Prototype Engineer

Position Summary

Key Responsibilities

• Lead planning, fabrication, assembly, and delivery of prototype seats and components for development programs.
• Manage prototype builds for RFQs, design reviews, DV/PV testing, customer evaluations, and launch readiness.
• Coordinate with Design, Testing, Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, and Program Management teams.
• Drive rapid resolution of engineering issues identified during prototype builds and validation activities.
• Manage prototype shop operations, including manpower, equipment, safety, quality, and resource utilization.
• Support preparation of prototypes for durability, comfort, abuse, jounce & squirm, regulatory, and crash testing.
• Interface with suppliers for prototype tooling, sample parts, and low-volume development requirements.
• Control prototype budgets, track development costs, and implement cost and lead-time reduction initiatives.
• Support OEM reviews, customer meetings, build events, and technical discussions.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical / Automobile Engineering.
• 10-15 years of experience in automotive product development, with at least 5 years in prototype engineering or seating development.
• Experience in automotive seating systems, mechanisms, structures, foam, trim, and validation processes preferred.

Technical Skills

• Automotive Seating Systems & Components
• Prototype Fabrication & Build Processes
• GD&T and Engineering Drawings
• APQP, DFMEA, PFMEA, DVP&R
• CAD Tools Know how (CATIA)
• PLM Systems
• Problem-Solving Tools (8D, 5 Why)

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• On-time Prototype Delivery
• First-Time-Right Build Quality
• Engineering Change Implementation Speed
• Prototype Cost Adherence
• Validation & Customer Support Responsiveness
• Prototype Shop Productivity & Utilization

Leadership Competencies

Sayali.Dhende@tmseating.com