Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Engine Designer

🎯 Role Definition

Are you ready to shape the future of power and performance? This role requires a highly skilled and innovative Engine Designer to join our dynamic engineering team. In this critical role, you will be the driving force behind the entire lifecycle of engine component and system design. You will translate performance requirements into robust, manufacturable, and cost-effective designs, utilizing advanced CAD and simulation tools. This position offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with a world-class team of engineers and make a tangible impact on cutting-edge powertrain technology, whether for automotive, aerospace, or industrial applications. If you have a passion for mechanical intricacy and a drive to solve complex engineering challenges, we want to hear from you.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Mechanical Engineer
Design Engineer
CAD Designer / Drafter

Advancement To:

Senior or Lead Engine Designer
Principal Engineer, Powertrain
Engineering Manager / Project Manager

Lateral Moves:

Test and Validation Engineer
Systems Engineer
Application or Project Engineer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Spearhead the design, development, and release of major engine systems and components, including cylinder blocks, cylinder heads, valvetrain, and rotating/reciprocating assemblies.
Create and maintain highly detailed and complex 3D CAD models and 2D engineering drawings for engine components and assemblies using software like CATIA, Creo, or NX.
Perform advanced structural, thermal, and fluid dynamics analysis (FEA/CFD) to validate design integrity, performance, and durability against rigorous targets.
Apply a deep understanding of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure proper fit, function, and interchangeability of components.
Lead the development and execution of Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) to proactively identify and mitigate potential design risks.
Develop and manage comprehensive Design Validation Plans & Reports (DVP&R) to ensure designs meet all functional and reliability requirements.
Collaborate intensively with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, quality, testing, and supply chain, to ensure seamless integration from design to production.
Drive the optimization of components for weight reduction, cost-efficiency, and manufacturability (DFM/DFA) without compromising performance.
Lead and participate in formal design reviews, presenting technical concepts, analysis results, and project status to technical experts and leadership.
Interface directly with external suppliers and vendors to manage component development, ensure design feasibility, and maintain stringent quality standards.
Conduct detailed tolerance stack-up analyses to guarantee assembly feasibility and prevent interference issues in complex mechanical systems.
Lead root cause analysis and problem-solving activities for design-related issues identified during prototype builds, testing, or field operation.
Manage the engineering change request (ECR/ECN) process for components under your responsibility, ensuring proper documentation and implementation.
Develop and document technical specifications, performance requirements, and engineering standards for new engine components and systems.
Analyze and interpret physical test data, correlating it with simulation models to refine and improve the accuracy of predictive analysis.
Conduct comprehensive benchmarking studies of competitor engine technologies to identify industry trends and opportunities for innovation.
Author and maintain detailed engineering documentation, including Bill of Materials (BOMs), technical reports, and assembly procedures.
Champion the selection of advanced materials and manufacturing processes (e.g., casting, forging, additive manufacturing) to meet demanding performance criteria.
Support prototype engine builds, providing hands-on engineering guidance to assembly technicians and resolving emergent issues on the fly.
Contribute to the creation of the organization's intellectual property by developing innovative design solutions and participating in the patenting process.

Secondary Functions

Support prototype procurement and logistics by working closely with the purchasing and supply chain teams.
Mentor junior engineers and designers, providing technical guidance and fostering their professional development.
Collaborate with the testing department to define instrumentation requirements and test procedures for design validation.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to refine engineering processes, tools, and best practices within the department.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Advanced 3D CAD Proficiency: Expert-level skill in at least one major CAD package such as CATIA V5/V6, Siemens NX, Creo, or SolidWorks.
Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Strong practical experience using FEA tools (e.g., Ansys, Abaqus, HyperMesh) for structural and thermal analysis of mechanical components.
Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T): In-depth knowledge and application of ASME Y14.5 standards for defining and interpreting engineering tolerances.
Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Fundamentals: Deep understanding of engine theory, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and combustion principles.
Manufacturing Processes: Solid knowledge of high-volume manufacturing techniques, including casting, forging, precision machining, and injection molding.
Design for Manufacturability (DFM/DFA): Proven ability to design components that are optimized for efficient and cost-effective manufacturing and assembly.
Material Science: Strong familiarity with the properties, specifications, and applications of engineering materials, especially ferrous and non-ferrous alloys used in engines.
System Simulation: Experience with 1D engine performance simulation software like GT-POWER or Ricardo WAVE is a significant advantage.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD): Working knowledge of CFD principles and tools for analyzing fluid flow and thermal management within engine systems.
Failure Analysis: A systematic approach to root cause analysis of component failures, including knowledge of metallurgical and material testing methods.
PLM/PDM Software: Experience using Product Lifecycle Management or Product Data Management systems (e.g., Teamcenter, Windchill) for data and revision control.

Soft Skills

Complex Problem-Solving: Ability to dissect complex technical challenges and develop robust, innovative solutions.
Effective Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly to diverse audiences.
Collaboration & Teamwork: A proven track record of working effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in all aspects of design, analysis, and documentation.
Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage priorities, and timelines for multiple projects simultaneously.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing project requirements, timelines, and new technologies.
Initiative: Proactive and self-motivated, with a drive to take ownership of tasks and deliver results.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in a relevant engineering discipline.

Preferred Education:

Master of Science (M.S.) with a specialization in Mechanical Engineering, Thermodynamics, or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Mechanical Engineering
Automotive Engineering
Aerospace Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-10+ years of progressive experience in a mechanical design role, with a strong focus on rotating machinery, powertrain, or engine development.

Preferred: Direct experience in the design and release of internal combustion engine components for automotive, motorsports, heavy-duty, or aerospace applications is highly desirable.