Engineer, Power Closure Systems

Here at Scout Motors, we're carrying forward the heritage of one of the most iconic American vehicles in history. A vehicle dating back to 1960. One that forged the path for future generations of rugged SUVs and will do so once again.

But Scout is more than just a brand, it’s a legacy steeped in a culture of exploration, caretaking, and hard work.

The Scout brand is all about respect. Respect for the environment by developing electric vehicles with the capability to get you to any location. Respect for the past and the future by taking an iconic American brand that hasn’t been around for a while, electrifying it, digitizing it, and loading it with American innovation. Respect for communities by creating a company that stands for its people and its customers. And respect for both work and play, with vehicles that are equally at home at a camp site, a job site, or on a Tuesday commute.

At Scout Motors, we empower our talented, inclusive, and entrepreneurial teams to innovate. What makes a Scout employee? Someone who is a visionary and a leader, who seeks new paths and shares lessons learned. A knowledgeable doer who collaborates across the company to build better. A go-getter with unrivaled passion.

Join us at Scout Motors and be part of shaping the future of transportation. If you're ready to drive change and make history, apply now!

What you’ll do

Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following:

As an Engineer, Power Closure Systems, you will be involved in the “cradle to grave” approach to design & development. Expected to create concept design for novel solutions to current and new opportunities. Lead analysis of concept and final product, testing and launch, commercial and timing activities, and work with studio, manufacturing team and purchasing.

• Lead conceptual studies to solve unique problems in unique ways.
• Generate solution: concepts in ‘napkin sketch’ - fully analyzed physical prototypes - released and launched parts.
• Lead collaborative development of components and systems including interface with body engineering, electrical, manufacturing, studio design, quality, and customer experience teams.
• Perform kinematic and structural analysis to optimize designs.
• Responsible for component release for components and systems throughout program lifecycle, including concept design, supplier engagement, BOM management, systems requirements, simulation analysis, prototyping builds, validation testing, and production support.
• Work with the manufacturing team to develop the assembly process and find solutions to manufacturing issues.
• Manage cost and weight for components and systems from initial engineering estimates, through supplier quotes. Ensuring accurate forecasting and implementation plans throughout the development.
• Developing and managing your system, subsystem, and component part information.
• Interface with Body Sheet Metal (BIW & Closures), Electrical, Feature Owner & Software Delivery to serve as the integrator for Power Systems
• Be a champion of 1st principles design methodology in the body closures systems and across the entire vehicle.
• Engage in debate and represent the department as a stakeholder during design reviews.
• Mentor and help develop other less experienced engineers.
• Coordinate supplier meetings, track, investigate and resolve issues related to design.

Location & Travel Expectations:

• This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Novi, Michigan. 
• The responsibilities of this role require regular attendance in office with in-person meetings and events regularly. 
• Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time.

What you’ll bring 

We expect all Scout employees to have integrity, curiosity, resourcefulness, and strive to exhibit a positive attitude, as well as a growth mindset. You’ll be comfortable with change and flexible in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You’ll take a collaborative approach to achieve ambitious goals. Here's what else you'll bring: 

• Bachelor of Science in an engineering discipline (Master’s degree and significant experience is a plus)
• 3 + years’ experience in Automotive Power Closures development or equivalent industry experience.
• Understanding of product requirements and closures features to deliver world class customer experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Power Closure Systems Application Design
  • Power motors and Electrical/Software Interfaces
  • Closures mechanisms – Handles, Latches, Spindle Drives
  • Sealing Systems – Dynamic Weatherstrips, Glass Run Systems
  • Power System Attributes – Closing/Opening Efforts, Closing/Opening PWM of Motors, NVH, Power spindle/Latch Acoustics, Door Speed Dynamics
  • Basic understanding of Power closures Calibration & ability to Root cause issues
• Strong understanding of 1st principal physics of a closures system –loads, forces, and overall function of the system, and tradeoffs among design, package, function, and customer experience involved with these systems.
• Ability to self-direct, self-managing issues to closure involving all necessary teams, and adapt quickly to program changes.
• Strong desire to create unique methods for analysis using tools available.
• CAD design experience for closures systems or related vehicle components. Catia V5 and/or 3DX experience preferred but not required.
• Advanced use of tools for analyzing structural performance, motion forces, kinematic performance, manufacturing options with rapid iterations (ADAMS, Inspire or equivalent experience preferred but not required)
• Knowledge of an automotive design and development process, system requirements, and general engineering best practices.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills with a high level of integrity.
• Ability to deliver under pressure and manage component design & development within cost, weight, and timing constraints.
• Willingness to travel to suppliers, manufacturing, and testing facilities as required throughout product development.

What you'll gain

The benefits of joining Scout include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up.  This is a chance to create something new and lasting – with an iconic brand at its foundation.  In addition, Scout provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Program specifics are detailed in company policies and employee benefit guides, select highlights:

• Competitive insurance including:
  • Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with:
  • An employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including:
  • 20 days planned PTO, as accrued
  • 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually
  • Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
  • Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

Pay Transparency

This is a full-time, exempt position eligible to receive a base salary and to participate in an annual performance bonus program. Final salary offered will be determined based on factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills and experience. The annual performance bonus program is preset and not candidate dependent.

Initial base salary range = $120,000.00 - $135,000.00

Internal leveling code: IC9

Notice to applicants:

• Residing in San Francisco: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. 
• Residing in Los Angeles: Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. 
• Residing in New York City: This role is not eligible for remote work in New York City.

Equal Opportunity

Scout is committed to employing a diverse workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, or any other characteristics protected by law. Scout is committed to compliance with all applicable fair employment practice laws. If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, or a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact ScoutAccommodations@scoutmotors.com.