Skip to main content
Build a future you can believe in.

Product Development Engineer-Interior/Exterior Hardware Integration

Job ID
71012
Location
Dearborn, Michigan
Category
PD Operations and Quality

Overview

At Ford, you’ll work on ideas that matter, alongside passionate people who want to make a global impact. Together, we’re shaping the next era of transportation—grounded in purpose, driven by progress. Make your move.

  • Job Type: Full time
  • Work Type: Hybrid

We made history and now we work to transform the future – for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.

Product Development uses design thinking & user experience methods to deliver breakthrough products and services that delight our customers. We bring innovative, exciting, and sustainable ideas to life.We have opportunities around the world for you to contribute to advancements in autonomy, electrification, smart mobility technologies, and more!

VHE (Vehicle Hardware Engineering) integration engineer for forward model programs acts as the single point of contact for Program to Functional Engineering, ensuring and coordinating functional support and assisting functional teams in any way possible to remove roadblocks and get the job done. 

  1. Systems Integration & Single Point of Contact: Serve as the primary point of contact for program team seeking functional engineering assistance, ensuring seamless collaboration and problem resolution. Provide comprehensive systems integration support within the functional departments.
  2. Priority Alignment & Team Coordination: Facilitate the alignment of priorities within the functional department and between program teams, coordinating actions with functional teams to ensure successful achievement of program milestones.
  3. Program Delivery & Process Ownership: Drive the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective solutions in accordance with program timelines, assuming program management responsibility for assigned systems.
  4. Performance Management & Target Achievement: Manage processes, metrics, and deliverables to consistently meet program targets and timelines, tracking progress, implementing corrective actions, and ensuring overall program success.

What you'll do...

  • Program Content Alignment: Support functional alignment with program assumptions, ensuring engineering design reviews and work streams are consistent with program timing. PDL change support through Program development, providing necessary updates and feedback for accurate verbiage and agreement on added content. 
  • VHE Meeting Leadership: Establish VHE integration meeting cadence and manages the agenda, schedule SharePoint and chair discussions. Documents and distributes meeting agendas, minutes, and open issues lists, serving as main communication channel of Program updates to functional teams. Serve as the primary liaison between Functional/Core teams, attribute teams, and Program, ensuring effective communication and collaboration. 
  • Integration Coaching: Provide guidance to Function Engineers on systems, tools, forms, and templates necessary to support the program and should assist D&R engineer if they see issues during the application.
  • Target Management & Performance:  Manage with the Function, commodity planning, development of complexity status, and part-level cost targets. Maintain a roadmap, action plan, and drive gap closure. 
  • Sourcing & Commodity Planning: Support Functional To4 on cost processes, from Key Commodity Planning to final sign-off of commodity targets with the supplier. Support DEA, Attachment C, and 1st Engineering Concept. Lead the receipt and tracking of SAL/CPA to final sign-off.
  • Quality Planning & Management: Develop FMA planning for VHE commodities in alignment with Program content and driven by Functional team analysis. Manage Quality deliverables (RCL, DFMEA, SCCAF, etc) to support Engineering Milestones, ensuring timely updates subject to engineering changes, and sign-off completion for cross-functional alignment.
  • Milestone Support & Declaration: Support Engineering Milestone reviews with VEV SO and Program teams, representing the Functional areas. Manage Functional Engineering teams to ensure they complete deliverable assessments on time (FEDE WB & GI). Ensure recovery plans are in place for late deliverables, enabling on-time and quality Milestone declaration.
  • Data Integrity & System Alignment: Manage functional CAD to BOM alignment. Support Packaging and DPA workstreams, managing fallout from misalignment reports and E2KS issues. Ensure timely updates of required information in BOM, CAD, weight, and quality documents; as well as D/R sign-off for robustness.
  • Design Verification & Compliance: Manage total Design Verification (DV) planning and timing to support program Milestone deliverables. Confirm conformance to design rules, regulations and requirements; coordinate CDR documentation and sign off; and consolidate potential deviations. 
  • Change Control Management: Ensure timely updates of required information to maintain a robust BOM and guarantee build stability. Attend CPE Decision Forums as required to manage changes and support approval. For Initial P-Release, establish glidepath and ensure adherence to it, coordinating Functional Engineering groups, CAD team, Suppliers, and VO for on-time sign-off and release. After P-Release, lead the functional concern process in WERS, supporting CR authorization and Notice release. 
  • Issue Resolution: Lead issue resolution, prioritizing clear Root Cause identification. Coordinate cross-functional problem-solving and assist functional teams in removing roadblocks to drive containment actions. Ensure proper documentation of workplan maintaining AIMS system updated for on-time disposition and or escalation.
  • Prototype Build Support: Manage assembly illustration sign-off metrics. Lead the coordination of part pedigree and support procurement for bridging parts. Support the build process through vehicle sign-off. Manage binning of functional, assembly, and/or supplier quality issues raised during build and/or testing, and coordinate issue resolution workstreams within AIMS.
  • Launch Support: Manage Engineering LQOS Metrics for all builds; including Change Control, BOM & Part Sign Off, Part Pedigree status, AIMS and OSM (Campaigns).
    • Part Pedigree Status Support: Attend OTG meetings to review and address Engineering open issues to meet PPAP target and documenting Support Plan and Risk Assessment through Alert as required.
    • On-site Build Support: Lead the assembly process for the Functional area at Production Plant Build events. Support binning and manage issue resolution for Whiteboard & DEMS calls, as well as for Quality audits, such as PDI, FCPA, FER & R202.
    • TVM Implementation Support: Manage Launch added TVM actions no differently from planned program PDL content. Recommend and support Engineering due diligence – incl. CAD compatibility & Sub-systems interface review, Manufacturing and Supplier feasibility assessment, as well as DV sign off plan. Help coordinate STA engagement for PPAP delivery to support launch metrics and industrialization plan.
    • PVT Program Hand off: Support PVT and Functional Engineering on any stop ships that occur prior to Plant Launch Exit completed. Help coordinate immediate reaction with Functional and STA teams to address stop ship/build issues.

