Design Release Engineer - Active Thermal Hardware
General Motors · Warren, Michigan, United States of America ·
- Category
- Hardware
- Experience
- 5+ years
- Visa sponsorship
- No
- Company size
- 1000+
Design Release Engineer leading thermal components (heat exchangers, fans, compressors) for vehicle HVAC systems, coordinating suppliers and validation to meet performance and integration requirements.
Job Description
At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We’re turning today’s impossible into tomorrow’s standard —from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.
Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.
The Role
As a Design Release Engineer (DRE) for Active Thermal Hardware, you will lead the design, development, validation, and release of thermal management components and subsystems. This includes heat exchangers, cooling fans, shrouds, compressors, sensors, and associated hardware. You will collaborate cross functionally with internal teams and suppliers to ensure robust, cost effective, and timely delivery of components that meet vehicle performance and integration requirements. Specific subsystem performance responsibilities include impacts to coolant and refrigerant loop performance.
This role requires a high level of technical expertise, independent judgment, and leadership in managing complex engineering projects. You will be expected to drive innovation, resolve technical challenges, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across programs.
What You'll Do (Key Responsibilities)
Lead product development activities for thermal components and subsystems.
Develop and release components to meet requirements, Statement of Requirements (SOR), Component Technical Specifications (CTS), and Subsystem Technical Specifications (SSTS).
Conduct design studies, peer reviews, alternative analyses, and recommend design direction based on cost, total enterprise cost, performance, mass, timing, ability to manufacture, quality and part assembly process.
Define Interface Control Document (ICD) requirements and negotiate with interfacing components (mechanical, electrical, software, calibration).
Manage supplier relationships and ensure timely execution of deliverables.
Coordinate cross functional activities with Purchasing, Supplier Quality, Vehicle Validation, Calibration, Manufacturing, Technical Specialists, and Design teams.
Support and lead Product Development Team (PDT) meetings and peer reviews.
Ensures complete validation of released components and establishment of a validation plan.
Validate designs using analytical tools (e.g., FEA, CFD, modal analysis, virtual builds).
Ensure compliance with GM standards, best practices, and program imperatives.
Lead problem solving efforts for production and launch issues.
Translate lessons learned into best practices and apply them in future designs.
Stay abreast of emerging technologies and support test and development programs.
Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Thermal Engineering.
Minimum 5 years of experience in component or subsystem design and release.
Strong understanding of thermal systems, HVAC, and fluid handling components.
Proficiency in CAD (UGNX preferred), Teamcenter, and engineering analysis tools.
Experience with validation planning and execution.
Strong communication and project management skills.
Ability to travel (up to 20%) and legally operate a motor vehicle.
Preferred Certifications
DFSS Green Belt Certification (Black Belt preferred)
GD&T Certification (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing)
Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) training
FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) training or certification
DRBFM (Design Review Based on Failure Mode) training
CAD/CAE Tool Proficiency Certification (UGNX preferred)
What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
Prior GM experience with thermal or HVAC components.
Familiarity with GM tools and processes (ECM, PRTS, ICD, ECR, SOR, TWO, GVDP, GD&T).
Experience with Development, Validation, Warranty Analysis, DRBFM, DFMEA, PFMEA, and GM Quality Chain.
Knowledge of manufacturing processes and vehicle integration.
Experience leading cross functional teams and supplier management.
About GM
Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.
Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day – individually and collectively – to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Benefits Overview
From day one, we're looking out for your well-being–at work and at home–so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.
Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)
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We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
Accommodations
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