Manager, Seat Comfort Engineering
Manager, Seat Comfort Engineering
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Salary Not Disclosed
1 Vacancy
Job Description
We are the movers of the world and the makers of the future. We get up every day roll up our sleeves and build a better world -- together. At Ford were all a part of something bigger than ourselves. Are you ready to change the way the world moves
Product Development uses design thinking & user experience methods to deliver breakthrough products and services that delight our customers. We bring innovative exciting and sustainable ideas to life. We have opportunities around the world for you to contribute to advancements in autonomy electrification smart mobility technologies and more!
In this position...
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Manager Seat Comfort Engineering to lead our efforts in designing and delivering world-class seat comfort experiences across our vehicle this critical role you will be responsible for defining the future of seat comfort at Ford from foundational research to production implementation. You will lead a talented team collaborate cross-functionally and partner with key suppliers to ensure our seats provide unparalleled comfort support and luxury for our customers.
Responsibilities
What youll do...
- Strategic Leadership & Data-Driven Decisions:
- Develop and champion a comprehensive long-term strategy for seat comfort integrating customer insights ergonomic principles biomechanical data and market trends.
- Utilize advanced analytics objective metrics and subjective evaluations to make data-driven decisions that enhance seat comfort performance and perceived quality.
- Define key performance indicators (KPIs) for seat comfort and establish robust methodologies for measurement and continuous improvement.
- Benchmark competitor offerings and identify opportunities for Ford to differentiate through superior comfort solutions.
- Technology & Innovation Integration:
- Drive the identification evaluation and incorporation of new and emerging technologies in seat design materials and comfort features (e.g. advanced foams smart textiles adaptive support systems integrated sensors).
- Lead research and development initiatives to explore novel approaches to seat comfort collaborating with internal research teams and external academic/industry partners.
- Translate innovative concepts into feasible and manufacturable solutions that meet Fords quality cost and timing targets.
- Supplier Development & Management:
- Cultivate strong relationships with current and potential seat and component suppliers fostering innovation and ensuring alignment with Fords strategic goals.
- Drive supplier capability development ensuring they meet rigorous technical quality and production standards for seat comfort components and systems.
- Collaborate on joint development programs with suppliers to bring next-generation comfort solutions to market efficiently.
- Quality & Continuous Improvement:
- Establish and oversee robust processes for quality assurance throughout the seat development lifecycle from concept to launch and beyond.
- Implement continuous improvement initiatives based on field data warranty analysis customer feedback and internal testing to address comfort-related issues and proactively enhance product quality.
- Lead root cause analysis and problem-solving efforts for complex comfort challenges driving effective and sustainable solutions.
- Component Management & Integration:
- Oversee the engineering integration and performance of critical seat comfort components and systems including but not limited to:
- Multi-Contour Seat (MCS) systems (massage bolster adjustments)
- Heating and Ventilation (HVAC) systems integrated into seats
- Power and manual adjusters
- Lumbar support systems
- Head restraints and armrests
- Seat structures foams and trim covers as they relate to comfort.
- Ensure seamless integration of these components with the overall vehicle architecture and HMI (Human-Machine Interface).
- Oversee the engineering integration and performance of critical seat comfort components and systems including but not limited to:
- Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Lead mentor and develop a team of highly skilled engineers fostering a culture of innovation collaboration and continuous learning.
- Collaborate extensively with design ergonomics vehicle dynamics manufacturing purchasing and marketing teams to ensure holistic vehicle comfort and customer satisfaction.
- Represent Seat Comfort Engineering in various program reviews technical forums and leadership discussions.
Qualifications
Youll have...
Bachelors degree in Engineering (Mechanical Materials Industrial or related field).
5 years of experience in automotive seat engineering or a closely related field with a focus on comfort ergonomics or human factors.
2 years of experience in a leadership or project management role.
Even better you may have...
Masters degree or Ph.D. in Engineering Ergonomics Human Factors or a related discipline.
Strong understanding of seat components and systems (e.g. foams trim structures mechanisms MCS heat/vent).
Experience with objective and subjective comfort assessment methodologies and tools.
Proficiency in CAD software (e.g. CATIA) and CAE tools (e.g. FEA) related to seat design and analysis.
Proven track record of driving innovation and implementing new technologies in a production environment.
Excellent communication interpersonal and presentation skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
Experience with global product development and working with international teams.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a data-driven mindset.
You may not check every box or your experience may look a little different from what weve outlined but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company we encourage you to apply!
As an established global company we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe or keep you close to home Will your career be a deep dive into what you love or a series of new teams and new skills Will you be a leader a changemaker a technical expert a culture builderor all of the above No matter what you choose we offer a work life that works for you including:
Immediate medical dental vision and prescription drug coverage
Flexible family care days paid parental leave new parent ramp-up programs subsidized back-up childcare and more
Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement fertility treatments and more
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service
A generous schedule of paid holidays including the week between Christmas and New Years Day
Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.
For more information on salary and benefits click here:
position is a range of salary grades LL5.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race religion color age sex national origin sexual orientation gender identity disability status or protected veteran the United States if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability please call 1-.
This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week.
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Required Experience:
Manager
Employment Type
Full-Time
