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Seat Headrest and Armrest - (DRE)

Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States

We’re ALTEN Technology USA, an engineering company helping clients bring groundbreaking ideas to life—from advancing space exploration and life-saving medical devices to building autonomous electric vehicles. With 3,000+ experts across North America, we partner with leading companies in aerospace, medical devices, robotics, automotive, commercial vehicles, EVs, rail, and more.

As part of the global ALTEN Group—57,000+ engineers in 30 countries—we deliver across the entire product development cycle, from consulting to full project outsourcing.

When you join ALTEN Technology USA, you’ll collaborate on some of the world’s toughest engineering challenges, supported by mentorship, career growth opportunities, and comprehensive benefits. We take pride in fostering a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.

Job Summary

  • The Seat Headrest and Armrest Design Release Engineer (DRE) is responsible for the end-to-end design, development, validation, and launch of headrest and armrest components within Client systems. 
  • This role owns the technical definition, release, and ongoing quality performance of these components, working closely with cross-functional teams and external suppliers to deliver best-in-class comfort, safety, and value.

Key Responsibilities

  • Own the design and release of headrest and armrest components (structures, foam, plastic trim, mechanisms) from concept through production.
  • Develop and maintain component-level technical specifications, design documents, and engineering standards for headrest and armrest systems.
  • Lead packaging and integration of headrest and armrest assemblies into complete seat structures, ensuring compliance with ergonomics, safety, manufacturability, and serviceability requirements.
  • Create and maintain engineering documentation in Client systems (e.g., part numbers, BOMs, drawings, 3D CAD data).
  • Coordinate with suppliers on design proposals, DFMEAs, DVP&Rs, timing plans, and cost/feasibility studies; drive robust design solutions that meet Client performance targets.
  • Plan and execute validation activities for headrest and armrest systems, including durability, environmental, and regulatory compliance testing.
  • Analyze test data, identify root causes of issues, and drive corrective actions and design changes to closure.
  • Support vehicle builds (mules, pilots, PPAP, launch) by resolving fit, finish, and functional issues in a timely manner.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Structures, Trim, Foam, Safety, Manufacturing) to ensure seamless integration and robust performance.
  • Manage engineering changes (CNs/ECNs), cost reductions, and quality improvements for in-production programs.
  • Benchmark competitive seating technologies and contribute to Client seating innovation roadmaps for headrest and armrest systems.

Qualifications & Skills:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field from an ABET-accredited university.
  • 5+ years of engineering experience in automotive seating or related discipline.
  • Hands-on experience with headrest and armrest components, including foam processing and plastic molding.
  • Prior experience in a Design Release Engineer (DRE) or System Responsible Engineer role at an OEM or Tier 1 supplier.
  • Strong understanding of foam manufacturing processes and plastic injection molding.
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD tools (CATIA, NX, or equivalent) for packaging and design review.
  • Familiarity with standard engineering tools and processes: DFMEA, DVP&R, root cause analysis, and problem-solving methodologies.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills.
  • Ability to work autonomously and lead cross-functional teams.
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

ALTEN Technology is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our Policy is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual’s age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or veteran status.

Please beware of job seeker scams and see this important notice on our careers page for more information about our recruiting process.

Compliance Notice: Alten USA is a federal contractor subject to the requirements of the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and Executive Order 11246. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Drug Screening Requirement: As a federal contractor, Alten USA maintains a drug-free workplace. All candidates selected for employment will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening as a condition of hire.

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