FoM PD Academy: Hardware Engineer

Ignite Your Career in Automotive Innovation with Ford!

Are you a passionate, recently graduated engineer eager to dive into the heart of automotive innovation? The FoM PD Academy (Product Development Academy) offers an unparalleled opportunity for aspiring engineers to accelerate their careers within the dynamic world of Ford's Product Development. This program is designed to cultivate the next generation of automotive leaders, immersing you in cutting-edge projects that drive technological advancements and innovation across various facets of vehicle development.

About the Role: PD Academy Hardware Engineer

As a PD Academy Hardware Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in bringing future Ford vehicles to life. You will be instrumental in translating complex product requirements into tangible, functional hardware components, from initial concept through to production. This hands-on role involves designing, developing, and rigorously testing hardware solutions, ensuring they meet Ford's stringent quality, performance, and safety standards. You'll gain invaluable experience across the entire product lifecycle, contributing to real-world challenges and learning from industry experts.

Why Join the FoM PD Academy?

Accelerated Growth: This program is specifically designed to fast-track your development through hands-on projects, mentorship, and dedicated learning opportunities. Impactful Work: Contribute to the development of cutting-edge automotive technologies that will shape the future of mobility. Innovative Environment: Work alongside world-class engineers in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment. Real-World Experience: Apply your academic knowledge to solve complex, real-world engineering challenges from day one. Global Exposure: Be part of a global team, contributing to products that will reach millions of customers worldwide.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree (BS) in an engineering discipline such as Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a closely related field. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to articulate complex technical information clearly and concisely. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Demonstrated knowledge of 3D CAD software tools and principles. A foundational understanding of vehicle functions and the interaction between various automotive systems. Knowledge of materials properties and their application in engineering design. Familiarity with production and manufacturing processes relevant to hardware components. Understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles and their application in design and manufacturing. Working knowledge of failure mode analysis (FMA) and root cause analysis (RCA) methodologies.

Preferred Qualifications:

Familiarity with Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) methods, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA) or Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Coursework or project experience related to sound and/or mechanical vibration, thermodynamics, or heat transfer. Basic knowledge of statistical analysis principles. Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, Java, VBA, or MATLAB, particularly for data analysis, automation, or simulation.

Experience or familiarity with quality methodologies such as Six Sigma (DMAIC/DFSS) or other robustness tools.

Ford Motor Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, as we are committed with a diverse workforce, and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant
for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran and basis of disability.
 

Key Responsibilities

CAD Design & Modeling: Expertly operate and leverage 3D CAD software such as CATIA, Teamcenter (TC), and Teamcenter Visualization (TcVIs) to develop and refine high-quality CAD concepts and design alternatives with speed and precision. Design Automation: Proactively identify and apply automation tools and scripting techniques to enhance design efficiency, reduce iteration cycles, and improve overall productivity. Supplier Collaboration: Collaborate closely with internal manufacturing teams, tool shops, and external suppliers to resolve complex feasibility challenges, address appearance and attribute concerns, and ensure functional integrity from design to production. Technical Documentation & Management: Create, manage, and maintain comprehensive engineering documentation, including detailed assemblies, technical drawings, motion files, and other critical design artifacts. System Integration: Develop and manage complex vehicle environments, focusing on the seamless integration of complete systems and their interfaces to ensure holistic vehicle functionality. Validation & Problem Solving: Participate in the development of test steps and validation plans to ensure hardware meets all requirements, and apply problem-solving methodologies (e.g., root cause analysis, failure mode analysis) to address and resolve technical issues. Continuous Learning: Actively engage in continuous learning and professional development, embracing new technologies, methodologies, and best practices in hardware engineering and automotive product development.