Electronic Systems Development (ESD) Director
Date: Feb 20, 2026
Location: Ann Arbor, MI, US, 48198
Company: Hyundai Motor Company
Electronic Systems Development (ESD) Director
Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is seeking an Electronic Systems Development Director to lead advanced vehicle system design across electronic, infotainment, and autonomous domains. This role will guide the development of next‑generation electronic architectures, drive innovation initiatives, and champion electronics quality for Hyundai vehicles in the North American market.
In this role, you will spearhead cost‑saving initiatives, lead engineering staff at all levels, and deliver clear, strategic reporting to company leadership and key regulatory organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Association (IIHSA).
You will also ensure seamless system integration across hardware, software, and vehicle platforms—collaborating with multiple cross‑functional teams to deliver high‑performing, safe, and innovative technologies that align with Hyundai’s global objectives and regulatory requirements.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
- Develop and support the Electronic Systems Development Department’s vision, mission, annual work plan, and budget. Establish goals and performance expectations for all direct reports in alignment with short‑, mid‑, and long‑term organizational plans. Assign tasks and project roles consistent with North American development responsibilities.
- Oversee and direct Managers and Engineers responsible for automotive electronic engineering, including design issue resolution, market adaptability analysis, and early‑stage concept creation. Lead the development of innovative technologies, support Hyundai Motor Group field quality objectives, advance cost‑reduction initiatives, and drive creation of long‑term technology roadmaps.
- Conduct comprehensive design reviews to evaluate component and system integrity, assess countermeasure proposals, generate solutions for open issues, align implementation schedules, and monitor execution progress.
- Review technical and operational projects with engineering staff. Establish risk assessments and risk mitigation strategies to meet timing milestones. Ensure continuous progress against work plans and maintain high quality of output. Provide strong technical direction and strategic engineering guidance.
- Support Hyundai Motor Company with engineering studies, competitive benchmarking, and North American customer‑focused research.
- Publish regular Electronic Systems Development Reports detailing weekly accomplishments and upcoming activities.
- Create technical reports and executive‑level presentations for Hyundai & Kia business leadership, Korea R&D, manufacturing teams, and external regulatory organizations such as NHTSA.
- Oversee and manage development activities for infotainment, autonomous systems, and electronics—including navigation, connectivity, validation, cybersecurity, electrical design, mobile applications, servers/cloud integration, driver assistance features, autonomous driving systems, automated parking technologies, and related domains.
- Participate in weekly briefings with HATCI Executive Management to align on strategic direction and project priorities.
- Collaborate with departments such as Vehicle Evaluation, Regulation & Certification, and Product Planning by supporting testing activities, design feedback, vehicle clinics, and cross‑functional initiatives.
- Build and strengthen collaboration models across Electronic, Infotainment, and Autonomous teams, promoting shared toolchains, engineering alignment, and cross‑domain innovation.
- Assist in planning, forecasting, and monitoring the department budget.
- Perform administrative responsibilities including purchasing requests, timesheet approvals, vacation and travel requests, and other operational tasks.
- Perform additional projects and strategic assignments as required.
- Travel domestically and internationally as needed.
WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE
- Educational Requirements:
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- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field required.
- Master’s degree preferred.
- Related Industry Experience Requirements:
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- 8 years of engineering management experience.
- 10 years of experience in design and release of electronic structures and components, including demonstrated ability to solve complex engineering problems.
- 5 years of software development experience.
- Experience developing software architecture for multi‑control, cross‑functional systems.
- Experience with wired and wireless communication development.
- Experience with cloud services, connected vehicle systems, API ecosystems, and cybersecurity implementations.
- Experience delivering scalable, reliable, and secure software‑centric solutions.
- Experience leading production-level ADAS and autonomous driving systems.
- Required Skills and Knowledge:
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- Working knowledge of programming languages and embedded operating systems.
- Understanding of embedded OS–based architecture, application operation, and system‑level integration.
- Knowledge of server development, maintenance, and cloud‑based service interactions.
- Experience with ADAS/AD system development, including perception, sensor fusion, control algorithms, and machine learning frameworks.
- Understanding of high‑performance compute platforms, real‑time systems, and autonomous software validation tools.
- Analog/digital circuit design and analysis skills including SoC platforms, power controls, integrated circuits, and linear/non‑linear components.
- Valid Driver’s License and satisfactory driving record.
WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU
- Zero-dollar employee premiums on Medical, dental, and vision for you and your family
- 100% employer-paid disability and Life insurance
- Generous paid Time Off including vacation, sick, and abundant holidays
- A Global Environment that fosters diversity
- Competitive Salaries
- Retirement savings and planning benefits
- Flexible work hours, and hybrid work schedule options
- Access to Health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts
OTHER DETAILS
Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is an Equal Opportunity Employer included Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.
Nearest Major Market: Ann Arbor
Nearest Secondary Market: Detroit