Assembly Fasteners Engineer

Job description

We are looking for a Fasteners / Bolted Joint Engineer passionate about tightening physics and precision manufacturing. You will serve as the plant's ultimate technical authority for the design, validation, optimization, and monitoring of all threaded assembly joints, with a primary focus on safety-critical joints (Inverted Delta ∇: connecting rods, main bearings, cylinder head bolts, flywheel, and high-pressure fuel injectors).

Responsibilities

Critical Tightening Strategy and Parameters (∇)

Design, program, and optimize advanced tightening strategies (simple torque, torque-angle / torque-turn, and yield control) to ensure the required clamp load on major engine components.

Electronic Tightening Systems Management

Program, configure, and maintain process control over multi-spindle and handheld DC tightening systems (Atlas Copco Power Focus 4000/6000, Bosch Rexroth, or Desoutter).

Data Analysis and Traceability (Torque Curves)

Monitor torque vs. angle curves on specialized platforms (ToolsNet / QST) to detect trends in friction scatter, burrs, cross-threading, or stripped threads before they impact engine quality.

Tool Capability and Torque Auditing

Manage and audit tightening system capability ( $C_m / C_{mk} \ge 1.67$ ) and conduct correlation studies between inline dynamic torque and static/residual torque (joint relaxation effects and breakaway torque).

Floor Troubleshooting

Lead root cause analysis (8D, 5 Whys, fractographic analysis) for fastener failures occurring in assembly or test cells (Cold Test / Hot Test).

Change Management and Supplier Sign-Off

Validate engineering changes on fasteners (WERS / PTR) and approve PPAP submissions, coefficient of friction testing, and surface coatings (Geomet, phosphate, microencapsulation/threadlockers).

Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree with a Professional License (Cédula Profesional) in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Metallurgical, Materials, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field. 3 to 5+ years of proven experience as a Fastener, Bolted Joint, or Assembly Process Engineer in the automotive industry (prior experience in powertrain, transmissions, chassis, or high-demand mechanical assemblies is essential).

Language Proficiency

Advanced / Fluent English (B2+ to C1). You must be able to lead seamless technical discussions with product design teams (Powertrain D&R in Dearborn) as well as international tooling and fastener suppliers.