National Manager, Forensic Engineering & Investigation

At Kia, we’re creating award-winning products and redefining what value means in the automotive industry. It takes a special group of individuals to do what we do, and we do it together. Our culture is fast-paced, collaborative, and innovative. Our people thrive on thinking differently and challenging the status quo. We are creating something special here, a culture of learning and opportunity, where you can help Kia achieve big things and most importantly, feel passionate and connected to your work every day.

Kia provides team members with competitive benefits including premium paid medical, dental and vision coverage for you and your dependents, 401(k) plan matching of 100% up to 6% of the salary deferral, and time off starting at 14 days per year. Kia also offers company lease and purchase programs, company-wide holiday shutdown, paid volunteer hours, and premium lifestyle amenities at our corporate campus in Irvine, California.

Status

Exempt

Summary

The National Manager will use engineering skills and automotive knowledge to assist the Director, Safety Evaluation & Regulatory Compliance, in investigating potential safety issues on Kia products and lead the Forensic Engineering & Investigation (FEI) team. Primary responsibilities include overseeing vehicle-, system-, and component-level safety evaluations by the Kia North America Safety Office, supporting Kia America Legal and Customer Care departments and outside counsel in assessing vehicle performance related to claims and lawsuits, and developing Kia’s response to NHTSA investigations, inquiries, and complaints. 

Major Responsibilities

1st Priority - 50%

Lead the investigation of potential safety related issues and provide engineering analysis and recommendations to the Director. 
Collaborate closely with other NASO teams and Kia North America teams to support early detection and early action related to potential safety issues.

2nd Priority - 20%

Lead the technical support activities for Kia America Legal Department counsel, outside counsel, and experts. Oversee inspections and technical analysis for product liability litigation concerning Kia vehicles. 

3rd Priority - 15%

Lead the technical review, analysis, and action plan for NHTSA investigations, inquiries, and complaints (VOQs) involving Kia products. Supervise and prioritize investigation of related field vehicles and components.

4th Priority - 15%

Review high-priority product allegations that are potentially safety related and provide recommendations and guidance to Legal and Customer Care departments. Conduct vehicle inspections, component evaluations, and, as requested by Kia America Legal, provide deposition and trial testimony. 

 

Education/Certification

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or automotive technology, or equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

Overall Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in technical positions (e.g., Product Investigation Engineer, Product or Service Engineer, District Parts & Service Manager, Training Center Manager, Technical Compliance Specialist, Field Technical Specialist).
• Minimum 5 years of automotive industry experience.
• Minimum 2 years of supervisory experience.
   

Directly Related Experience

• Working knowledge of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and Motor Vehicle Safety Act requirements.

Other Requirements: 

• Must have a valid driver’s license. Position requires driving Kia and competitor vehicles to evaluate vehicles.
• Domestic and international travel may be required up to 25%
• Ability to frequently use hand(s) for repetitive actions (grasping, typing, and fine manipulation).
• Ability to frequently walk or move – to regularly move about inside the office and in/around a vehicle.
• Ability to occasionally bend, kneel, crouch, turn, and stoop.
• Ability to frequently sit or be stationary for extended periods of time.
• Ability to stand for occasional periods of time.
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or push/pull up to 20 pounds.
   

Skills

Ability to accurately analyze and present technical data to technical and non-technical people, in written, visual, and verbal communications.Ability to interpret Event Data Recorder and Airbag Control Unit records.Ability to represent the company in a professional manner to government agencies, other companies, local law firms, judges, and juries.Knowledge of MS Office, case management system(s), and automotive service information system(s).Leadership skills to support growth, development, and management of a team of direct and indirect rep