Search Jobs

 

Job Details

< Back to job list

       Design Manager

  •    Auburn Hills, MI

Job ID#: 3552

Category: Automotive

Position Type

Contractor (W-2)

Job Description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager - Paint Finishing Systems to lead the design and integration of industrial paint finishing facilities from concept through construction support. This role serves as the technical authority for pretreatment and E-coat systems, spray booths, curing ovens, emissions abatement systems, and related infrastructure.

The ideal candidate brings strong technical expertise, multidisciplinary coordination experience, and the ability to lead complex industrial design efforts while balancing performance, cost, schedule, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

Serve as the subject matter expert for paint finishing systems.

Lead design and oversight of:

Pretreatment and E-Coat lines

Manual and automated spray booths

Flash-off and curing ovens

Paint delivery, recovery, and waste systems

Emissions abatement systems

Review and approve layouts, P&IDs, general arrangements, and detailed design packages.

Concept & Front-End Engineering

Lead feasibility studies and front-end engineering (FEL/FEED) phases.

Develop process flow diagrams, equipment layouts, and capacity models.

Balance performance, cost, and long-term scalability.


Multidisciplinary Coordination


Coordinate with structural, mechanical, electrical, controls, and building teams.

Integrate structural steel, piping systems, ductwork, ventilation, and utilities.

Lead 3D model reviews and resolve design clashes.

Compliance & Safety

Ensure designs meet OSHA, NFPA, EPA, and local regulatory requirements.

Integrate fire protection, hazardous material handling, and environmental controls.

Support permitting and regulatory documentation.

Project & Construction Support

Support procurement through technical bid evaluations.

Provide clarification during construction and installation.

Participate in commissioning and startup activities.

Manage design revisions and change control.

Leadership

Mentor and guide design personnel.

Facilitate design reviews, risk assessments, and value engineering sessions.

Communicate technical decisions to stakeholders, contractors, and suppliers.


Job Requirements

Qualifications

Extensive experience designing industrial paint finishing systems.

Strong background in pretreatment and E-coat line design.

Proven experience coordinating structural steel, piping, ductwork, and facility systems.

Proficiency with engineering drawings, P&IDs, layouts, and 3D coordination models.

Strong leadership and cross-functional communication skills.


Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field preferred.

Equivalent industry experience considered.

10+ years of relevant design experience strongly preferred.


Physical Requirements

Ability to work extended periods at a computer.

Ability to travel to project sites as required.

Ability to access and inspect industrial equipment.

Must be able to wear required PPE and navigate multi-level industrial facilities.

Already have an account? Log in here