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Principal Engineer - Vehicle Accessories

Principal Engineer - Vehicle Accessories

Slate AutoTroy, MI, US
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Job Description

Job Description

Principal Project Engineer – Vehicle Accessories

ABOUT SLATE

At Slate, we're building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We are pushing the boundaries of radical personalization - blending functionality, aesthetic integration, and high quality at price points for all customer wallets. As a Lead Engineer, you'll serve as a technical cornerstone for the Accessories Engineering team. You'll own critical projects while also mentoring and guiding peers across categories such as interior, exterior, cargo, utility, and lifestyle products. This is a 'player-coach' role—ideal for someone who thrives both as an individual contributor and as a technical leader.

WHAT YOU GET TO DO

  • Drive end-to-end technical execution for vehicle accessory products across multiple categories (interior, exterior, cargo, utility, etc.) and drive portfolio level readiness
  • Act as a technical lead on cross-functional programs : concept development, CAD, testing, integration, and launch
  • Mentor and support a small team of project engineers by reviewing designs, providing feedback, unblocking progress
  • Serve as the point person for high-complexity systems or first-of-kind accessory innovations
  • Lead supplier engagement for technical reviews, validation planning, DFM / DFA, and launch execution
  • Establish best practices for design reviews, CAD standards, release process, and documentation quality
  • Own advanced CAD development in CATIA and data management via Windchill
  • Ensure compliance with FMVSS, SAE, ISO, and company-specific performance standards across all programs
  • Support strategic decision-making for tooling investments, prototyping pathways, and technology roadmaps
  • Represent accessories engineering in functional lead discussions about product direction, risk, and readiness

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM

  • BS in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field; MS or advanced credentials a plus
  • 15+ years in vehicle accessory engineering or related product development roles
  • Cross-functional experience spanning multiple categories : interior systems, structural hardware, utility gear, etc. Automotive or Powersports backgrounds are a plus.
  • Expert CAD user with mastery in CATIA (V5 or V6); Windchill PLM experience required
  • Proven leadership in fast-paced or startup environments—ability to mentor and motivate without formal organizational reporting structures.
  • Strong understanding of material properties (plastics, metals, textiles), joining techniques, and validation methods
  • Hands-on experience with DVP&R, DFMEA, prototype evaluations, and supplier readiness
  • Deep working knowledge of FMVSS, SAE, ASTM, and ISO standards applicable to accessories
  • Clear communicator who can operate from factory floor to executive strategy sessions
  • Strong organizational and documentation habits; able to lead by example

    • WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE?

    We're fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. Slate's start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness moves our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.

  • Safety First
  • Delight Customers
  • One Team
  • Relentless Improvement
  • Fast, Frugal and Scrappy
  • Respectful Collaboration
  • Positive Legacy

    • Location : Troy, MI

    WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE :

  • Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.
  • Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at recar- talent_acquisition@slate.auto.

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    Principal Engineer • Troy, MI, US