Principal Mechanical Engineer – DFSS & DFM

Visteon is a global automotive technology leader, advancing mobility through innovative technology solutions that enable a software-defined future. The company's state-of-the-art product portfolio merges digital cockpit innovations, advanced displays, AI-enhanced software solutions, and integrated EV architecture solutions. With expertise spanning passenger vehicles, commercial transportation, and two-wheelers, Visteon partners with global automakers to create safer, cleaner, and more connected journeys. Founded in 2000, the company employs 10,000 employees in 18 countries around the globe. In 2024, Visteon recorded annual sales of approximately $3.87 billion and secured $6.1 billion in new business. To know more about us,visit visteon.com.

Mission of the Role

We are looking for a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead Design for Six Sigma (DFSS), Design for Manufacturing (DFM), and Design for Reliability (DfR) across global automotive product development programs. This role will drive robust design practices, manufacturing excellence, preventive quality, and engineering capability building while partnering with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and Program teams worldwide

Key Year One Deliverables:

• Integrate DFSS into the product development process.
• Establish global DFM guidelines and reliability review practices.
• Deliver at least two high-impact DFSS improvement projects with measurable business results.
• Build internal DFSS capability and sustainable governance for future growth.
• Change Leadership
• Executive Communication & Influencing Skills

Key Objectives of this Role:

• Lead deployment of DFSS, DFM, and reliability engineering methodologies across product development programs.
• Establish engineering standards, governance, and best practices for robust design and product quality.
• Drive design risk management through DFMEA, reliability assessments, and statistical engineering methods.
• Improve manufacturability, product robustness, validation success, and launch quality.
• Mentor engineering teams and support organizational capability growth in DFSS and DFM.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives that improve quality, reliability, cost, and customer satisfaction.
• Data-driven analyst, neutral root cause facilitator, and discussion moderator.

Qualification, Experience and Skills:

Required

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Mechatronics, or related discipline.
• 10+ years of automotive product development experience.
• 5+ years leading DFSS, DFM, Design Quality, Reliability, or Robust Design initiatives.
• Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
• Strong experience with DFMEA, DOE, tolerance analysis, reliability engineering, product validation, and statistical analysis.
• Proven experience leading cross-functional engineering programs.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively use AI in day-to-day work.

Preferred

• Master Black Belt certification.
• Experience with automotive electronics, cockpit electronics, displays, or mechatronic systems.
• Knowledge of IATF 16949, APQP, PPAP, and VDA standards.
• Proficiency with Minitab, JMP, or similar statistical tools.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Technical Leadership
• Design for Six Sigma (DFSS)
• Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
• Design for Reliability (DfR)
• Statistical Engineering & DOE
• Systems Thinking
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Continuous Improvement

Key Behaviors:

• Problem Solving: Ability to evaluate complex technical and organizational challenges and identify practical solutions.
• Critical Thinking: Strong analytical mindset with the ability to investigate issues, assess risks, and make informed decisions.
• Collaboration: Builds trusted relationships and effectively works across functions, regions, and cultures.
• Communication: Clearly conveys information and aligns stakeholders toward common objectives.
• Resilience: Adapts effectively to changing priorities and demonstrates perseverance in demanding situations.

Reporting Structure: PD-ME and Delivery Global Structure

Location: Sofia, Bulgaria

In the fast lane of technology. At Visteon, we’re redefining how the world connects through its vehicles. Our innovations transform the driving experience for millions, powered by a high-performance culture that challenges the status quo and sparks new possibilities—in careers and communities. Join us and help shape the future.