Electrical Engineer – Direct Connection/SRT Performance Parts

Direct Connection is expanding its portfolio of aftermarket performance parts and looking for a hands-on Electrical Engineer to own the design, validation, and release of wiring harnesses, electronic control modules, and performance electronics. You’ll work across concepts, prototyping, lab and vehicle validation, and production launch—partnering with mechanical, calibration, and motorsports teams to deliver reliable, track-proven performance.

What You’ll Do (Key Responsibilities)

• Harness Engineering

• Design low- and high-current 12V/48V wiring harnesses and power distribution for performance applications (engine swaps, crate engines, upgraded fuel/ignition systems, add-on modules).
• Create schematics, pinouts, and drawings; select connectors/terminals (e.g., Deutsch, TE/Delphi, Molex), wire spec, shielding, protection, and grommets.
• Define harness routing, bundling, sleeving, labels, and heat/abrasion protection suitable for under-hood and motorsport environments.
• Author and build documentation, BOMs, and support work instructions and QC criteria for internal or contract manufacturing.
• Modules & Electronics
• Architect and develop aftermarket control modules (e.g., add-on ECUs, I/O expanders, signal conditioners, power control, sensor interfaces).
• Perform PCB bring-up, bench testing, and basic firmware integration (C/C++ preferred) for diagnostics and I/O control.
• Implement vehicle network communications.
• Support ECU calibration workflows (signals/IO, logging, flashing) in partnership with powertrain calibration.
• Validation & Compliance
• Build and execute DVP&R plans (bench, HIL/sim, vehicle, dyno/track); capture test data and publish reports.
• Conduct EMI/EMC pre-compliance checks and collaborate with labs for formal testing; drive design-for-EMC improvements.
• Perform environmental & durability validation (thermal, vibration, ingress, load-dump/transients).
• Complete DFMEA for harnesses/modules and implement design controls for reliability and safety.
• Ensure compatibility with OEM systems (body, powertrain, and safety where applicable) without adverse interactions.
• Diagnostics & Tools
• Develop and maintain diagnostic strategies, pinout guides, and service procedures for installers and customers.
• Build test fixtures, breakout boxes, and automated test scripts for verification and end-of-line testing.
• Provide technical support to tech line, field engineers, and key customers; assist with installation guides and training materials.
• Cross-Functional & Supplier Engagement
• Collaborate with purchasing, suppliers, and CM partners on DFM/DFx, PPAP/FAI (as applicable), and cost/quality tradeoffs.
• Manage change control (CNs), maintain revision control, and support production issue resolution.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering or related degree field
• 8 or more years of hands-on automotive electronics experience (aftermarket or OEM/tier-1)
• Proficiency in:
• Vehicle networking: CAN/CAN FD, LIN; Vector CANalyzer/CANoe (or equivalent).
• Harness design: schematic capture, connector/terminal selection, crimp validation, wire derating, grounding/shielding best practices
• Lab instrumentation: oscilloscopes, DMMs, power supplies, electronic loads, logic analyzers
• Diagnostics: OBD-II basics, UDS services, flashing, DTCs, and data logging.
• Track record of delivering hardware from prototype to production with clear documentation and test evidence
• Strong hands-on skills: soldering, rework, crimping, harness assembly/proofing, and safe vehicle test practices

Preferred Qualifications:

• MATLAB/Simulink for controls/prototyping; Altium or similar for PCB design; LTspice for circuit analysis
• Exposure to high-current systems (fuel pumps, fans, ignition coils), load-dump/transient protection, and MOSFET/H-bridge designs
• Familiarity with ISO 7637, CISPR 25/UNECE R10 (EMC), and practica