The Valve Engineering Manager – Engine Components leads the design, development, validation, and integration of engine valve systems including intake and exhaust valves, valve guides, seats, springs, locks, retainers, and associated actuation elements. The role ensures these components meet stringent requirements for thermal durability, performance, emissions, and manufacturability across various engine platforms.
This role requires strong expertise in valve materials, tribology, fatigue life analysis, dynamic behavior, and cross-functional collaboration with design, testing, manufacturing, and supplier quality teams.
Own the engineering development of intake and exhaust valve assemblies from concept to production.
Define performance specifications, material requirements (e.g., Nimonic, Inconel, hardened steels), and design tolerances.
Lead the selection and optimization of geometry (e.g., valve head, stem, and tip profiles) for airflow, strength, and durability.
Ensure valves are integrated seamlessly within the combustion chamber, valvetrain mechanisms, and head design.
Apply multi-body dynamics, thermal analysis, and fatigue analysis to optimize valve behavior under real-world conditions.
Collaborate with simulation and testing teams to predict valve motion, stress distribution, wear patterns, and contact loads.
Define and oversee DVP&R for valve components including high-cycle fatigue (HCF), thermal fatigue, wear, hot gas erosion, and tip pounding resistance.
Lead failure analysis and corrective actions using lab and teardown data.
Support durability and emissions testing for full engine programs.
Interface with global suppliers for design reviews, manufacturing process development (e.g., friction welding, nitriding), and PPAP.
Review production tooling, process controls, and quality assurance plans for valve manufacturing.
Evaluate cost, manufacturability, and sourcing feasibility for new valve technologies.
Lead a team of component engineers and analysts focused on engine valve technology.
Drive technical reviews, knowledge sharing, and adherence to engineering standards and quality systems.
Foster innovation in lightweight, low-friction, or alternative material valve solutions.
Engine Valve Design and Thermomechanical Analysis
Material Science and High-Temperature Durability
Dynamic Valve Behavior and Valvetrain Compatibility
Validation Testing and Root Cause Analysis
Supplier Collaboration and Design for Manufacturing
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
8–12+ years of experience in engine valve or valvetrain component design and development.
Proven track record of leading engine component projects through the product development lifecycle.
Proficiency in CAD (CATIA, NX), FEA tools (ANSYS, Abaqus), and valve simulation software (e.g., GT-VTD, AVL EXCITE).
Deep understanding of tribology, valve seat wear, and contact stress behavior.
Experience with high-performance, turbocharged, or emissions-compliant engine platforms.
Strong project management, communication, and team leadership capabilities.