Launch Support Engineer - Exteriors (DRAFT)

Job Description

Ford is seeking a senior Launch Support Engineer – Exteriors to support Advanced EV vehicle launches. This role serves as the on‑site technical liaison between the Irvine design team and manufacturing, quality, supplier, and launch teams. The focus is launch execution, issue resolution, and cross‑functional leadership - not TPM or hands‑on design work.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead exterior systems launch support during vehicle builds, inspections, and validation

Drive daily alignment through startup meetings, floor reviews, and cross‑functional issue forums

Identify build risks, inspection needs, trials, and issues requiring escalation

Serve as the primary technical interface between design engineering and on‑site teams

Review CAD (CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE) to assess design intent, interfaces, tolerances, build feasibility, and launch risk

Apply engineering fundamentals (GD&T, fit‑and‑finish, A‑surface, sealing, water management) to resolve issues

Lead and support problem‑solving activities, including PPAP and A/B problem solving

Support paint trials, quality investigations, and manufacturing process improvements

Ensure exterior systems meet design, functional, and appearance expectations at launch

Technical Scope – Exterior Systems:

Fascias, glazing, exterior trim Wiper/washer and exterior lighting systems Injection‑molded plastics, thermoformed components, glazing materials, exterior finishes Interfaces between exterior systems and body structure

Skills and Requirements

Requirements

8+ years automotive experience with OEM launch support

Strong design engineering background with prior hands‑on experience

Proven success in fast‑paced launch environments with manufacturing, quality, and suppliers

CAD review experience in CATIA 3DX (CATIA V5 or Siemens NX acceptable)

Strong understanding of GD&T, fit‑and‑finish, A‑surface quality, sealing, and water management

Familiarity with issue‑tracking systems (e.g., JIRA)

Okay with up to 50 % travel to Ford manufacturing sites Experience working at Ford or GM previously

We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to HR@insightglobal.com.