Lead Engineer - Materials Technology

Responsibilities & Key Deliverables

As the Lead Engineer - Materials Technology, you will play a pivotal role in leading and managing the development and optimization of soft trim materials such as fabrics, leather, and leatherette specifically tailored for automotive applications. Your key responsibilities will encompass:

• Overseeing project deliverables related to soft trim product development, ensuring all targets are met within scope, schedule, and quality standards.
• Utilizing failure mode and root cause analysis methodologies to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve material-related issues effectively.
• Conducting detailed color matching and haptic evaluations to ensure aesthetic and tactile requirements are fulfilled for premium customer experience.
• Applying value analysis and value engineering principles to optimize material cost-performance balance and support sustainable product innovation.
• Utilizing product development frameworks including DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and DVP (Design Verification Plan) to guide robust product design and validation.
• Selecting raw and processed materials aligned with stringent engineering specifications and regulatory standards.
• Employing advanced statistical tools to define material specifications accurately, evaluate supplier quality, and conduct comprehensive supplier audits to maintain high standards.
• Leading the conceptualization and implementation of novel soft material technologies, driving innovation aligned with automotive industry trends and customer demands.
• Leveraging expertise in polymeric part design to create integrated material solutions enhancing product performance and durability.
• Proficient use of industry-standard CAD software such as CATIA and UGNX to collaborate effectively with design and engineering teams.
• Conducting competitive benchmarking to assess market offerings and identify opportunities for material enhancements.

You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including design, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain to ensure seamless integration of materials into vehicle programs. Your role will be critical in maintaining Mahindra & Mahindra’s leadership in innovative automotive material solutions.

Experience

The ideal candidate brings approximately 8 to 10 years of relevant experience in materials technology, specifically within automotive or related industries. The preferred experience includes:

• Comprehensive expertise in selecting and validating soft trim materials, including fabrics, leather, and synthetic alternatives compatible with automotive manufacturing processes.
• Strong understanding of materials science principles, part manufacturing techniques, and vehicle assembly processes that impact material performance and quality.
• Proven track record in material and component validation through rigorous testing and failure analysis to ensure durability and compliance with automotive standards.
• Experience working with advanced composite materials and innovative technologies to improve product attributes such as weight reduction, cost efficiency, and sustainability.
• Demonstrable knowledge in developing and specifying soft trim material standards that meet or exceed industry benchmarks.

Your experience should demonstrate the ability to independently drive complex projects, effectively evaluate material suppliers and partners, and contribute strategically to the company's material technology roadmap.

Industry Preferred

Preferred industry backgrounds for candidates include:

• Automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), where familiarity with automotive design, manufacturing requirements, and quality standards is foundational.
• Companies specializing in the production and development of fabrics, leather, and leatherette materials tailored for automotive interiors and trim components.

Experience within these industries will enable candidates to bring valuable insights and best practices to Mahindra & Mahindra’s product development initiatives, facilitating alignment with market needs and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

Educational qualifications required for this role are:

• A Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) or Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) degree in Polymer Technology, Textile Technology, or an equivalent discipline focused on material sciences.

Additional certifications or advanced training in materials engineering, automotive materials, or product development methodologies will be considered advantageous and contribute to demonstrated expertise.

General Requirements

The General Requirements for succeeding in this role include:

• Excellent communication skills: Ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly to diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Professional attitude: Demonstrating a proactive, positive approach with a willingness to engage collaboratively in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment.
• Analytical aptitude: Strong problem-solving skills with an interest and aptitude for automotive materials science and engineering.
• Team orientation: Capability to work harmoniously within cross-functional teams, contributing to shared goals with a customer-centric mindset.
• Self-motivation and initiative: Taking ownership of projects, anticipating challenges, and driving continuous improvement without the need for constant supervision.

These attributes will ensure you thrive in Mahindra & Mahindra’s innovative and challenging environment while delivering value to automotive product development.

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