Where is the Trim Engineer role at provide based?

This role is based in Detroit, MI.

How many years of experience does this Trim Engineer role require?

The posting calls for at least 3 years of relevant experience.

What polymers or materials does this Trim Engineer role work with?

vinyl, PU, leather, cloth, foam.

One of 4,388 polymer and materials roles on Crosslinked, each read for materials, degree, visa and salary. See roles like this

Trim Engineer

Q: What techniques or methods are required for this Trim Engineer role?

DV/PV testing, 8D root cause analysis.

provide · Detroit, MItoday

BS-level Product Development roles on Crosslinked list a median of $118k (202 that show pay). This posting does not list pay.

Design and develop automotive seat trim covers and foam interfaces from concept through launch

Apply

Foams · Product Development roles, by email

Apply

Worth knowing

Why it is interesting. Full ownership of trim from concept through launch, including material selection and trim-to-foam fit on major OEM seating programs.

Might not be for you. 6-month contract with no salary listed; heavy supplier and plant coordination rather than bench R&D.

Generalist BS acceptableSenior hires only Realistic requirements

Adjacent materials roleSelect and validate cover materials (cloth, leather, vinyl, PU, suede) and laminates (scrim, foam backing); trim-to-foam interface

Seniority: Mid-level
Work: On-site
Type: Contract
Degree: BS
Experience: 3+ yrs
Industry: Automotive
Role: Product Development

Materials

vinyl1 role PU1 role leather7 rolesclothfoam33 rolessuede

Techniques

DV/PV testing8D root cause analysis3 rolespressure mappingseat comfort testing

Role details

This 6-month contract Trim Engineer will own seat trim cover design and development for foam-and-trim seating programs, collaborating with foam, frame and product engineering teams to deliver trim that meets OEM comfort, quality and durability requirements. You will drive trim from concept through prototype, validation and launch support.

Key Responsibilities

Design and develop seat trim covers (cushion, back, bolster, head restraint, armrest) to OEM specifications

Define trim attachment methods: hog rings, J-clips, listing wires, hook-and-loop, adhesive and trench/tie-down features

Partner with foam engineering on trim-to-foam interface, trench design and surface definition to control wrinkles, gaps and fullness

Select and validate cover materials (cloth, leather, vinyl, PU, suede) and laminates (scrim, foam backing)

Support pattern development, sew-line definition and cut-sew feasibility with suppliers

Lead trim prototype builds, fit reviews and appearance approvals (craftsmanship, A-surface quality)

Resolve trim issues found in DV/PV testing, comfort evaluations and plant launch

Maintain trim BOMs, drawings, change notices and supplier communication

Support DFMEA, APQP/PPAP deliverables and root cause analysis (8D)

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience)

3+ years of automotive seat trim engineering experience at an OEM or Tier 1 supplier

Hands-on knowledge of trim cover construction, attachment methods and trim-to-foam fit

Working knowledge of cover materials, laminates and sewing processes

Ability to read and create drawings with GD&T

Familiarity with APQP, PPAP and DFMEA

Clear communicator comfortable with suppliers, plant teams and OEM customers

Preferred Skills

CATIA V5/3DEXPERIENCE, including surface and flattening/pattern tools

Experience with molded foam programs (head restraints, bolsters, armrests, integral skin)

Exposure to seat comfort testing, pressure mapping or craftsmanship evaluations

Experience with GM, Ford, Stellantis, Toyota or other major OEM seating programs

Program launch experience in a manufacturing environment