Manager – Chassis and Suspension Systems

The Manager – Chassis and Suspension Systems is responsible for leading the design, development, validation, and integration of chassis and suspension subsystems for vehicle platforms. This role requires deep technical expertise in suspension kinematics, ride and handling, and system-level integration, while also providing leadership to a team of design and development engineers. The manager will coordinate closely with vehicle dynamics, packaging, manufacturing, and supplier teams to deliver high-performance, safe, and cost-effective solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Technical Leadership

• Oversee design and development of chassis components such as control arms, knuckles, bushings, subframes, stabilizer bars, and linkages.

• Guide suspension architecture decisions (e.g., MacPherson, multi-link, air suspension) based on vehicle performance targets.

• Review and approve kinematic and compliance (K&C) studies, CAE analysis, and system packaging.

2. Project & Team Management

• Lead a cross-functional team of engineers responsible for chassis and suspension design and integration.

• Manage task allocation, technical reviews, mentorship, and performance evaluations.

• Ensure timely delivery of engineering milestones, prototypes, validation, and design releases.

3. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with vehicle dynamics, manufacturing, body structures, NVH, and powertrain teams to ensure complete system integration.

• Coordinate with suppliers for component development, validation, PPAP, and manufacturing readiness.

• Support packaging studies and vehicle integration with CAD and simulation teams.

4. Validation & Launch Support

• Define DVP&R plans and oversee component and system-level testing (durability, performance, noise, ride).

• Resolve design and production issues during prototype builds, vehicle testing, and launch phases.

5. Quality, Cost, and Compliance

• Ensure components meet all performance, durability, cost, weight, and regulatory targets.

• Drive cost optimization through material selection, manufacturing processes, and design simplification.

• Ensure adherence to safety and global compliance standards.

Key Focus Areas:

• Chassis Architecture & Subsystem Design
  (Suspension systems, subframes, steering knuckles, mounts)

• Suspension Geometry & Kinematics
  (Ride & handling optimization, K&C analysis)

• Vehicle Dynamics & Integration
  (Working closely with dynamics, NVH, and controls)

• Manufacturing & Assembly Alignment
  (DFM, tooling readiness, supplier engagement)

• Testing & Validation Oversight
  (DVP&R planning, bench testing, proving ground support)

• Team Leadership & Technical Reviews
  (Mentorship, code/design reviews, system documentation)

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering.

• 10+ years of experience in chassis and suspension systems design, with at least 3 years in a technical management or leadership role.

• Strong understanding of suspension kinematics, vehicle dynamics, and CAE tools.

• Experience with CAD systems (CATIA, NX), PLM tools, and tolerance stack-up analysis.

• Strong communication, problem-solving, and project management skills.

Preferred Experience:

• Background in automotive OEM or Tier-1 supplier environment

• Knowledge of advanced materials (aluminum, composites) and modular chassis designs

• Familiarity with ADAS impact on chassis integration

• Experience with electric vehicle platforms and air suspension systems