Trim Engineer

About the role

The Trim Engineer leads the development of one or more trim programs, giving direction and follow-up to staff and customer business units. The role works closely with the Principal Engineer or Chief Trim Engineer and applies basic engineering practices to deliver trim design solutions that meet quality, cost and craftsmanship objectives. It provides seat and foam engineering input so that seat appearance and craftsmanship are flawless. The primary location is the Central Tech Unit in Plymouth, Michigan.

Key responsibilities

• Design trim covers using 2D pattern design principles, with manual patterns and/or Trim Optitex 2D CAD tools, following the Trim, Foam Interface Template and Design for Assembly guidelines
• Design trim covers to meet cost targets or identify cost improvement opportunities
• Release final product data into TPDM and PLM, write and promote design approvals and engineering change requests, and digitize patterns into Optitex CAD systems when needed
• Make trim style proposals on 3D models, cut and sew or support the sewing cell for prototypes, and build development seats to verify designs
• Manage the change management process, write and track trim cover ECRs, and manage ECO CN releases of engineering data in TPDM and PLM
• Review the EBOM, support build events at JIT plants, create trim construction drawings and manufacturing ODS, and recommend solutions to process issues in Sew and JIT facilities
• Support SDT recommendations affecting external components such as seat systems, foam, structures, tooling and plastics, and travel to SDT or manufacturing plants when needed (typically no more than 1-2 weeks at a time)
• Act as key point of contact for the program team and customer communications on trim design and feasibility, and coach others in BEP, A3/A4s and tactical planning