Automotive Engineer

Job Description: Ford (EV) - Vehicle System Triage Analyst Engineer - Dearborn MI What You’ll Do • Act as the primary triage point for advanced EV system issues across E/E architecture, HV propulsion, software/firmware, and safety domains • Reproduce and validate symptoms; assess field vs. lab data and evaluate safety implications • Gather and analyze system data including logs (CAN, Ethernet, serial), DTCs, BMS history, thermal trends, charging data, OTA history, and variant details • Design controlled reproduction steps and document assumptions, data windows, and limitations • Prioritize non-invasive diagnostics and define required tests, traces, and validation steps based on likelihood and risk • Perform structured root cause analysis using methodologies such as fault trees, 5 Whys, and 8D • Coordinate with cross-functional teams (hardware, software, powertrain, thermal, safety, cybersecurity) to drive issue resolution • Produce clear triage briefs, RCA summaries, and knowledge base documentation • Apply risk-based prioritization (likelihood x impact) to determine escalation paths • Recommend short-term mitigations (workarounds/config changes) and long-term fixes (design updates, patches, OTA improvements) • Maintain documentation, decision logs, and structured handoffs to downstream teams Required Skills & Experience • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Computer Science, or related field • 3+ years of hands-on experience in EV systems diagnostics or equivalent • Strong understanding of vehicle E/E architecture, domain controllers, and HV propulsion systems (battery, BMS, inverter, motor, thermal) • Experience with automotive networks (CAN/CAN-FD, LIN, Ethernet) and diagnostic/logging tools • Proven ability to perform structured root cause analysis (e.g., 5 Whys, fault trees, Ishikawa) • Familiarity with OTA update processes, software versioning, and fault/change management • Knowledge of ISO 26262 / ASIL concepts and basic automotive cybersecurity principles • Strong communication skills with the ability to deliver both executive summaries and technical documentation • Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, cross-functional engineering environments Nice to Have • Hands-on experience with advanced diagnostic tools and environments • Experience with HIL systems, bench/rig testing, lab equipment, or simulators • Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data analysis; experience with data visualization tools (Excel, Tableau, Power BI) • Familiarity with RCA documentation frameworks, templates, and reusable triage playbooks • Knowledge of EV charging standards (NACS/CCS), battery chemistries, and V2X concepts • Functional safety training or certification (ISO 26262 or equivalent) • Exposure to automotive cybersecurity practices • Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics • Experience working in OEM or tier-1 supplier environments Job Info: • Job Type: Contract to Hire • Location: Dearborn MI • Hourly Pay Range: $65.00-$75.00 • Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, 401K