Senior Systems Engineer

American Axle & Mfg., Inc.
United States, Michigan, Detroit
May 03, 2025
At AAM, the POWER is in our people. We believe that an equitable and inclusive workplace benefits everyone, and that the diversity of our Associates drives creativity and innovation. Our global team is made of dreamers, doers and innovators who are Delivering POWER for a safer, brighter and more sustainable tomorrow. Job Posting Title Senior Systems Engineer Job Description Summary AAM is searching for a Senior Systems Engineer to join our team. This position will be based out of our Detroit Business Offices location in Detroit, MI. As a Senior Systems Engineer, you will lead the definition, integration, and validation of complex vehicle subsystems across powertrain, controls, and mechatronics domains. You'll collaborate with various teams to develop system architectures, ensure alignment with performance and cost targets, and drive technical execution throughout the product lifecycle. The ideal candidate will bring experience in transmission, gearbox, axle, or electric propulsion systems. Key expertise in thermal management and lubrication of electric axles and electric drive units would be highly valued and an asset to the team. Job Description If you meet most of the criteria and believe your experience can contribute to AAM, we encourage you to apply. You don't need to possess experience in every single duty listed below-we know great talent comes in many forms! Define system-level performance requirements, architecture, and interfaces for subsystems such as eMachine, EE hardware, gearbox, software, controls, actuation mechanisms, clutch, and differential. Support system packaging, sizing analyses, and use of design tools to select major subsystem components, including motors, gear ratios, gear reduction mechanisms, and sensors. Use CAE tools and methods to own the design of systems, subsystems, and components. Collaborate with CAE teams to perform FEA, data analysis, and tolerance stack-up evaluations. Develop engineering documentation including DFMEA, DFM/DFA, and GD&T dimensioning schemes. Collaborate with subsystem and component engineering teams and services to release final designs and drawings. Lead and support development testing activities, including characterization, calibration, and evaluation of limit samples. Create detailed test orders and specifications; coordinate with cross-functional teams to implement testing plans. Apply structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., Ishikawa diagrams, 8D, DOE) to resolve engineering challenges. Coordinate with internal, external, multi-functional, and global partners to develop and validate system components. Drive the development and adoption of efficient processes, tools, and methods for subsystem design and integration, focusing on continuous improvement. Support cost estimation efforts to meet BOM targets and analyze cost drivers associated with design changes. Schedule, facilitate, and lead system-level peer reviews and weekly project status meetings throughout the development lifecycle. Support financial planning by estimating engineering resource requirements, budgeting, tracking variances, and initiating corrective actions. Lead change management efforts, maintain the risk registry, and manage engineering incident reports. Required Skills and Education Bachelor's degree in engineering or similar field. 5+ years of experience in product design and development; with a focus on transmission/gearbox, axle, or electric propulsion in transportation. About AAM: As a leading global Tier 1 Automotive and Mobility Supplier, AAM designs, engineers and manufactures Driveline and Metal Forming technologies to support electric, hybrid and internal combustion vehicles. Headquartered in Detroit with over 80 facilities in 18 countries, we are Bringing the Future Faster for a safer and more sustainable tomorrow. To learn more, visit AAM.com. Why Join #TeamAAM: As a member of #TeamAAM, you'll get to make a difference on day one. From your first day with us, you'll have the opportunity to grow, embrace challenges, build your skills, and bring your authentic self to work every day, all while helping to shape the future of mobility for AAM...and the world. AAM will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. AAM will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that Associates are treated equally during employment, without regard to their age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. For the Disabled Job Seeker: We offer reasonable accommodations for qualified disabled individuals who are applicants for employment. To request assistance or accommodations, please e-mail TalentAcquisition@aam.com. AAM is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.