Thermal System DRE

The Thermal Systems Design Release Engineer (DRE) is responsible for the design, development, validation, and release of thermal management components and subsystems for vehicle programs. This includes cooling modules, HVAC systems, refrigerant circuits, battery thermal systems, pumps, valves, heat exchangers, lines, and related hardware. The DRE ensures that all components meet OEM performance, durability, cost, quality, manufacturing, and timing requirements from program kickoff through Job 1 and lifecycle support.

Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following:

Thermal Component & Subsystem Ownership

Serve as the engineering owner (“single point of responsibility”) for assigned thermal hardware within an OEM vehicle platform.

Translate program-level vehicle thermal targets into component specifications and technical requirements.

Maintain system compatibility with vehicle-level architecture, controls, electrical interfaces, and packaging constraints.

OEM Design & Release Execution

Create and maintain CAD models, 2D drawings, specifications, and engineering documents in the PLM system.

Drive part number creation, BOM updates, and engineering releases through all OEM gateway milestones.

Lead design reviews with cross-functional OEM engineering teams.

Supplier and Sourcing Interface

Act as the primary technical lead for supplier interactions, communicating requirements and performance expectations.

Review and approve supplier DFMEAs, DV plans, drawings, and material selections.

Support sourcing activities with Purchasing and track tooling, PPAP, and launch readiness.

Validation & Vehicle Build Support

Develop and execute DVP&R for thermal components.

Support prototype, mule, VFF, and production build phases at facilities.

Resolve issues identified during thermal testing, weather trips, and wind tunnel evaluations.

Quality, Manufacturing, & Launch Readiness

Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering to ensure designs meet plant requirements.

Support PFMEA, control plan reviews, and PPAP documentation.

Address launch issues such as leaks, NVH, restricted flow, and supplier non-conformances.

Location & Travel Expectations:

This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Novi, Michigan.

This role requires 4-5 days per week in the office, with regular in-person meetings and events.

Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time.

We expect all Scout employees to have integrity, curiosity, resourcefulness, and strive to exhibit a positive attitude, as well as a growth mindset. You’ll be comfortable with change and flexible in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You’ll take a collaborative approach to achieve ambitious goals. Here's what else you'll bring:

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field.

4 years’ experience in automotive thermal systems.

Strong understanding of heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and thermal system behavior.

Proficiency with OEM CAD and PLM systems.

Ability to lead component design in a complex OEM environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with EV thermal architectures and advanced cooling systems.

Familiarity with APQP, PPAP, DFMEA, and DVP&R.

Knowledge of heat exchanger, pump, valve, and hose manufacturing processes.

Strong supplier management and launch experience.

The benefits of joining Scout include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up. This is a chance to create something new and lasting – with an iconic brand at its foundation. In addition, Scout provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Program specifics are detailed in company policies and employee benefit guides, select highlights:

Competitive insurance including:

Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans

401(k) program with:

An employer match and immediate vesting

Generous Paid Time Off including:

20 days planned PTO, as accrued

40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually

Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders

Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

This is a full-time, exempt position eligible to receive a base salary and to participate in an annual performance bonus program. Final salary offered will be determined based on factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills and experience. The annual performance bonus program is preset and not candidate dependent.

Initial base salary range = $110,000.00 - $135,000.00

Internal leveling code: IC9

Notice to applicants:

To be considered for career opportunities at Scout Motors, applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

Residing in San Francisco: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Residing in Los Angeles: Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

Residing in New York City: This role is not eligible for remote work in New York City.

Equal Opportunity

Scout Motors is committed to employing a diverse workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, or any other characteristics protected by law. Scout Motors is committed to compliance with all applicable fair employment practice laws. If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, or a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact [email protected].