Product Engineer I
Summary
Designs and develops automotive components like window regulators, door modules, and power lift gates from concept through mass production. Works with 3D models, performs testing/validation, and collaborates with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, quality, and supply chain.
Founded in 1946, HI-LEX is a leading supplier of window regulators, door modules, power lift gate systems, and mechanical control cables primarily serving the automotive industry, but also the power sports, marine, construction equipment, and medical device sectors. Headquartered in Takarazuka, Japan (near Osaka), and listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE), HI-LEX employs more than 12,000 associates across its global footprint.
In the Americas region, HI-LEX has grown steadily in the region, and now has ten (10) manufacturing facilities across the the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. In the U.S., HI-LEX operates under three divisions: HI-LEX America in Battle Creek, Michigan; HI-LEX Controls in Hudson, Litchfield, and Hazel Park, Michigan; and Daedong HI-LEX of America in Cusseta, Alabama. The company’s automotive center is in Rochester Hills, Michigan which consists of Finance, Sales, Engineering, Testing, Program Management, Human Resources, Purchasing and IT.
Website: HI-LEX.com
POSITION SUMMARY:
Designs and develops products and systems to meet or exceed customer requirements. The Product Engineer I designs and develops innovative products and systems, ensuring final designs and manufactured components consistently exceed internal quality standards and customer requirements. This involves analyzing specifications, performing simulations and tests, collaborating with cross-functional teams (including manufacturing, quality, and supply chain), and managing the product lifecycle from concept to mass production and continuous improvement. The role requires applying fundamental engineering principles and technical expertise to deliver high-quality, reliable, and cost-effective solutions.
KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Designs and develops products to meet or exceed customer requirements.
- Determines feasibility of new and modified components and assemblies using analytical engineering tools.
- Reviews and defines test methods based on customer and Hi-Lex specifications.
- Coordinates prototype builds and testing / validation for assigned products.
- Provides technical support to customers, Hi-Lex manufacturing, quality assurance, program management and sales.
- Works with 3D models, drawings and design studies.
- Identifies root cause and counter-measures for system failures and quality concerns.
- Actively supports and directs VA / VE and DFM activities.
- Prepares problem solving reports, DVP&R reports, etc.
- Promotes an associate relations environment that is consistent with long-term management objectives.