SRT / Direct Connection - Performance Chassis Engineer - Auburn Hills, MI

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The SRT / Direct Connection Performance Chassis Engineer is responsible for the design, development, validation, and release of high-performance chassis systems for SRT/Direct Connection production vehicles, Direct Connection performance parts, and motorsports applications. This role focuses on delivering world-class handling, durability, and vehicle dynamics that meet aggressive performance targets while supporting the brand's high-performance DNA.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead design, integration, and development of wheels, suspension, steering, subframes, bushings, kinematics, and compliance components for SRT and Direct Connection programs.
• Develop and refine chassis tuning parameters to achieve targets for handling, ride, NVH, and track performance.
• Support creation, validation and release of Direct Connection performance kits (Stage upgrades, suspension packages, drag/track solutions)

Vehicle Dynamics & Testing:

• Conduct objective and subjective vehicle dynamics testing (ride/handling, limit handling, drag launch, track endurance).
• Analyze test data (Kinematics & Compliance, telemetry, damper histograms, accelerometer data) and convert insights into actionable engineering changes.
• Support SRT/Direct Connection proving grounds testing, track events, and competitive benchmarking activities

Crash & Safety:

• Ensure compliance with regulatory testing & regulation for street product and Rules & Regulations specific to motorsports applications
• Simulation & Analysis
• Perform CAE studies, including FEA, multi-body dynamics, suspension optimization, and load case development.
• Work closely with CAE teams to ensure design robustness under high-performance load conditions

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Interface with Powertrain, Aero, Brakes, Body/Closures, Electronics, and Manufacturing teams to ensure full-vehicle integration.
• Support supplier design reviews, DFMEAs, DVP&R creation, and component release activities.
• Participate in SRT/Direct Connection development reviews, vehicle build support, and issue resolution meetings.
• Function as SME for licensed, affiliated, and 3rd party projects

Direct Connection Performance Parts Support:

• Engineer and validate aftermarket performance suspension components.
• Create technical specifications, install instructions, validation plans, and product release documentation.
• Support dealer training, tech-line escalation, and customer queries regarding chassis performance offerings

Program & Documentation Responsibilities:

• Develop test plans, DVP&Rs, and build work orders for mule and pre-production vehicles
• Own design releases (EBOM, CAD reviews, engineering change documentation)
• Ensure program deliverables meet timing, cost, performance, and quality targets

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering or related degree field
• 3 or more years of experience in chassis, vehicle dynamics, or performance engineering
• Proficiency with CAD (CATIA or NX), MBD tools, and CAE fundamentals
• Experience with vehicle testing, data acquisition systems, and performance tuning
• Strong understanding of suspension geometry, kinematics, materials, and durability
• Ability to support track testing, including occasional travel and weekend events

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Engineering
• Prior experience with performance or Motorsports vehicle development (drag, road course, autocross, endurance)
• Hands-on knowledge of high-performance chassis tuning (spring/damper tuning, alignment, bushings)
• Familiarity with Direct Connection, SRT platforms, or competitive benchmarking
• Experience with DRE responsibilities, release systems, and supplier management
• Familiarity with Mopar Engineering, Quality and Program Management processes

Full-time

At Stellantis, we assess candidates based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We welcome applications from all people without regard to sex, age, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any characteristic protected by law. We believe that diverse teams reflect our identity as a global company, enabling us to better address the evolving needs of our customers and care for our future.