Exterior Lighting Engineer at Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, MI

About Ford

Ford Motor Company stands as a cornerstone of the global automotive industry, pioneering electric vehicles, autonomous driving technology, and sustainable mobility solutions. Headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, Ford employs over 170,000 people worldwide, driving innovation that shapes the future of transportation. From the iconic F-150 to cutting-edge EVs like the Mustang Mach-E, Ford's commitment to excellence has defined generations. As an Exterior Lighting Engineer, you'll contribute to this legacy, enhancing vehicle safety and aesthetics through advanced lighting systems.

Role Overview

The Exterior Lighting Engineer position at Ford in Dearborn, MI, is a dynamic role at the intersection of mechanical, electrical, software, and optics engineering. This full-time opportunity involves guiding exterior lighting products from concept to production across the vehicle's lifecycle. You'll lead cross-functional teams, including lighting suppliers, optics experts, software developers, studio designers, purchasing, manufacturing, and quality assurance professionals. This role demands technical expertise, leadership acumen, and a passion for automotive innovation, offering a chance to impact millions of vehicles on the road.

Why Exterior Lighting Matters at Ford

Exterior lighting is critical for vehicle safety, regulatory compliance, and brand identity. Ford's engineers develop adaptive headlights, dynamic taillights, and energy-efficient LED systems that meet stringent standards like SAE and FMVSS. Your work will enhance visibility, reduce glare, and integrate seamlessly with Ford's advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Key Responsibilities

In this pivotal role, you'll drive the end-to-end development of exterior lighting solutions. Core responsibilities include:

• Defining technical requirements for headlights, taillights, turn signals, and other exterior lighting components.
• Designing products integrating mechanical structures, electrical circuits, embedded software, and optical systems.
• Overseeing tooling design, prototyping, and validation testing to ensure durability, performance, and reliability.
• Leading launches in Ford's assembly plants, coordinating with manufacturing teams for seamless integration.
• Fostering collaboration across suppliers, studio, purchasing, manufacturing, and quality functions to resolve issues and meet timelines.

Expect to use tools like CATIA for CAD modeling, MATLAB/Simulink for simulations, and optics software for light distribution analysis.

Qualifications & Requirements

Ford seeks top talent with a blend of technical prowess and leadership skills. Essential qualifications include:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field; Master's preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in automotive exterior lighting design, optics, or related areas.
• Strong knowledge of automotive standards (SAE, ECE, FMVSS) and lighting technologies (LED, laser, adaptive systems).
• Proven track record leading cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in engineering software, testing methodologies, and manufacturing processes.

Ideal candidates thrive in collaborative settings, possess excellent problem-solving skills, and stay ahead of industry trends like electrification and smart lighting.

Benefits & Perks

Ford offers a premium compensation package designed for work-life balance and long-term success:

• Competitive salary estimated at $110,000 - $160,000 annually, based on experience and market rates.
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and wellness programs.
• 401(k) with generous company match and employee stock purchase plans.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and flexible work arrangements.
• Tuition assistance, leadership training, and access to Ford's state-of-the-art labs.

Additional perks include onsite fitness centers, EV charging stations, and employee discounts on Ford vehicles.

Career Growth

At Ford, your career accelerates with structured development paths. Exterior Lighting Engineers advance to senior roles, chief engineering positions, or leadership in EV/autonomous programs. Ford University provides ongoing training in emerging technologies like LiDAR integration and software-defined vehicles. Many alumni lead global teams or transition to executive roles, supported by mentorship and global mobility opportunities.

Professional Development Opportunities

Participate in cross-disciplinary projects, industry conferences, and Ford's Innovation Blueprint program, fostering skills in AI-driven design and sustainable materials.

Why Join Us

Join Ford to work on transformative projects that redefine mobility. In Dearborn, MI, you'll collaborate with world-class talent in a vibrant engineering hub near Ford's historic Rouge Complex. Enjoy Michigan's four seasons, proximity to Detroit's cultural scene, and a supportive community. Ford's inclusive culture values diversity, innovation, and employee well-being, with a focus on sustainability goals like carbon neutrality by 2050. This role offers stability, impact, and the chance to engineer the vehicles of tomorrow.

Role FAQs

What experience level is required?

Mid-to-senior level with 5+ years in automotive lighting or optics.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Yes, Ford offers relocation support for eligible candidates.

What tools will I use daily?

CAD software (CATIA), optics simulation tools, MATLAB, and PLM systems like Teamcenter.

Is this a hybrid role?

Primarily onsite in Dearborn with flexible hybrid options based on business needs.

How does Ford support work-life balance?

Through generous PTO, wellness programs, and employee assistance resources.

Apply now to illuminate your career at Ford Motor Company. Shape the future of automotive lighting and drive innovation forward.