Our client, a major automotive manufacturer, is looking to add a Special Test Engineer to their team in Kokomo, IN

This contract opportunity (possible extension or direct hire for the right candidate) offers a starting pay rate of $44.50hour (benefits are available).

About the Role:

Our client is seeking a proactive and skilled Resident Engineer to join their team, reporting directly to the Resident Engineering Lead at the plant. In this role, you will lead efforts to address reactive machine and design challenges, leveraging advanced problem-solving techniques and engineering expertise to mitigate risks and resolve production and quality system deficiencies. You will oversee project deliverables throughout the lifecycle to ensure the product meets or exceeds customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead teams in identifying risks/hazards in product designs, processes, and applications, applying lessons learned, and generating FMEAs and Control Plans.


• Own and maintain control plans, ensuring they meet quality standards.


• Apply advanced problem-solving skills to address engineering, timing, and financial variances, proposing and communicating mitigation strategies.


• Coordinate special builds (PER) and change notices (CN), gaining manufacturing and quality team alignment while minimizing plant impact.


• Conduct CN/PER risk assessments and provide actionable insights.


• Utilize quality and customer safety (QCS) tools to ensure preventive and proactive quality measures.


• Serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) in root cause analysis, corrective actions, and supplier quality defect management.


• Develop and maintain repair procedures, including non-standard and rework instructions.


• Interpret engineering designs and standards to assess risks and author temporary substitution approvals (TSAs).


• Support torque auditing processes, functional audits, and adherence to Corporate Quality objectives.


• Provide direction on dyno failures, QC containments, traceability requirements, and corrective actions.


• Approve and oversee quality control procedures and employee practices.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.


• Minimum of 3 years of experience in quality, manufacturing, or design/release engineering.


• Valid driver’s license.


• Ability to work 100% onsite.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree in a relevant field.


• Knowledge of World Class Manufacturing (WCM).


• Experience in the design, testing, manufacture, or assembly of powertrains and related components.


• Process Sign-Off and GD&T expertise.


• Greenbelt or Blackbelt certification.


• Bilingual in English and Spanish (verbal and written).


• Proven leadership in delivering product changes and launches on time.


• Strong coaching, teaching, and communication skills.


• Experience in Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and corrective actions.


• Ability to thrive in a high-pressure environment with multiple priorities.

Why Join Us?

As a Resident Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in driving quality, innovation, and operational excellence in a dynamic manufacturing environment. Your expertise will ensure our products exceed customer expectations while maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance.

Apply Today!

If you are a results-driven engineer with a passion for quality and problem-solving, we encourage you to apply. Join us and make a lasting impact!

Send your resume to rlenhart@xfiregroup.com