Structural Engineer

Job Title: Body Structures Engineer

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Job Location: Logansport, IN

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Role Overview:

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We are seeking an experienced Body Structures Engineer to support next-generation vehicle programs with a strong focus on metal and plastic body structure systems. This role owns structural design from concept through prototype, validation, and production launch, with hands-on involvement across engineering and manufacturing teams.

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This is a high-impact position contributing directly to new vehicle development and platform standardization initiatives.

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Key Responsibilities:

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• Design and develop vehicle body and floor structures using CAD, supporting concept development, prototyping, and production release.
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• Create early-stage design concepts, mock-ups, and feasibility studies.
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• Lead and support prototype builds, design verification (DV), and process verification (PV) phases.
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• Plan and coordinate design, procurement, assembly, and validation activities aligned with Stage Gate / APQP milestones.
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• Ensure designs meet quality, cost, manufacturability, and performance requirements; recommend cost-effective alternatives when applicable.
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• Support platform standardization and commonization of structural components.
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• Collaborate on fixture and tooling design for prototype and production environments.
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• Conduct design reviews and work cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Quality, Sales, and Program teams.
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• Support assembly plant launch and production ramp-up activities as required.
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Required Skills & Expertise:

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• Strong experience in vehicle body structure design (sheet metal & plastics)
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• Hands-on knowledge of fabrication and joining processes (ARC welding, RSW, structural joining methods)
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• Proficiency in structural engineering tools and methodologies:
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• FEA, DFA/DFM, DOE
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• DFMEA / PFMEA, DVP&R
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• GD&T and tolerance stack-ups
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• Knowledge of material selection for steel, aluminum, and plastics.
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• Familiarity with FMVSS and automotive safety/regulatory standards.
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• Ability to analyze issues and develop practical, production-ready solutions.
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• Strong communication skills and ability to work in fast-paced program environments.
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Tools & Systems:

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• CAD: Autodesk Inventor
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• PLM: Teamcenter
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• Standard engineering documentation tools (MS Office)
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Qualifications:

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• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a related field.
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• 5+ years of experience in automotive body structures or vehicle structural design.
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• Experience supporting prototype builds and production/assembly launches preferred.
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• Strong background in steel and aluminum structural design and manufacturing processes.
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