NAFFCOSenior Project Engineer - Automotive Structures
AI in this role
Job Summary
The Senior Project Engineer – Automotive Structures is responsible for leading the design, development, and delivery of structural components and systems for automotive applications. This role ensures that projects meet performance, safety, cost, and timeline requirements while coordinating cross-functional teams across engineering, manufacturing, and suppliers.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the design and development of automotive structural components (chassis, BIW, frames, subframes)
Manage full project lifecycle from concept through production release
Develop and review CAD models, drawings, and engineering documentation
Perform structural analysis including strength, stiffness, fatigue, and durability
Coordinate with CAE teams for simulation and validation activities
Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations
Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure design for manufacturability (DFM)
Manage project timelines, deliverables, and engineering changes
Interface with suppliers for component development, sourcing, and validation
Support prototype builds, testing, and issue resolution
Drive cost optimization and weight reduction initiatives
Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership
Required Skills and Competencies
Strong knowledge of automotive structures (chassis, BIW, crash structures)
Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, NX)
Experience with CAE tools (e.g., Abaqus, ANSYS, HyperMesh)
Understanding of materials (steel, aluminum, composites) and joining methods
Knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards
Strong project management and problem-solving skills
Experience with DFMEA, PFMEA, and design validation processes
Familiarity with automotive regulations and safety standards
Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field
6–12 years of experience in automotive structural design and development
Proven experience leading engineering projects
Experience in OEM or Tier-1 automotive companies preferred
How we rate this
Senior Project Engineer - Automotive Structures at NAFFCO rates 31 out of 100 for how much of the daily work is AI. That makes it Little AI (AI Level 1 of 4). The level is about AI in the job, not seniority.
Little AI. AI is not part of the work.
- ●●●● Builds AI80 to 100
- ●●●○ Works on AI60 to 79
- ●●○○ Uses AI40 to 59
- ●○○○ Little AI0 to 39
Levels come from how often the tools, models and workflows of the role are named in the posting itself. Open the description and count.
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