Job Purpose
The Application Engineer supports Light Vehicle Sealing programs by translating customer requirements into robust product designs, coordinating key APQP deliverables (e.g., DFMEA, DVP&R, issue tracking), and partnering with Validation and Manufacturing to enable successful launches. The role requires strong technical communication, disciplined documentation, and a continuous improvement mindset.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Support and promote a preventive safety culture throughout Dana.
- Support conceptual design, manufacturability, and validation activities for Light Vehicle Sealing product lines and new concepts.
- Communicate (in person, virtual, and written) with customer engineering during program development; support technical reviews, tech days, and design reviews as needed.
- Partner with Program Managers/Coordinators to support successful and timely customer launches; participate in Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VA/VE) activities.
- Create, maintain, and report status on key program documents:
- Design and engineering open-issues log (actions, owners, timing).
- Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA).
- Design Verification Plan & Report (DVP&R) and progress reporting.
- Program archive (e.g., design releases/approvals, requirements, test reports, lessons learned).
- Coordinate with the Validation group to execute validation per the DVP&R; develop test concepts to validate unique component features.
- Interface with manufacturing facilities to ensure designs meet manufacturing requirements and can be produced consistently.
- Participate in a culture of continual learning, continuous improvement, and cooperation.
- Maintain awareness of competitor activity relevant to Light Vehicle Sealing programs.
Education and Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to present technical information clearly and concisely.
- 3–5 years automotive experience with internal combustion engine sealing; preferably cylinder head gaskets, exhaust gaskets, and secondary stamped metal gaskets.
- Working knowledge of gasket design fundamentals (e.g., load path/clamping, sealing beads/embossments, coatings) and stamped metal gasket manufacturing considerations.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and GD&T; capable of supporting tolerance stack-up/fit-function reviews and using 3D CAD/2D drafting to support concept development and release readiness.
- Experience supporting APQP deliverables (DFMEA, DVP&R) and familiarity with PPAP expectations for launch support.
