We are looking for a highly skilled Project Lead in Automotive with extensive experience in CATIA V5, PLM systems, and interior plastic component design.
The ideal candidate must have prior exposure to European OEM/Tier-1 projects, strong knowledge of European automotive regulations, and proven expertise in developing high-quality interior & exterior systems.
The candidate should also have strong experience in managing engineering teams and delivering projects in a global environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the design and development of plastic interior components, including instrument panels, consoles, door trims, pillars, seat trims, and other cabin plastic systems.
Contribute to trims, closures interfaces, and BIW integration (added advantage).
Create, modify, and validate 3D CAD models and 2D drawings in CATIA V5 / UGNX (Part Design, Assembly, Drafting modules).
Ensure all designs comply with European/US automotive standards, regulations, and project-specific codes.
Collaborate with styling, manufacturing, CAE, quality, and supplier engineering teams within European/US project environments.
Utilize PLM systems such as ENOVIA or Teamcenter for data management and engineering release processes.
Conduct feasibility studies, packaging checks, and plastic design validations including draft analysis, wall thickness checks, ribs, bosses, clips, and tolerance stack-ups.
Lead and support DFM/DFA activities and DFMEA preparation and reviews.
Support prototype builds (Proto builds), validation, and issue resolution.
Develop product documentation, BOM structures, and design reports for European customer programs.
Interact with European OEMs/Tier-1 customers to gather requirements, resolve issues, and ensure design acceptance.
Lead and manage a team of 20 engineers, ensuring quality and timely delivery of projects.
Mentor junior engineers and enforce best practices in plastic design and CAD methodology.
Required Skills & Qualifications
Bachelor's in mechanical/automotive engineering or related field.
15–18 years of hands-on experience in automotive interiors, plastic components design & development.
Strong experience in managing teams (15–20 members) and leading projects.
Strong knowledge of PLM systems and engineering release workflows.
Deep understanding of plastic part design fundamentals including drafts, splits, ribs, clips, mounting, warpage considerations, and tooling feasibility.
Strong experience in automotive trims, plastics, and closures systems (BIW exposure is an added advantage).
Experience in DFM, DFA, DFMEA, and prototype build processes.
Experience working on European OEM/Tier-1 projects with understanding of standards and coding systems.
Knowledge of European automotive regulatory requirements including safety, crash, ergonomic, and environmental standards.
Strong familiarity with GD&T.
Excellent communication and customer interaction skills.
