Staff Functional Safety Engineer at Ford Motor Company

About Ford

Ford Motor Company stands as a global leader in the automotive industry, pioneering electric vehicles, autonomous driving technology, and sustainable mobility solutions. With a legacy spanning over 120 years, Ford continues to innovate, delivering iconic vehicles like the F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E. Headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, Ford employs tens of thousands worldwide, fostering a culture of excellence, diversity, and forward-thinking engineering. As we accelerate toward an all-electric future, roles like Staff Functional Safety Engineer are pivotal in ensuring our advanced systems meet the highest safety standards.

Role Overview

The Staff Functional Safety Engineer at Ford is a senior-level position critical to the development of next-generation electronic control systems. You will spearhead the functional safety efforts for complex features, ensuring compliance with ISO 26262 across the entire product lifecycle. This role demands a fusion of hardware expertise, systems thinking, and leadership to architect safe, reliable automotive technologies. Based in the United States, this full-time opportunity offers a platform to influence Ford's safety roadmap and contribute to groundbreaking mobility solutions.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Lead the end-to-end functional safety lifecycle, from initial concept through production and beyond.
• Define and optimize safety architectures for electronic control units and systems.
• Steer cross-functional technical design decisions to embed safety from the ground up.
• Perform quantitative risk assessments, including HAZOP, FMEA, and FTA analyses.
• Champion a robust safety culture, mentoring engineers and collaborating with hardware, software, and validation teams.
• Implement fail-operational strategies to enhance system resilience in autonomous and ADAS applications.
• Ensure program readiness through rigorous verification, validation, and certification processes.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education & Experience

A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline is required. You bring 8+ years of hands-on experience in functional safety engineering, preferably in automotive OEMs or Tier 1 suppliers. Proven track record with ISO 26262 Parts 2-9, especially ASIL C/D projects, is essential.

Technical Skills

Expertise in hardware safety mechanisms, system partitioning, and diagnostic coverage metrics. Proficiency with tools like Medini Analyze, PTC Integrity, or similar for safety analysis. Strong knowledge of AUTOSAR, MISRA, and embedded systems development.

Soft Skills & Leadership

Exceptional analytical rigor combined with architectural vision. Leadership presence to influence multi-disciplinary teams and drive safety initiatives. Excellent communication skills for presenting to stakeholders and regulators.

Benefits & Perks

Ford offers an industry-leading compensation package tailored for top talent:

• Competitive base salary estimated at $140,000 - $200,000 annually, plus performance incentives.
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and wellness programs.
• 401(k) with generous company match and immediate vesting.
• Paid parental leave, adoption assistance, and flexible work arrangements.
• Employee discounts on Ford vehicles and exclusive perks.
• Tuition reimbursement and access to LinkedIn Learning for continuous growth.

Career Growth

At Ford, your career trajectory is limitless. As a Staff Functional Safety Engineer, you'll engage in high-impact projects shaping the future of safe autonomous driving. Ford's robust development programs, mentorship opportunities, and global rotations propel engineers toward principal and director-level roles. Join a company investing billions in EV and AV technologies, where your expertise directly accelerates innovation.

Why Join Us

Ford is more than an automaker; it's a mobility powerhouse committed to safety, sustainability, and ingenuity. Work on cutting-edge technologies that save lives and transform transportation. Our inclusive culture values diverse perspectives, offering collaboration with world-class engineers. With a focus on work-life balance and employee well-being, Ford empowers you to thrive professionally and personally. Be part of the team redefining automotive safety standards.

Role FAQs

What is the experience level required?

This staff-level role seeks candidates with 8+ years in functional safety, ideally in automotive applications.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Ford offers competitive relocation packages for eligible positions to support your transition.

What tools and standards will I work with?

Primarily ISO 26262, with tools for HARA, DFA, and safety case development.

How does Ford support professional certification?

We encourage and fund certifications like CFSE or TUV Functional Safety Professional.

Is this role remote-friendly?

Hybrid options are available, depending on team and location needs.

Ready to drive safety innovation at Ford? Apply today and secure the future of mobility.