Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – 25 million children twice a day – making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 25,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses sold. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. For more information on Blue Bird's complete product and service portfolio, visit www.blue-bird.com.
JOB SUMMARY
Reporting to the Manager, EV Design Engineering, the Senior Design Engineer, Mechanical, EV will lead the development and refinement of innovative mechanical design solutions for electric vehicle platforms. You will utilize advanced CAD software to create complex models and drawings, oversee prototype development, and lead formal design reviews. This position offers an excellent opportunity to drive critical vehicle programs, mentor junior engineers, and advance your technical career in a supportive and dynamic environment.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead the end-to-end design, development, and mechanical integration of EV powertrain architectures, battery systems, and related components.
- Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers and designers to optimize detailed models and engineering drawings.
- Conduct complex engineering research and data analysis to drive critical architecture choices and project milestones.
- Own the definition and implementation of comprehensive mechanical system and component specifications, including manufacturing, validation, and test documentation.
- Ensure strict product compliance by interpreting and applying FMVSS, State, ADA, and customer requirements across all design releases.
- Prepare and deliver executive-level technical documentation, engineering reports, and program presentations.
- Facilitate and drive design reviews, establishing engineering best practices while delivering constructive, high-level troubleshooting and technical feedback.
- Evaluate and introduce emerging industry trends, advanced materials, structural bonding methods (e.g., structural adhesives), and efficient manufacturing processes.
- Lead cross-functional initiatives with Powertrain, Electrical, Manufacturing, Quality, and Purchasing teams to secure design feasibility and high-quality manufacturability.
- Manage project priorities and assignments to completion, overseeing external engineering service providers or specialized supplier activities when required.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES FOR SUCCESS
- Strong technical leadership capability with a proven track record of managing complex engineering projects independently to completion.
- Advanced analytical and structural problem-solving skills (e.g., Root Cause Analysis, 8D methodologies).
- Exceptional written and oral technical communication skills, with the ability to translate complex engineering logic for executive leadership and stakeholders.
- Expert proficiency in advanced engineering software and tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, MATLAB, or relevant CAE/PLM suites).
- Deep understanding of medium/heavy-duty vehicle architectures, body-on-chassis platforms, and low- or zero-emission powertrain constraints.
- Demonstrated ability to make rational, high-discernment decisions under pressure regarding component selection and downstream manufacturing impacts.
BASIC EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
- Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university
- 5+ years of progressive mechanical design engineering experience within an automotive, bus, or heavy-duty vehicle manufacturing (OEM) environment.
- 3+ years of direct hands-on experience specializing in EV powertrain integration, high-voltage battery packaging, or alternative propulsion platforms.
- All candidates must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
WE VALUE
- Ability to anticipate and understand customer needs and provide guidance
- Excellent interpersonal and customer relationship skills to handle difficult and sensitive matters.
- Strong project management skills. Exposure to difficult or complex projects a plus.
- Ability to influence stakeholders
- Effective communication and ability to communicate complex details in a clear manner.
- Flexible workspaces and work hours that help you unleash the best you.
- Working in a collaborative team and balancing the needs of individual stakeholders while delivering corporate objectives.
INCLUDES
- Continued Professional Development
- Benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 14 paid holidays, vacation time and 401k with match
*The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
Blue Bird® is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. We strive to have the best available talent in every job based on the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities each person brings. Blue Bird is committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to all persons involved in Company operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination in all forms.
Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire.
#LI-Onsite
Qualifications Education Required Bachelors or better. Experience Required Direct hands-on experience specializing in EV powertrain integration, high-voltage battery packaging, or alternative propulsion platforms. Progressive mechanical design engineering experience within an automotive, bus, or heavy-duty vehicle manufacturing (OEM) environment Equal Opportunity EmployerThis employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
Skills Required
- Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university
- 5+ years of progressive mechanical design engineering experience in automotive, bus, or heavy-duty vehicle manufacturing within an OEM environment
- 3+ years of hands-on experience specializing in EV powertrain integration, high-voltage battery packaging, or alternative propulsion platforms
- U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status
- Advanced proficiency with engineering software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, MATLAB, or relevant CAE/PLM suites
- Experience with medium- and heavy-duty vehicle architectures and body-on-chassis platforms
- Strong technical leadership and ability to independently manage complex engineering projects
Blue Bird Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Blue Bird and has not been reviewed or approved by Blue Bird.
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Pay Growth & Progression — The 2024 collective bargaining agreement delivered meaningful wage increases for covered hourly employees, with larger boosts at the lowest pay bands. Subsequent contractual provisions point to a structurally improved earnings path for many production roles.
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Strong & Reliable Incentives — Overtime availability and profit sharing lift overall earnings potential, particularly in production settings. The contract formalized profit sharing and added financial provisions that enhance variable pay.
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Retirement Support — A 401(k) with Roth option and an employer match is offered, and the union agreement introduced a defined‑contribution retirement plan for covered workers. Company materials indicate employer contributions are part of the total rewards package.
Blue Bird Insights
What We Do
About Us Blue Bird offers a complete line of Type A, C and D school buses in a variety of options and configurations. Since 1927, Blue Bird Corporation has continued to set industry standards with its innovative design and manufacturing capabilities. Additionally, Blue Bird provides comprehensive financial solutions through Blue Bird Capital Services. Today, Blue Bird has more than 1,600 employees, Georgia-based manufacturing facilities and an extensive network of Dealers and Parts & Service facilities throughout North America. Its global presence can be seen in more than 60 countries through sales into Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe and the Middle East. Our Promise We are singularly focused on building and selling school buses that customers want and value. The safety of schoolchildren is at the center of all that we do and we will strive every day, just as we have since our beginning in 1927, to provide an unparalleled and affordable product in terms of safety, quality, durability, and serviceability. We will be easy to do business with, responsive to our customers' wants and needs, and provide prompt after-sale support in parts and service through a professional, high-qualified distribution network. Customer satisfaction is our top priority. What We Stand For We come to work every day with one common goal, to design, build, sell and service the world's finest school bus. That's what we do - no distractions, no competing priorities. We are heirs to a rich legacy, one of listening to our customers, embracing their needs, and delivering innovations that lead the market. We commit ourselves to four driving priorities - safety, quality, durability, and serviceability. We embody the interests of every child that rides us, every driver that drives us, every service technician that services us and every district that buys us. More than a business, this work is our heritage, and we have been at it since 1927 - that's purpose driven.
