Seat Heat Vent System Release Engineer

Job Summary:

• The Seating Heat & Ventilation Design Release Engineer (DRE) is responsible for the end-to-end design, development, validation, and launch of heated and ventilated seat systems across Client vehicle programs.
• This role owns the technical definition, release, and ongoing quality performance of the seat thermal comfort features, working closely with cross-functional teams and external suppliers to deliver best-in-class customer comfort, quality, and value.

Key Responsibilities:

• Own the design and release of seat heating and ventilation components and systems (heatermats, blowers, plenums, foam interfaces, harnesses, etc.) from concept through production.
• Develop and maintain component and system-level technical specifications, design documents, and engineering standards for heated and ventilated seating.
• Lead packaging and integration of heat and ventilation systems into seat complete/structures and foam, ensuring compliance with ergonomics, safety, comfort, manufacturability, and serviceability requirements.
• Create and maintain engineering documentation in Client systems (e.g., part numbers, BOMs, drawings, 3D dataetc).
• Coordinate with suppliers on design proposals, DFMEAs, DVP&Rs, timing plans, and cost/feasibility studies; drive robust design solutions that meet Client performance targets.
• Plan and execute validation activities for seat heat & ventilation systems, including thermal performance testing, durability, environmental, and regulatory compliance.
• Analyze test data, identify root cause of issues, and drive corrective actions and design changes to closure.
• Support vehicle builds (mules, pilots, PPAP, launch) by resolving fit, finish, function, and electrical/thermal performance issues in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with Electrical, HVAC, HMI, Body, and Vehicle Integration teams to ensure seamless system operation, proper network communication (LIN/CAN), and robust control strategies.
• Manage engineering changes (CNs/ECNs), cost reductions, and quality improvements for in-production programs.
• Support functional safety, compliance, and regulatory requirements as applicable (thermal safety, occupant comfort and health, electrical safety, etc.).
• Track and report program status, risks, and open issues to management and program teams; maintain clear and organized openissue lists.
• Benchmark competitive seat comfort technologies and contribute to Client seating innovation roadmaps for thermal comfort and wellbeing.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Demonstrated leadership skills, ability to work autonomously, excellent communication skills, positive attitude, willingness to learn, flexibility, team-player, and attention to detail.
• Bachelor's Degree in Mechatronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university.
• 5+ years of engineering experience in the automotive industry.
• Hands-on experience with heated/ventilated/cooled seat systems, including interaction with foam, trim, HVAC, Modules and seat structures.
• Working knowledge of engineering fundamentals in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid flow, and/or HVAC integration.
• Prior experience in a Design Release Engineer (DRE) or System Responsible Engineer role at an OEM or Tier 1 supplier
• Proficiency with 3D CAD tools (CATIA, NX, or equivalent) for packaging and design review (detailed design experience is a plus).
• Experience with standard engineering tools and processes: DFMEA, DVP&R, root cause analysis, design reviews, and problem-solving methodologies.
• Experience with global project management and leading cross-functional teams.