Technical Specialist - Automotive Wheel Bearings

Position Overview

Technical Specialist – Automotive Wheel Bearings

Seniority Level:

Work Arrangement:

Travel:

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as senior technical lead for OEM customer programs with a focus on wheel bearing applications
• Act as the technical face of the organization to North American OEMs (GM, Ford, Stellantis)
• Develop and influence technical specifications for new and future applications
• Support and guide regional and global program development activities
• Define and execute long-term technical and product strategies for the wheel bearing portfolio
• Lead technical discussions, design reviews, validation planning, and issue resolution with customers and suppliers
• Analyze customer application data and perform detailed application calculations
• Translate customer requirements into internal actions across design, testing, manufacturing, materials, sealing, sensors, and prototyping
• Support new product introductions, reliability improvements, cost optimization, and efficiency initiatives
• Participate in technical brainstorming and innovation activities
• Generate and support intellectual property development
• Present technical concepts, products, and capabilities to customers and senior management
• Collaborate with global engineering teams in Europe and Asia (may include off-hours meetings)
• Engage with industry organizations and technical forums (e.g., SAE)
• Provide regular updates to senior leadership and establish quarterly and annual technical objectives
• Support plant activities and limited international travel as required

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience
• 10–15+ years of direct experience with automotive wheel bearing products
• Strong understanding of wheel-end, braking, and chassis systems
• Experience in automotive design, validation, failure analysis, and manufacturing processes
• Proven hands-on problem-solving capability in complex technical environments
• Experience working with major OEM procedures and Tier 1 suppliers
• Strong communication skills with customers, suppliers, and internal teams
• Comfortable working in global, multicultural engineering organizations
• GD&T
• DFMEA, DVP&R, APQP
• DFSS, DFA/DFM, VAVE
• Problem-solving methodologies: 8D, DMAIC, 5-Why, DRBFM, Shainin
• Industry standards: ISO, ANSI, ASME, ASTM

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters degree in Engineering or Business
• DFSS Black Belt certification
• Hands-on automotive experience (ASE certification or equivalent practical background)

Benefits & Perks

• 401(k) with 100% company match up to 4% (Traditional and Roth options)
• BCBS PPO medical coverage with low out-of-pocket cost for employee and family
• Generous paid time off and flexible sick time
• Mileage reimbursement or access to company pool vehicles for work travel