Off-Road Traction Manager

Off-Road Traction Manager

Purpose/ Summary: 

• Manage the off-road and traction performance development for all North American Market Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles
• The multidisciplinary group is focused on longitudinal traction performance development through AWD & PE system calibration and on developing & validating hardware required to achieve the off-road performance target established for each vehicle program in North America.
• The group’s main function of testing, calibrating, and developing the off-road and traction performance of HMG vehicles aligns with our corporate goal of delivering the best vehicles for the North American customer through regional technical leadership and global collaboration.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Responsibilities: A bulleted list of essential responsibilities for the role

• Manage the off-road and traction performance development group involved in the testing, development, and calibration of vehicle integrated off-road and AWD performance in all weather, road, and terrain conditions in North America:
• • Off-Road performance integration and optimization
  • Traction performance related hardware and software performance development
  • AWD and driveline hardware and software performance development
  • BEV multi motor PE traction performance development
  • Off-road related hardware specification development and validation: Protection/Safety/Suspension/Tire/Brake/Body & Structure

• Establish development directions, performance targets, and hardware specification requirements.
• Provide technical guidance on software calibration for the development of off-road and traction performance.
• Enhance North America market development guidelines for vehicle level integrated off-road performance and for each individual sub-system
• Manage customer feedback research through J.D. Power IQS, Consumer Reports, and social media to identify areas for improvement.
• Set up the group’s goals & objectives aligned with the corporate direction and facilitate the accomplishment of all objectives.
• Plan and manage engineering resources include budget, human resources, test vehicles, etc. to successfully accomplish all engineering tasks and complete all development projects.
• Continuously improve the group's testing resources, capabilities, and procedures.  Mentor direct reports.
• Manage vehicle test events including proving ground tests, off-road venue tests, and cross-functional seasonal tests (hot/cold).
• Lead the investigation of industry trend through benchmarking of competitors' vehicles and off-road & AWD technologies.
• Facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing throughout the division and with counterparts in R&D Headquarters in Korea.
• Collaborate with Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis North America Regional Headquarters in pre & post-production activities to enhance market competitiveness and brand value.
• Manage the creation and presentation of clear & concise project status and technical reports.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE

Educational Requirements:

Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related field of study

Related Experience Requirements:

• 10+ years of relevant engineering experience in the automotive industry
• 5+ years of demonstrated experience in vehicle dynamics, controls, off-road, and traction performance development
• 3+ years of experience managing engineers and leading Off-Road and AWD performance development

Required Skills and Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics, control systems, and AWD system performance development
• Excellent computer skills and experience in in-vehicle off-road performance measurement
• Experience in root cause analysis and problem-solving methods
• Excellent written communication and presentation skills
• Flexibility in handling multiple projects and changing priorities
• Proficient with Microsoft Office - Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams

Any Additional Certifications Required:

• Valid Driver's License and satisfactory driving record
• Documented professional off-road vehicle driving experience

WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU

• Zero dollar employee premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for you and your family
• 100% employer-paid disability and life insurance
• Generous paid time off including vacation, sick and abundant holidays
• A global environment that fosters diversity
• Competitive salaries
  • Compensation Range: $145,000~$175,000
• Retirement savings and planning benefits
• Flexible work hours
• Access to health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts
• Up to 20% travel (domestic and international)

OTHER DETAILS

Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is an Equal Opportunity Employer included Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.