Engineer, EDS Connector and Components Design Responsible Engineer (DRE)

Imagine being at the forefront of an automotive revolution, designing the very components that power the next generation of electric adventure vehicles. In this role, you will have the unique opportunity to shape the electrical architecture of groundbreaking electric pick-up trucks and rugged SUVs from the ground up. Partnering with Aquent, a leader in talent solutions, our client is building an iconic brand that blends heritage with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. As a key member of the engineering team, your work will directly impact the reliability, safety, and performance of these highly anticipated vehicles, bringing sustainable adventure to life.

About the Opportunity

Aquent has partnered with a pioneering automotive company that is redefining the electric vehicle landscape. This organization is dedicated to creating high-performance, rugged electric SUVs and pick-up trucks designed for the modern adventurer. By joining this collaborative and high-energy team, you will contribute to a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and excellence, working alongside industry experts to deliver world-class sustainable mobility solutions.

The Role and Your Impact

We are seeking a talented and driven engineer to take ownership of the design, development, and release of unique low-voltage and high-voltage connector and terminal designs, as well as critical electrical distribution system (EDS) components. In this highly collaborative role, you will bridge the gap between concept and production, working closely with purchasing, finance, and top-tier global suppliers. Your expertise will ensure that every connector, terminal, shield, and power distribution component meets rigorous safety, quality, and performance standards, ultimately defining the electrical backbone of these revolutionary vehicles.

What You'll Do

• Lead the design and development of unique low-voltage and high-voltage connector and terminal designs for electrical components and wire harness mating parts from concept through production launch.
• Support the design of other critical EDS components, including shields, troughs, and power distribution systems.
• Develop technical specifications and collaborate with purchasing and finance partners to support the quoting and sourcing process for unique components.
• Establish and maintain a standard library of core EDS components aligned with global automotive group standards to streamline wiring and power distribution designs.
• Collaborate with Tier 1 suppliers and global component owners to define, validate, and release all assigned EDS connectors and components.
• Partner with suppliers to design robust electrical design verification and validation plans, performing virtual and physical testing to resolve issues prior to program milestones.
• Ensure all designs conform to strict safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Stay attuned to consumer experience trends and proactively propose system improvements.
• Contribute engineering expertise to the design of production facilities to ensure seamless manufacturing integration.
• Manage supplier resources efficiently to deliver component designs that meet cost, timing, and quality targets.

What You'll Bring (Required)

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 5 to 20 years of experience (with opportunities available for both mid-level and senior-level engineers) in the design, release, and testing of electrical connectors, terminals, wire harnesses, and/or power distribution components.
• Proven track record in automotive product development, covering all phases from initial design through testing and launch.
• Strong technical expertise in wire harness component design and release, utilizing a structured, data-driven approach (such as Six Sigma) to engineering design and problem-solving.
• Familiarity or direct experience with Catia and computer-aided engineering (CAE) tools.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build strong working relationships across all organizational levels.
• A collaborative mindset, adaptability in a fast-paced, high-growth environment, and a passion for continuous learning.

Nice-to-Have Qualifications

• Experience working as an Electrical Distribution System (EDS) Design Responsible Engineer (DRE) for an automotive OEM or Tier 1 supplier.