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Applications Engineer

Optimal Inc.
Dearborn, MI Full Time
POSTED ON 12/8/2025 CLOSED ON 2/8/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Applications Engineer position at Optimal Inc.?

Position Description:As a Global Shift Systems Applications Engineer, you'll lead the design, development, validation, and release of electronic user interface components-specifically gear shift systems-across global vehicle programs. You'll be the key bridge between core engineering and vehicle teams, ensuring flawless execution from concept to launch.Job Responsibilities:Own the design and release of electronic shift system commodities.Collaborate across the organization with external suppliers, design studio, MHI / Ergo, manufacturing VO, feature owners, electrical architecture teams, and within the shift systems team to deliver gear shifter commodities to programs on time and on targets with best-in-class quality.Manage commodities pre-and-post launch to support quality and ongoing manufacturing feasibility.Create clear, concise open issues lists to determine priorities for workplan development.Utilize program management systems such as FEDE, JIRA, AIMS, and WERS.Lead milestone deliverables and support all program builds with hardware, software, change notices, and alerts.Interpret hardware/software specifications and manage DFMEAs, DVP&Rs, SCCAF's and Control Plans.Drive issue resolution and support Total Value Management (TVM) initiatives.Analyze performance data to improve reliability, durability, and cost efficiency.Participate in sourcing processes and supplier negotiations involving all aspects of commodity cost.Skills Required:Teamcenter, Product Development, Product Engineering, Analytical skills, CAE, Technical Analysis, CAD, Problem Solving, Microsoft Office, WERS, Program Management.Skills Preferred:Jira, Six Sigma Methodology, CATIA, Speaks SpanishExperience Required:3 years of automotive engineering experience from early development through launch.General knowledge of vehicle systems and electronic/mechanical interfaces.Electrical and mechanical hardware engineering experience.Exceptionally strong communication, organization, and program management skills.Excellent program management and cross-functional collaboration skills.Familiarity with engineering tools and disciplines (DFMEA, DVP&R, P-diagram).Fluent in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote).Ability to interpret 2D and 3D CAD drawings and schematics.Experience with supplier management and negotiations.Requirements engineering experience - hardware and software specification interpretation.General understanding of material properties and mass production processes.Six Sigma mindset.Problem solving skills: 8D's, 5-Why's.Experience Preferred:Experience with automotive PPAP process.Knowledge of injection-molded components.Knowledge of manufacturing quality documentation (PFMEA, control plans, line flow charts).Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.Familiarity with systems like TeamCenter, CATIA, and Global Integrator • Component testing experience (bench/dyno/vehicle).Automotive software implementation experience.Working knowledge of commercially available AI tools and resources.Working knowledge of Atlassian-JIRA.Education Required:Bachelor's DegreeEducation Preferred:Master's DegreeAdditional Information:POSTION IS HYBRID / 4 days in office Monday - Thursday

Salary : $43

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