Sr. Wheels & Tires Engineer

Sr. Wheels & Tires Engineer

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. (HATCI) is searching for a Senior Engineer for the Chassis Engineering Team II

The Team:

The Chassis Engineering Team II would oversee the design, development, and release efforts of the following disciplines: chassis mounts, vehicle braking systems, and vehicle driveline systems

The Position:

The Sr. Wheel & Tire Systems Engineer would be a technical expert and key leader in the design, development, and validation of wheel and tire assemblies for U.S. pickup trucks and off-road vehicles from concept to production release. This role focuses on delivering robust wheel and tire solutions – including specialty off-road tire systems (beadlock wheels, mud-terrain tires, run-flat technologies) and integrated TPMS/tire pressure management – that meet stringent performance, safety, and durability requirements.

What You Will Do:

• Design & Development: Lead the engineering of wheel and tire systems from concept through production; use CATIA V5 to create 3D models and 2D drawings of wheels, tire/rim interfaces, and integration of TPMS sensors; ensure designs meet all performance targets and integrate seamlessly with braking and suspension systems
• Specialty Off-Road Systems: Develop and implement specialized off-road tire technologies such as beadlock wheel systems (for low-pressure off-road use), mud-terrain and all-terrain tire packages, run-flat tire inserts, and central tire inflation / TPMS solutions; work with suppliers to customize systems for vehicle applications
• Validation & Testing: Define test plans and criteria for durability, fatigue, impact, and off-road abuse testing of wheels and tires; support vehicle-level testing for ride and handling on various terrains; analyze test data and failure modes and iterate designs to meet safety and performance standards
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all wheel and tire systems comply with relevant regulations and industry standards, which includes adherence to FMVSS for wheels/tires and TPMS, as well as SAE and other applicable standards for tire sizing, load ratings, and performance
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate closely with engineering teams to integrate wheel/tire systems without issues (e.g. brake caliper clearance, suspension travel, fender clearance); coordinate with manufacturing and service teams to ensure the wheel and tire designs are feasible to produce, assemble, and service (including spare tire and jack/tool provisions)
• Supplier Coordination: Act as the technical liaison with OEM and Tier 1 suppliers for wheels and tires; develop specifications and requirements for supplier-designed components (custom tire compounds, wheel castings/forgings) and manage supplier deliverables; lead design reviews with suppliers and resolve technical issues in development or production (e.g. tire uniformity problems, wheel finishing issues, etc) 
• Project Leadership: Manage wheel and tire subsystem projects on new vehicle programs; track progress of design and testing milestones, and ensure on-time delivery of components for prototype builds and production; conduct design reviews, DFMEAs, and DVP&R for wheel/tire systems; provide regular status updates to program management and proactively address any risks or roadblocks.
• Mentorship and Technical Guidance: Provide leadership within the chassis engineering team by mentoring junior engineers and sharing expertise in wheel & tire engineering; demonstrate a willingness to continuously learn and be trained in new methods or technologies
• Travel up to 20% of the time, both domestically and internationally

What You Will Bring to the Role:

• Basic Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, automotive, or a related field of engineering
• 8-10 years of experience in chassis and suspension design, with a focus on Wheel & Tire systems
• Proficiency with 3D modeling, assemblies, and 2D drawing generation via CATIA V5
• Strong understanding of GD&T and tolerance stack-ups in wheel hubs and rim interfaces
• In-dept knowledge of relevant FMVSS regulations and SAE standards related to wheels and tires 
• Strong understanding of vehicle ride and handling dynamics, especially how tire construction, tread, and wheel size influence ride comfort, steering response, and off-road traction
• Experience with ride tuning, alignment specifications, and chassis setup for off-road or heavy-duty applications
• Knowledge of durability testing procedures for rough road, pothole, and off-road endurance
• Experience with CAD data management and revision control
• Demonstrated ability to interpret test data, perform data-driven design decisions, and apply engineering analysis
• Flexibility with program and process changes, as Hyundai/Kia/Genesis is willing to make late changes to satisfy customer needs
• Good written, oral, interpersonal, and leadership skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft programs, such as Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word
• Excellent time management, self-management, and organization skills
• Ability to remain current with new technologies and best practices
• Willingness to attend training, workshops, or conferences to enhance skills
• Ability to diagnose and resolve complex, section-related issues 
• Valid Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record

• Preferred Qualifications:
• Master's degree in mechanical, automotive, or a related field of engineering
• Experience working on electric or hybrid vehicle suspension systems
• Knowledge of the Wheel & Tire systems, durability, set up, articulation, etc of pickup trucks, SUVs, or off-road vehicles
• Experience with CAE analysis (FEA of wheels, tire modeling) and interpreting results to guide design
• Experience performing advanced suspension modeling, simulations, and optimization via CAE tools (e.g., ANSYS, Nastran, MATLAB/Simulink, etc.)
• In-depth understanding of vehicle ride & handling, off-road performance, and NVH considerations specific to heavy-duty trucks and SUVs
• Knowledge of solid axle and independent suspension systems in off-road conditions
• Familiarity with CATIA V6 and PDM (i.e., ENOVIA V6) or Windchill PLM systems
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or Six Sigma certification

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
• Hybrid Work Schedule
• Competitive Salaries
• A Global Environment that Fosters Diversity
• Retirement Savings and Planning Benefits
• Access to Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts 
• Flexible Work Hours

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.
  • HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.