Design & Release Engineer - Exterior Lighting

Auburn Hills · Troy, MI · 0-5 years experience · Full-time · Posted Oct 13, 2026

At a glance

As a Design & Release Engineer (DRE) for Exterior Lighting, you will play a pivotal role in the development, validation, and industrialization of exterior lighting systems.
This role combines design engineering with rigorous testing and release processes to ensure that lighting components meet performance, safety, regulatory, and cost targets.
You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and manufacturing plants to deliver high-quality lighting solutions from concept to mass production.

Support the design of exterior lighting components using 3D/2D modeling tools such as NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks.
Assist in optimizing designs for performance, manufacturability, and cost efficiency.
Collaborate with optical and electrical teams to integrate lighting systems into vehicle architectures.
Contribute to system requirement definitions including optical performance, thermal management, and regulatory compliance.
Work with suppliers to develop and iterate prototypes based on testing feedback.
Plan and execute Design Verification Plans (DVP&R) to validate lighting components against specifications.
Conduct functional and durability tests including environmental, thermal, vibration, and regulatory compliance tests.
Analyze test results and troubleshoot failures using 8D reports, CPRT, or Quality Alert tools.
Assist in managing engineering changes and temporary/permanent deviations.
Coordinate with suppliers to implement DFMEAs and PFMEAs for risk mitigation.

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
0–5 years of experience in automotive engineering (OEM or Tier 1), with exposure to design, testing, or release processes.
Proficiency in 3D/2D modeling tools (NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks).
Basic understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing).
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively (written and verbal).
Fluent in English for technical discussions.

Internships or co-op experience in lighting systems, electronics, or automotive components.
Familiarity with automotive lighting regulations such as FMVSS and ECE.
Knowledge of LED technology, optics, or thermal management.
Exposure to DFMEA, DVP&R, or Six Sigma with Green Belt certification as a plus.
Familiarity with PLM systems such as Teamcenter or Windchill.
Master’s degree in Engineering or a related field.
Experience with automotive exterior lighting development like headlamps and taillights.
Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, or validation in a manufacturing environment.

As a federal contractor, Alten USA maintains a drug-free workplace and requires successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening as a condition of hire.