Manager, Seat Comfort Engineering

We are the movers of the world and the makers of the future. We get up every day, roll up our sleeves and build a better world -- together. At Ford, we’re all a part of something bigger than ourselves. Are you ready to change the way the world moves?

Product Development uses design thinking & user experience methods to deliver breakthrough products and services that delight our customers. We bring innovative, exciting, and sustainable ideas to life.  We have opportunities around the world for you to contribute to advancements in autonomy, electrification, smart mobility technologies, and more!

In this position... 
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Manager, Seat Comfort Engineering to lead our efforts in designing and delivering world-class seat comfort experiences across our vehicle lineup. In this critical role, you will be responsible for defining the future of seat comfort at Ford, from foundational research to production implementation. You will lead a talented team, collaborate cross-functionally, and partner with key suppliers to ensure our seats provide unparalleled comfort, support, and luxury for our customers.

What you'll do...

• Strategic Leadership & Data-Driven Decisions:
  • Develop and champion a comprehensive, long-term strategy for seat comfort, integrating customer insights, ergonomic principles, biomechanical data, and market trends.
  • Utilize advanced analytics, objective metrics, and subjective evaluations to make data-driven decisions that enhance seat comfort performance and perceived quality.
  • Define key performance indicators (KPIs) for seat comfort and establish robust methodologies for measurement and continuous improvement.
  • Benchmark competitor offerings and identify opportunities for Ford to differentiate through superior comfort solutions.
• Technology & Innovation Integration:
  • Drive the identification, evaluation, and incorporation of new and emerging technologies in seat design, materials, and comfort features (e.g., advanced foams, smart textiles, adaptive support systems, integrated sensors).
  • Lead research and development initiatives to explore novel approaches to seat comfort, collaborating with internal research teams and external academic/industry partners.
  • Translate innovative concepts into feasible and manufacturable solutions that meet Ford's quality, cost, and timing targets.
• Supplier Development & Management:
  • Cultivate strong relationships with current and potential seat and component suppliers, fostering innovation and ensuring alignment with Ford's strategic goals.
  • Drive supplier capability development, ensuring they meet rigorous technical, quality, and production standards for seat comfort components and systems.
  • Collaborate on joint development programs with suppliers to bring next-generation comfort solutions to market efficiently.
• Quality & Continuous Improvement:
  • Establish and oversee robust processes for quality assurance throughout the seat development lifecycle, from concept to launch and beyond.
  • Implement continuous improvement initiatives based on field data, warranty analysis, customer feedback, and internal testing to address comfort-related issues and proactively enhance product quality.
  • Lead root cause analysis and problem-solving efforts for complex comfort challenges, driving effective and sustainable solutions.
• Component Management & Integration:
  • Oversee the engineering, integration, and performance of critical seat comfort components and systems, including but not limited to:
    • Multi-Contour Seat (MCS) systems (massage, bolster adjustments)
    • Heating and Ventilation (HVAC) systems integrated into seats
    • Power and manual adjusters
    • Lumbar support systems
    • Head restraints and armrests
    • Seat structures, foams, and trim covers as they relate to comfort.
  • Ensure seamless integration of these components with the overall vehicle architecture and HMI (Human-Machine Interface).
• Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of highly skilled engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
  • Collaborate extensively with design, ergonomics, vehicle dynamics, manufacturing, purchasing, and marketing teams to ensure holistic vehicle comfort and customer satisfaction.
  • Represent Seat Comfort Engineering in various program reviews, technical forums, and leadership discussions. 

You'll have...
Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Materials, Industrial, or related field).
5+ years of experience in automotive seat engine