Founded in 1946, HI-LEX is a leading supplier of window regulators, door modules, power lift gate systems, and mechanical control cables primarily serving the automotive industry, but also the power sports, marine, construction equipment, and medical device sectors. Headquartered in Takarazuka, Japan (near Osaka), and listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE), HI-LEX employs more than 12,000 associates across its global footprint.
In the Americas region, HI-LEX has grown steadily in the region, and now has ten (10) manufacturing facilities across the the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. In the U.S., HI-LEX operates under three divisions: HI-LEX America in Battle Creek, Michigan; HI-LEX Controls in Hudson, Litchfield, and Hazel Park, Michigan; and Daedong HI-LEX of America in Cusseta, Alabama. The company’s automotive center is in Rochester Hills, Michigan which consists of Finance, Sales, Engineering, Testing, Program Management, Human Resources, Purchasing and IT.
Website: HI-LEX.com
POSITION SUMMARY:
Designs and develops products and systems to meet or exceed customer requirements. The Product Engineer I designs and develops innovative products and systems, ensuring final designs and manufactured components consistently exceed internal quality standards and customer requirements. This involves analyzing specifications, performing simulations and tests, collaborating with cross-functional teams (including manufacturing, quality, and supply chain), and managing the product lifecycle from concept to mass production and continuous improvement. The role requires applying fundamental engineering principles and technical expertise to deliver high-quality, reliable, and cost-effective solutions.
KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Designs and develops products to meet or exceed customer requirements.
- Determines feasibility of new and modified components and assemblies using analytical engineering tools.
- Reviews and defines test methods based on customer and Hi-Lex specifications.
- Coordinates prototype builds and testing / validation for assigned products.
- Provides technical support to customers, Hi-Lex manufacturing, quality assurance, program management and sales.
- Works with 3D models, drawings and design studies.
- Identifies root cause and counter-measures for system failures and quality concerns.
- Actively supports and directs VA / VE and DFM activities.
- Prepares problem solving reports, DVP&R reports, etc.
- Promotes an associate relations environment that is consistent with long-term management objectives.
Qualifications
Education
- 4-year degree in mechanical engineering or engineering technology or equivalent field.
Functional Experience
- Knowledge of applicable Hi-Lex products and procedures.
- Knowledge of engineering practices (GD & T, DOE, FMEA, DFM, CAD applications, statistical analysis, etc.).
Industry Experience
- 0-2 years product engineering experience preferred.
Core Competencies
- Understanding of customer change and release systems.
- Provides support to Jr. Engineers, Designers and Technicians.
- Performs competitor benchmarking activity.
- Performs other duties as necessary.
- 5S support
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 20 pounds
Required Skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Other Requirements
- Office environment with noise from computer peripherals such as printers.
- Periodic factory visits with noise from manufacturing equipment.
- Periodic travel by air, car or train to other company operations, customers and/or suppliers.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or equivalent
- Knowledge of GD&T, DOE, FMEA, DFM, CAD applications, and statistical analysis
- 0-2 years product engineering experience
- Experience with 3D modeling, drawings and design studies
- Experience preparing problem solving reports and DVP&R
- Ability to lift up to 20 pounds
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Periodic travel to other company operations, customers and/or suppliers
- Support for 5S, VA/VE and DFM activities
What We Do
HI-LEX is a leading supplier of window regulators, door modules, and mechanical control cables for the automotive industry. The company specializes in the manufacture and sale of remote-controlling mechanical cables and accessories for vehicles, construction and industrial machinery, household and welfare appliances, medical equipment, and marine vessels. Its mission is to be a world-class automotive supplier by providing quality and cost-effective products on a global scale.
