Tire-Wheel Assembly Engineer

Ford•Dearborn, MI

About The Position

Be the lead interface to a global team of engineers and technical specialists focused on wheel and tire assembly processes and uniformity standards. Develop, validate, and maintain global assembly specifications for wheel and tire mounting, balancing, and inflation processes, ensuring adherence to design intent and manufacturing capabilities. Establish and continuously refine uniformity specifications and testing protocols to meet stringent performance, safety, and quality requirements across all vehicle platforms. Provide expert problem-solving support to assembly plants worldwide, diagnosing root causes of wheel and tire assembly issues and implementing robust corrective actions. Act as the primary technical interface with Ford plant vehicle operations teams, providing guidance, training, and support for assembly process optimization and issue resolution. Collaborate closely with tooling manufacturers to design, procure, and validate advanced assembly equipment and tooling that meets global production demands and quality targets. Interface with conveyor operations and material handling teams to ensure seamless integration of wheel and tire assembly processes within the broader manufacturing flow, optimizing ergonomics and efficiency. Drive continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing data from assembly processes, uniformity testing, and field performance to identify opportunities for enhancement and cost reduction. Manage projects related to new product launches, engineering changes, and process upgrades for wheel and tire assemblies, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery. Develop and implement training programs for plant personnel on best practices for wheel and tire assembly and quality control. Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements related to wheel and tire manufacturing and assembly. Foster a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and innovation within the global wheel and tire engineering team. Established and active employee resource groups

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Automotive, Manufacturing Engineering or a related field.
2 years of chassis experience in an automotive domain or similar.
Strong knowledge of automotive assembly line processes, Lean manufacturing principles, and quality control methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, PFMEA, DVP&R).
Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, 3DX) for design review and analysis.
Understanding of vehicle dynamics, material science, and regulatory compliance standards for wheels and tires.
Experience with data acquisition and analysis tools for performance and quality monitoring.
Strong analytical and problem-solving aptitude with a keen eye for detail.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate technical information clearly.
Eagerness to learn and develop.
Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Proactive, self-motivated, and detail-oriented.

Responsibilities

Be the lead interface to a global team of engineers and technical specialists focused on wheel and tire assembly processes and uniformity standards.
Develop, validate, and maintain global assembly specifications for wheel and tire mounting, balancing, and inflation processes, ensuring adherence to design intent and manufacturing capabilities.
Establish and continuously refine uniformity specifications and testing protocols to meet stringent performance, safety, and quality requirements across all vehicle platforms.
Provide expert problem-solving support to assembly plants worldwide, diagnosing root causes of wheel and tire assembly issues and implementing robust corrective actions.
Act as the primary technical interface with Ford plant vehicle operations teams, providing guidance, training, and support for assembly process optimization and issue resolution.
Collaborate closely with tooling manufacturers to design, procure, and validate advanced assembly equipment and tooling that meets global production demands and quality targets.
Interface with conveyor operations and material handling teams to ensure seamless integration of wheel and tire assembly processes within the broader manufacturing flow, optimizing ergonomics and efficiency.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing data from assembly processes, uniformity testing, and field performance to identify opportunities for enhancement and cost reduction.
Manage projects related to new product launches, engineering changes, and process upgrades for wheel and tire assemblies, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery.
Develop and implement training programs for plant personnel on best practices for wheel and tire assembly and quality control.
Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements related to wheel and tire manufacturing and assembly.
Foster a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and innovation within the global wheel and tire engineering team.