Seating Trim Engineer

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. We also believe in providing you with the freedom to define and realize your dreams! With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career potential as you help us define tomorrow’s transportation.

Ford Model E is responsible for developing the key technologies and capabilities – such as EV platforms, batteries, e-motors, inverters, charging and recycling – to create ground-up, breakthrough electric vehicles. By joining the best software, engineering, design and UX talent, you will be a part of creating new technologies and concepts that can be applied across the Ford enterprise. Being on the Ford Model E team means building the future as Ford’s center of innovation and growth through electric and connected vehicles and services. 

• Lead the development of trim programs: Direct and manage the execution of trim program initiatives, ensuring alignment with project timelines and budget constraints.
• Provide technical guidance and direction: Mentor and support your team members, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented environment.
• Collaborate with stakeholders: Work closely with the Trim Engineering Manager, ensuring clear communication and alignment across departments.
• Develop and implement trim design solutions: Leverage your engineering expertise to create innovative and functional trim designs that meet rigorous quality, cost, and craftsmanship standards.
• Ensure flawless seat appearance and craftsmanship: Partner with seat and foam engineers to achieve optimal integration and a superior customer experience.
• Stay abreast of industry trends: Maintain a deep understanding of the latest advancements in trim materials, technologies, and manufacturing processes.

Trim Design Requirements :

• Design trim covers using 2D pattern principles, employing both manual and Trim Optitex CAD tools as needed.
• Ensure trim patterns align with the Trim/Foam Interface Template and Design for Assembly guidelines.
• Optimize trim cover designs to meet cost targets, identifying and addressing cost-related challenges.
• Release final product data into TPDM and PLM systems, writing and promoting Design Approvals (DAs) and Engineering Change Requests (ECRs).
• Support Complete Seat Build Events by providing technical expertise.
• Propose 3D model modifications to enhance seat appearance quality.
• Contribute to the creation of development and prototype covers by cutting, sewing, or providing support to the sew cell.
• Build and assemble development seats to verify trim designs, utilizing production build methods.
• Maintain a safe and organized work environment.
• Assist with costing and quoting activities by providing essential information.

Engineering requirements:

• Masterfully manages the Change Management process, writing and tracking Trim cover ECRs to completion.
• Manages the release of engineering data in 3DX PLM, ensuring all required documentation, drawings, and related materials are included.
• Thoroughly reviews and understands the Engineering Bill of Materials (EBOM).
• Develops data-driven engineering solutions using sound engineering principles.
• Provides expert technical support during key build events at JIT plants, effectively communicating with internal and external customer representatives.
• Collaborates in the creation of Trim Construction drawings for final trim cover release.
• Identifies and recommends solutions for process issues within the Sew and JIT facilities, supporting the creation of manufacturing ODS documentation.
• Provides technical support when suppliers recommend changes affecting external components (seat systems, foam, structures, trim covers, tooling, and plastics), demonstrating strong troubleshooting skills.
• Travels to support suppliers and/or manufacturing plants as needed, with trips typically lasting 2-3 weeks.
• Leads DFMEA and DFAM meetings for trim cover development.

EDUCATION / Qualification:

• Engineering Degree – Desirable Textile Engineering Degree in job related field (e.g. textiles, clothing etc.)
• Has completed minimum of 3 Program complete trim development maturation cycle from initial patterns through production start-up.
• Experience in Cut and sew using machines such as (Leuctra, Pathfinder)
• Experience in production environment of trim pattern development is preferred.

https://corporate.ford.com/content/dam/corporate/us/en-us/documents/careers/2024-benefits-and-comp-GSR-sal-plan-2.pdf