Applications Engineer at Mando America Corp – Novi, Michigan

Purpose:

This role serves as the primary technical interface between HL Mando and the Customer, leading the negotiation, planning, execution, and reporting of validation (DV/PV/Post SOP) testing on braking components including calipers, EMB, drum brakes, master cylinders, boosters, and vacuum-less boost products.

Key Responsibilities include the following (other duties may be assigned as needed):

• Pursue new business opportunities by coordinating with multifunctional teams to develop competitive product proposals that align with HL Mando’s business plan.
• Support Customer requirement analysis in collaboration with multifunctional teams. Assist the System Engineer to work on System aspects.
• Collaborate with Design Engineers to prepare materials and support technical reviews with Customers. Provide further support by tracking Customer packaging info and communicating changes.
• Support project timelines for engineering deliverables and coordinate with PM to oversee manufacturing deliverables.
• Program open issues and PDT meetings: track and maintain issue lists, flag unresolved items early, collaborate with PM and team to drive closure, and schedule/lead customer PDT meetings.
• Collaborate with PM, MDT, and Design Engineer to gather information for gate reviews, and flag potential issues or roadblocks early.
• Coordinate efforts to complete all phases of the Product Development Process (APQP, DFMEA, PFMEA, KPC definition, etc).
• Oversee all prototype builds, with help and collaboration from Design Engineer, Test Coordinator and PM. Identify alternative approaches to optimize lead-time and reduce costs.
• Lead DV/PV activities with support from Design Engineer, PM, and Technicians; write and track DVP&R, MES Spec, summarize results and review with Design Engineer, and present findings to Customers while negotiating countermeasure timing. Implement methods to solve the issues (statistical knowledge, Red X, QR Sigma, BPSS)
• Lead the multifunctional team to support plant efforts during manufacturing reviews, trials and documentation.
• Lead capture of lessons learned and ensure corrective actions are implemented and shared with Team Members.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field required; equivalent experience in testing or technical sales may be considered.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in product engineering and product development or related field.
• Preference given to candidates with OEM customer interaction and a preferred specialization in braking components (calipers, EMB, drum brakes, master cylinder, boosters, or vacuum-less boost products).
• Brake system sizing experience is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; able to apply academic knowledge to practical challenges
• Proficient in MS Office; Visual Basic programming and macro creation a plus
• Proficient in MS Project
• Strong communication skills (verbal, written, listening)
• Results-oriented with a sense of ownership
• Sound judgment and creative decision-making
• Effective planning and organizational skills
• Ability to collaborate across departments to ensure timely delivery
• Proactive in recommending and implementing process improvements

Legal Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years of age due to federal labor law requirements.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Supervisory Responsibility: None.

Working Conditions: This position typically operates in an office environment. Occasional travel may be required for training sessions, testing reviews, customer and supplier visits and colloquiums.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer. Monitor/computer stands can be provided for working while standing.
• Occasional lifting of items up to 30 lbs.
• Frequent walking, standing, and bending as needed to perform duties.

Remote Work: Eligible for Hybrid Remote Work Schedule.

Compensation and Benefits: Competitive Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits package includes health, dental & vision insurance, life insurance and other supplemental benefits, 401(k) plan, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: HL Mando is an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or disability status.