Engineering Support Specialist I

Description

The Engineering Support Specialist 1 is an entry-level role centered on technical writing, 3D laser scanning, and digital CAD support within an active automotive manufacturing shop environment. Exceptional technical writing skills are paramount: this position is primarily responsible for transforming complex mechanical designs into clear, visually detailed customer installation instructions, technical specifications, and standard operating procedures. Working under the Engineering Supervisor, the technician also captures OEM vehicle geometry via 3D laser scanning and prepares reference CAD models for Design Engineers.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Writing & Documentation

• Author, layout, and edit clear, step-by-step consumer-facing product installation instructions and technical guides.
• Photograph vehicle disassembly, component fitment, and finished installations in the shop bay to produce clear visual step-by-step guides.
• Create and maintain Technical Manufacturing documentation, packaging checklists, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Review and revise existing installation manuals based on Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) or customer feedback.
• Ensure uniform terminology, grammar, and brand formatting across all technical publications.

3D Laser Scanning & Reverse Engineering

• Operate 3D laser scanners and optical measuring hardware on OEM vehicle undercarriages, engine bays, and exhaust paths inside the manufacturing shop.
• Process raw point cloud and mesh data (cleaning, alignment, polygon reduction) using reverse engineering software.
• Build clean, accurate reference CAD models and space-claim assemblies for handoff to Design Engineers.
• Organize and archive digital vehicle scan files within the engineering database according to departmental naming conventions

Vehicle Intake & Inspection Support

• Perform initial vehicle intake evaluations, documenting factory clearances, mounting points, and OEM component weights.
• Read basic 2D engineering drawings and schematics to assist in verifying prototype dimensions against digital CAD      envelopes.
• Collaborate directly with Design Engineers and R&D Specialists to verify vehicle clearances during test fits.

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED required; trade school certificate or vocational drafting coursework, or associate’s degree is preferred, but not required.
• 0–2 years of experience; entry-level applicants with strong writing ability, attention to detail, and basic CAD familiarity are encouraged to apply.
• Passion for automotive performance, vehicle systems, or aftermarket components.

Technical Skills:

• Excellent technical writing, grammar, document layout, and proofreading skills.
• Familiarity or coursework exposure to 3D CAD modeling software (SolidWorks preferred).
• Basic understanding of or willingness to learn 3D laser scanning and reverse engineering software.
• Ability to interpret basic 2D engineering blueprints, schematics, and dimensioned drawings.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets), Microsoft Office, and Adobe Acrobat.

Soft Skills:

• Meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Clear, proactive written and verbal communication across engineering, shop, and production teams.
• Self-motivated learner with an eager interest in engineering workflows.

Physical Requirements:

• Time is split between an office/CAD workstation and an active automotive manufacturing shop floor.
• Comfortable working around vehicle lifts, running vehicles, and ambient shop noise.
• Ability to safely maneuver around vehicles on lifts to capture scanning data and photography.
• Ability to lift, carry, or position scanning hardware or boxed components up to 40–50 lbs.

Accountabilities:

Success in this role is measured by:

• Instruction Manual Quality: Delivery of clear, error-free, customer-ready installation guides completed on schedule prior to product launches.
• Scan Quality & Usability: Clean, accurately aligned scan files delivered on time to Design Engineers.
• Documentation Accuracy: Well-structured SOPs and technical release documentation requiring minimal revisions.

We believe in building better together. AWE welcomes applicants of all backgrounds and is a proud fair chance employer. We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and supported.