You'll have...

Bachelor’s degree in engineering.

10+ years of experience in automotive Interiors preferred but will consider similar experience with Exteriors in addition to comprehensive knowledge of vehicle components and system functions.

Even better, you may have...
Master's degree in engineering.

Design and Release Engineering or Vehicle Engineering experience is preferred.

Strong fundamentals and working knowledge of GPDS engineering milestones & GPDS process.

Experience in the Cost Setting Process and Functional Led Cost/Appearance Delivery Process a benefit.

Outstanding written and verbal communication skills (open, clear, and inclusive).

Outstanding leadership skills with demonstrated ability to deliver results.

Demonstrated organizational and delegation skills with proper follow-up.

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple issues effectively and efficiently.

Demonstrated ability to prioritize workload managing immediate and future needs.

Ability to build strong effective relationships with cross functional teams (Program, Purchasing, Finance, Engineering).

Onsite collaboration expected for at least 4 days per week.

You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!

As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder…or all of the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
• Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
• Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
• Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
• Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
• Tuition assistance
• Established and active employee resource groups
• Paid time off for individual and team community service 
• A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day 
• Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time. 

This position is a salary grade 5 and ranges from $65,100-$109,300.

This position is a salary grade 6 and ranges from $74,300-$124,500.

This position is a salary grade 7 and ranges from $86,600-$144,900.

This position is a salary grade 8 and ranges from $99,100-$166,200.  


Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.

For more information on salary and benefits, click here: https://fordcareers.co/GSR. 

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.

This position is hybrid with a requirement to be onsite four or more days per week. 

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-DW1 

#VehicleHardwareEngineering   

Looking for jobs tailored to you?

Upload Your Resume

Change the world with your ideas.

Speak up. We’re listening. At Ford, we believe the right ideas, and the people behind them, can move an entire industry. Here, you'll work with teams who value your voice, push bold ideas forward, and leave a mark that lasts.

An office lobby with people in various activities.

Support designed to go the distance.

From day one, Ford invests in you with medical benefits built to help you plan for what’s next. You’ll also get support for you and your family that meets you at every step, so you can move forward with confidence.

