Senior Advanced Development Engineer

Are you interested in being part of an innovative company with a family oriented culture? Rausch and Pausch LP (RAPA) is hiring in Auburn, AL! We are looking for a Senior Advanced Development Engineer. The ideal candidate will have product design experience, strong analytical and problem solving skills, and the ability to multi-task, preferably in an automotive manufacturing setting. RAPA offers the following benefits: Primary & Secondary medical coverage Supplemental Insurance coverage Dental coverage 401-K with a company match Paid time off 11 Paid Holidays per year Potential Bonus opportunities Company paid benefits , including: Vision insurance, Life Insurance, and Disability coverage Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities: This position is responsible for both: 1) design and development of potential future product offerings or "next generation" improvements to existing products, and 2) working closely with potential customers to translate their needs into initial design concepts, ensuring both external customer specifications and internal design requirements are met. Lead the technical design for assigned Technology Projects by: creating 3D CAD models; 2D drawings using GD and completing simulation studies as needed. Build and validate prototypes, including: creation of BOM; coordination with prototype suppliers; assembly of prototypes; and development of test plan and related lab orders. In some cases, Advanced Development Engineer may personally complete prototype build and lab tests. Perform competitor benchmarking studies including: functional testing, lifetime testing, tear downs; and cost estimation; and summarize findings in technical report. Collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders throughout the design process (i.e., Process Development; Series Development; Lab; Purchasing; Sales; Management; etc.). Serve in a project leadership role, managing assigned Technology Projects according to the RAPA Project Handbook and the RAPA Technology Project Protocol. At the conclusion of Technology Projects, provide technical support to ensure product's smooth transition to Series Development by coordinating with assigned Series Development Engineer. Support overall product success by assisting Series Development, as needed. Represent RAPA professionally to external customers on assigned projects while negotiating: technical specifications; timing of deliverables; and resource requirements. Provide mentorship, coaching, and training to other RAPA personnel in your areas of expertise. Maintain product and company reputation by complying with federal and state regulations. Other duties as assigned. Skills, Education and Experience Successful candidates must: possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills; be proactive in addressing roadblocks; demonstrate natural curiosity; find motivation in solving open-ended challenges; enjoy taking ownership of projects; demonstrate exceptional accountability; and relentlessly pursue creative solutions. A minimum of five years of product engineering/design experience in an automotive manufacturing environment (preferably pneumatic suspension systems) and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or relevant engineering field are required. An advanced degree (Master's or Doctorate) in a relevant engineering field will be considered in lieu of experience. Experience using computer-aided design (CAD) is required. CREO preferred. Technical/mechanical aptitude with mechatronics experience and advanced knowledge of technical drawings, GD&T, tolerance stacks. Experience in Design for Manufacturability is required. Experience in design for injection molded parts is highly preferred. Experience with simulation software for structure, system, magnetic circuit, or CFD is preferred. Ability to function in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and handle multiple projects and assignments with proficiency. Ability to travel as required up to 10%.