What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Wheels & Tires Engineer position at Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc.?
Sr. Wheels & Tires Engineer
Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is searching for a Senior Engineer for the Chassis Engineering Team II
The Team:
The Chassis Engineering Team II would oversee the design, development, and release efforts of the following disciplines: chassis mounts, vehicle braking systems, and vehicle driveline systems
The Position:
The Sr. Wheel & Tire Systems Engineer would be a technical expert and key leader in the design, development, and validation of wheel and tire assemblies for U.S. pickup trucks and off-road vehicles from concept to production release. This role focuses on delivering robust wheel and tire solutions - including specialty off-road tire systems (beadlock wheels, mud-terrain tires, run-flat technologies) and integrated TPMS/tire pressure management - that meet stringent performance, safety, and durability requirements.
What You Will Do:
- Design & Development:Lead the engineering of wheel and tire systems from concept through production; use CATIA V5 to create 3D models and 2D drawings of wheels, tire/rim interfaces, and integration of TPMS sensors; ensure designs meet all performance targets and integrate seamlessly with braking and suspension systems
- Specialty Off-Road Systems:Develop and implement specialized off-road tire technologies such as beadlock wheel systems (for low-pressure off-road use), mud-terrain and all-terrain tire packages, run-flat tire inserts, and central tire inflation / TPMS solutions; work with suppliers to customize systems for vehicle applications
- Validation & Testing:Define test plans and criteria for durability, fatigue, impact, and off-road abuse testing of wheels and tires; support vehicle-level testing for ride and handling on various terrains; analyze test data and failure modes and iterate designs to meet safety and performance standards
- Regulatory Compliance:Ensure all wheel and tire systems comply with relevant regulations and industry standards, which includes adherence to FMVSS for wheels/tires and TPMS, as well as SAE and other applicable standards for tire sizing, load ratings, and performance
- Cross-Functional Collaboration:Collaborate closely with engineering teams to integrate wheel/tire systems without issues (e.g. brake caliper clearance, suspension travel, fender clearance); coordinate with manufacturing and service teams to ensure the wheel and tire designs are feasible to produce, assemble, and service (including spare tire and jack/tool provisions)
- Supplier Coordination:Act as the technical liaison with OEM and Tier 1 suppliers for wheels and tires; develop specifications and requirements for supplier-designed components (custom tire compounds, wheel castings/forgings) and manage supplier deliverables; lead design reviews with suppliers and resolve technical issues in development or production (e.g. tire uniformity problems, wheel finishing issues, etc)
- Project Leadership: Manage wheel and tire subsystem projects on new vehicle programs; track progress of design and testing milestones, and ensure on-time delivery of components for prototype builds and production; conduct design reviews, DFMEAs, and DVP&R for wheel/tire systems; provide regular status updates to program management and proactively address any risks or roadblocks.
- Mentorship and Technical Guidance:Provide leadership within the chassis engineering team by mentoring junior engineers and sharing expertise in wheel & tire engineering; demonstrate a willingness to continuously learn and be trained in new methods or technologies
- Travel up to 20% of the time, both domestically and internationally
What You Will Bring to the Role:
- Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical, automotive, or a related field of engineering
- 8-10 years of experience in chassis and suspension design, with a focus on Wheel & Tire systems
- Proficiency with 3D modeling, assemblies, and 2D drawing generation via CATIA V5
- Strong understanding of GD&T and tolerance stack-ups in wheel hubs and rim interfaces
- In-dept knowledge of relevant FMVSS regulations and SAE standards related to wheels and tires
- Strong understanding of vehicle ride and handling dynamics, especially how tire construction, tread, and wheel size influence ride comfort, steering response, and off-road traction
- Experience with ride tuning, alignment specifications, and chassis setup for off-road or heavy-duty applications
- Knowledge of durability testing procedures for rough road, pothole, and off-road endurance
- Experience with CAD data management and revision control
- Demonstrated ability to interpret test data, perform data-driven design decisions, and apply engineering analysis
- Flexibility withprogram and process changes, as Hyundai/Kia/Genesis is willing to make late changes to satisfy customer needs
- Good written, oral, interpersonal, and leadership skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft programs, such as Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word
- Excellenttime management, self-management, and organization skills
- Ability to remain current with new technologies and best practices
- Willingness to attend training, workshops, or conferences to enhance skills
- Ability to diagnose and resolve complex, section-related issues
- Valid Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record
- Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's degree in mechanical, automotive, or a related field of engineering
- Experience working on electric or hybrid vehicle suspension systems
- Knowledge of the Wheel & Tire systems, durability, set up, articulation, etc of pickup trucks, SUVs, or off-road vehicles
- Experience with CAE analysis (FEA of wheels, tire modeling) and interpreting results to guide design
- Experience performing advanced suspension modeling, simulations, and optimization via CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, Nastran, MATLAB/Simulink, etc.)
- In-depth understanding of vehicle ride & handling, off-road performance, and NVH considerations specific to heavy-duty trucks and SUVs
- Knowledge of solid axle and independent suspension systems in off-road conditions
- Familiarity with CATIA V6 and PDM (i.e., ENOVIA V6) or Windchill PLM systems
- Professional Engineer (PE) license or Six Sigma certification
What Hyundai Can Offer You:
- 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
- Hybrid Work Schedule
- 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
Other Details:
- Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
- HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRM Federal contractor.
Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is an equal opportunity employer commited to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, other protected veteran status, and any other protected class under law.