  • Health and Wellness

    Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, mental health, and unique wellness perks keep you and your family supported every step of the way.

  • Financial and Retirement Programs

    Build a strong financial future with robust retirement contributions, savings programs, and free personalized financial planning tools.

  • Flexible Vacation and Holidays

    Enjoy your time away from work with generous vacation, holidays, and flexible family leave designed to help you balance life and work with ease.

  • Vehicle Discount Program

    The best thing about building great products is driving them! The second-best thing: sharing your discount with family and friends so they can drive them, too.

  • Family Growth and Support

    Grow your family confidently with fertility, surrogacy, and adoption assistance, paid parental leave, and a supportive new-parent ramp-up program.

  • Additional Programs

    Enjoy unexpected extras like pet insurance, legal services, identity protection, and access to convenient health and wellness services.

Testimonial

Ford gives me the space to innovate, to lead, and to serve — all while staying true to who I am as an engineer, educator, and parent. It’s not just a career; it’s a community that drives change.

Related Content

  • A century of tailgate innovation.

    Read our Tailgate Tale

    For nearly a century, Ford engineers have adapted and improved tailgate experiences to meet the needs of station wagon, SUV and truck customers.
  • The women of Ford from the 1950s to the 1980s.

    Making History

    Women of Ford: 1950s-1980s Looking to the women of the past to inspire our future.
  • The women of Ford from the 1990s to 2020s.

    Follow Her Lead

    Women of Ford: 1990s-2020s Looking to the women of the past to inspire our future.
  • Interns off road on Ford's testing grounds.

    We Sent 4 Interns Off Road on Our Testing Grounds

    Our communications interns were sent out to the proving grounds to put their off-roading assumptions to the test. Learn how they discovered what drivers actually need from their in-vehicle tech when the pavement ends.
  • What did Ford interns do this summer?

    Real interns. Real work. Real impact.

    Ford interns share what it's actually like to work here, from helping shape the next-gen Bronco to building tools that save engineers time. No coffee runs, just real projects and real teams invested in their growth.
  • Meet Grace Hanke: Vehicle Hardware Engineer at Ford.

    From Tiaras to Transmissions

    Meet Grace Hanke: Ford engineering intern by day, Miss Michigan by night. She's balancing hands-on work on the Vehicle Hardware Engineering team with pageant prep, all while championing her own initiative, to inspire young women in STEM. See how she's turning two worlds into one powerful story of leadership and drive.
  • Ford deepens commitment to Kentucky.

    Ford Deepens Commitment to Kentucky with New Investment in Manufacturing Growth

    We're investing $1 billion for a new state-of-the-art paint shop at Kentucky Truck Plant, bringing our total of recent investment in the state to approximately $5 billion. For more than a century, Ford and Kentucky have grown together, and we’re proud to be Kentucky’s largest auto manufacturer, with more than 11,500 employees.
  • Ford Proud to Honor presents the Veterans Day Classic.

    Six Teams. Six Branches of the Military. One Legendary Track.

    Ford, in collaboration with NASCAR, Blue Star Families, IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) and HSR (Historic Sportscar Racing), is bringing together motorsports, music and a shared mission of military support for one unforgettable night, all in support of our service members, veterans and their families.
  • Ford Canada

    Ford Canada

    Discover career opportunities at Ford of Canada across manufacturing, engineering, software development, skilled trades, and corporate functions. Learn about internships, training programs, and why Ford is recognized as a top employer in Canada.
  • Ford employees in Mexico.

    Ford Mexico

    Ya sea que estés comenzando tu carrera o buscando dar el siguiente paso, Ford of Mexico te brinda la oportunidad de trabajar junto a equipos talentosos que están definiendo los vehículos y las tecnologías del mañana. Explora las vacantes disponibles y descubre programas diseñados para ayudarte a crecer, desarrollar nuevas habilidades y generar un impacto real.
  • BlueOval Battery Park Michigan

    BlueOval Battery Park Michigan

    Discover career opportunities at BlueOval Battery Park Michigan, America’s first automaker-backed LFP battery plant. We’re creating 1,700 new jobs to build the next generation of Ford electric vehicles, foster innovation, and strengthen our community.
  • Employees at Long Beach Ford office.

