Foundation Brake Engineer at Ford Motor Company in Livonia, MI

About Ford

Ford Motor Company is a global automotive leader with over 120 years of innovation, driving the future of mobility. Headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, Ford designs, manufactures, and services trucks, SUVs, commercial vehicles, and electrified vehicles worldwide. As a Foundation Brake Engineer in Livonia, MI, you'll contribute to Ford's commitment to safety, performance, and sustainability in our industry-leading vehicles. Ford's engineering teams pioneer advanced braking technologies that power icons like the F-150 and Mustang Mach-E.

Role Overview

The Foundation Brake Engineer role at Ford in Livonia, MI, is pivotal in developing core braking systems that ensure vehicle safety and reliability. You'll work on the mechanical components of drum and disc brakes, optimizing for weight, durability, and performance. This full-time position offers hands-on engineering in a cutting-edge facility, collaborating with experts on next-generation Ford vehicles. Ideal for mechanical engineers passionate about automotive safety and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

As a Foundation Brake Engineer, your daily impact includes:

• Designing foundation brake calipers, rotors, drums, and linings using CAD tools like CATIA or NX.
• Conducting finite element analysis (FEA) and simulations to predict thermal, structural, and NVH performance.
• Leading brake system testing on dynamometers, vehicles, and labs to validate FMVSS and SAE standards.
• Analyzing failure modes and performing root cause investigations using tools like DFMEA and 8D.
• Integrating brake designs with vehicle dynamics teams for optimal ABS and ESC compatibility.
• Supporting supplier development and quality assurance for brake components.

Qualifications & Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or equivalent.
• 3-5 years of experience in foundation brake design or related automotive engineering.
• Strong proficiency in CAD, FEA (ANSYS or LS-DYNA), and MATLAB/Simulink.

Preferred Skills

• Master's degree or PE certification.
• Experience with electric vehicle braking systems or regenerative braking.
• Familiarity with automotive industry standards like ISO 26262 for functional safety.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in Agile teams.

No relocation assistance specified; local candidates in Livonia, MI preferred.

Benefits & Perks

Ford offers premium benefits to support your professional and personal life:

• Competitive salary estimated at $65,000-$95,000 USD annually, based on experience.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with low premiums.
• 401(k) with up to 6% company match and immediate vesting.
• Paid parental leave, adoption assistance, and flexible work options.
• Employee discounts on Ford vehicles and perks like gym memberships.
• Tuition reimbursement up to $10,000 annually for advanced degrees.

Career Growth

At Ford, your career accelerates. Foundation Brake Engineers advance to senior roles, lead programs, or transition to electrification and autonomy teams. Ford University provides training in emerging tech like ADAS and EV powertrains. Mentorship programs and global rotations foster leadership. Many engineers progress to management within 5 years, with clear paths to director-level positions.

Why Join Us

Join Ford in Livonia, MI, for unparalleled impact. Work on vehicles driven by millions, backed by a company investing $22 billion in U.S. manufacturing. Livonia's engineering hub offers state-of-the-art labs and proximity to Dearborn HQ. Enjoy Michigan's vibrant tech scene, affordable living, and outdoor recreation. Ford champions diversity, inclusion, and sustainability—be part of a team redefining transportation.

Role FAQs

What is the work schedule for this role?

Full-time, typically 40 hours/week with hybrid options post-onboarding.

Is experience with EV brakes required?

Preferred but not mandatory; training provided.

How does Ford support work-life balance?

Through flexible hours, remote work, and wellness programs.

What tools does the team use?

CAD (CATIA/NX), simulation (ANSYS), and PLM systems like Teamcenter.

Apply today to engineer the brakes powering tomorrow's Ford vehicles!