exciting future to pursue your professional dreams.

Toyota does not offer support or sponsorship of job applicants for employment-based visas or any other work authorization for this role now or in the future. You must have the right to work in the United States and not require Toyota support or sponsorship for immigration-related employment.

About the role

Toyota’s Paint Pilot Department is looking for a passionate and highly motivated Sr. Engineer. The primary responsibility of this role is to support the Paint Pilot Team across both shops for both minor and major future projects located at TMMI Paint as the Engineering lead. Reporting to the Pilot Manager, the person in this role will support the Paint Department's objective to prepare the Paint Shop for future vehicle structural changes, equipment changes, and raw material needed to stay competitive in the automotive industry.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Major Model Engineer Lead, coordinating year-over-year changepoints.
• Collaborate with existing Pilot teams, including Team Members (TMs), Team Leaders (TLs), and Group Leaders (GLs), to support changepoint execution.
• Utilize the North American Paint Operating Plan to develop strategies and plans for implementing paint shop–specific changes and model initiatives on the production floor.
• Work closely with both North American and Japanese design teams to review 3D concepts and updated design specifications, developing actionable plans for execution within the model year.
• Support color selection negotiations and communicate manufacturing capabilities effectively.
• Coordinate trial activities in preparation for changepoints to ensure alignment with TMMI gated management milestones.
• Collaborate with internal groups at TMMI/TMNA and external groups on equipment refurbishment, retrofit, and future reborn projects.
• Support production through special projects aimed at improving safety, quality, productivity, or cost efficiency as needed.
• Report out project status to shop and executive level.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or Applied Engineering.
• Demonstrated experience in new product introduction or product launch.
• Ability to provide direction on project management and production support, particularly related to safety, quality, and productivity issues.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to guide teams.
• Experience collaborating effectively across multiple departments and functional groups.
• Engineering support expertise for projects, equipment upgrades, and initiatives aimed at improving operational availability.
• Track record of leading capital investment projects that enhance safety, quality, and productivity.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities with practical applications of continuous improvement methodologies such as Toyota Production Systems.
• Proficiency in data analysis and digital tools for processing, monitoring, and operational decision making.
• Proficiency in 3D software and capable of navigating various 3D programs for deep understanding of product.
• Experience leading others to achieve launch objectives, with a strong understanding of existing shop initiatives and key performance indicators (KPIs).

Skills

• Automotive manufacturing experience.
• Experience with Catia, Terrace, or XVL.
• Experience collaborating/leading internal shop meetings (e.g., Quality Engineering, Weld, Assembly) to drive cross-shop initiatives.
• Direct involvement in new model vehicle launches.
• Fundamental knowledge of paint shop production process including:
  • Pretreat/ED
  • Sealer/Sound Damping
  • Corrosion protection
  • Topcoat Application

Benefits

• A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.
• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career, as well as tuition reimbursement.
• Team Member Vehicle Purchase Discount.
• Toyota Team Member Lease Vehicle Program (if applicable).
• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans for your entire family.
• Toyota 401(k) Savings Plan featuring a company match, as well as an annual retirement contribution from Toyota regardless of whether you contribute (if applicable).
• Paid holidays and paid time off.
• Referral services related to prenatal services, adoption, childcare, schools, and more.
• Tax Advantaged Accounts (Health Savings Account, Health Care FSA, Dependent Care FSA).