    Ford US

    Explore why Ford is America's most iconic company. Learn about our iconic history, innovative culture, and available roles across the U.S. and globally.
  • Ford career opportunities in Michigan.

    Life in Michigan

    Discover exciting career opportunities at Ford in Michigan, where history meets high-tech innovation. From our World Headquarters to iconic manufacturing hubs, join a global team shaping the future of mobility in the place where it all began.
  • Ford Designers showcase new technology on a clay inside the showroom after the announcement of a new Ford World Headquarters.

    Ford Design

    Explore rewarding design careers at Ford, where innovation meets customer-centric experiences. Join a global team in Dearborn, Shanghai, Melbourne, and more to create must-have products and iconic vehicles.
  • Ford human resources team.

    Human Resources

    Explore exciting HR career opportunities at Ford. Whether you're coaching leaders or shaping workforce strategies, Ford offers a dynamic environment where you can accelerate your career with an iconic brand.
  • Ford employees in India collaborating.

    Ford Business Solutions India

    Explore rewarding career opportunities at Ford Business Solutions, India. Join a global hub of technology and business services with over 12,000 employees. Whether you’re an expert in AI, digital marketing, or financial analysis, work on transformative projects that redefine industry boundaries.
  • Ford employee at Kansas City Assembly Plant.

    Kansas City Assembly Plant

    Join the team building America’s best-selling vehicles like the Ford F-150 and Ford Transit at Kansas City Assembly Plant (KCAP) in Claycomo, Missouri. From skilled trades and hourly production roles to salaried professional positions, KCAP offers comprehensive benefits and a pathway to build your own legacy.
  • Ford vehicle hardware engineering team shape's tomorrow's cars.

    Vehicle Hardware Engineering

    Build the future with Ford’s VHE team. Develop electric vehicles, driver-assist features, and smart mobility solutions. Join a global team of engineers shaping tomorrow’s cars.
  • Ford Argentina.

    Ford Argentina

    Discover a career at Ford Argentina, where over 100 years of legacy meets Manufacturing 4.0 innovation. Ford Argentina offers transformative opportunities in manufacturing, engineering, product development, and marketing. With programs designed for personal and professional growth, Ford empowers employees to thrive.
  • Ford Argentina

    Ford Argentina

    Súmate a equipos excepcionales que trabajan todos los días para definir el futuro de la movilidad. Descubre las oportunidades de carrera que Ford Argentina tiene para ti y sé parte de una compañía que combina tradición, innovación y visión de futuro.
  • Ford Brazil

    Ford Brazil

    Explore tech careers, internships, and training programs at Ford Brazil. Join a team driving innovation in connectivity, electrification, and community impact.
  • Ford Brazil

    Ford Brazil

    Explore carreiras em tecnologia, estágios e programas de treinamento na Ford Brasil. Junte-se a uma equipe que impulsiona a inovação em conectividade, eletrificação e impacto na comunidade.
  • Ford employees in the United Kingdom.

    Ford UK

    Discover rewarding career opportunities at Ford UK, the nation’s number one car and commercial vehicle manufacturer. Learn about our culture of innovation, community engagement, and well-being, and find jobs aligned with your skills and passions.
  • Ford manufacturing

    Ford Manufacturing

    Discover manufacturing careers at Ford where teamwork, continuous learning, and pride in craft drive success. From assembly lines and skilled trades to engineering and plant leadership, Ford offers comprehensive benefits, clear expectations, and careers built to last.

Jobs For You.

Explore roles tailored to your interests, based on your preferences and experience.

Be the first to know about new jobs.

SIGN UP FOR JOB ALERTS

Keep up on all the latest opportunities at Ford.

Interested InSelect a job category from the list, then search for a location. For broader job alerts, choose a state instead of a specific city. Interested in opportunities in multiple states or locations? Add each one individually to your alert. Click 'Add' to finish.

  • PD Operations and Quality, Dearborn, Michigan, United StatesRemove

By submitting your information, you acknowledge that you have read our privacy policy and consent to receive email communication from Ford.

Looking for jobs tailored to you?

Upload Your Resume