Senior Application Engineer (Knoxville)

Lead / Senior Application Engineer – Seating SolutionsLocation: Knoxville, TNWe're looking for a Lead / Senior Application Engineer to serve as the technical lead between customers, engineering, manufacturing, and sales teams for advanced seating solutions supporting automotive and commercial vehicle applications.This is a highly visible role where you'll influence design decisions, support product launches, troubleshoot technical challenges, and help drive manufacturable, cost-effective solutions from early concept through production.What You'll Be Working On:• Customer-facing application engineering for seating systems and related components• Translating OEM requirements into engineering documentation, drawings, and specifications• Supporting product development, prototype builds, validation, engineering changes, and launch readiness• Troubleshooting design, integration, manufacturability, durability, and installation issues• Supporting APQP, PPAP, DFMEA/PFMEA, and customer launch activities• Cross-functional collaboration with design engineering, manufacturing engineering, quality, and program management teams• Reviewing customer specifications, CAD models, 3D assemblies, and installation environments• Identifying opportunities for design improvements, standardization, and cost reductionTechnical Skills & Experience We're Looking For:• 8–10+ years of application engineering, product engineering, or design engineering experience• Background in automotive seating systems, commercial vehicles, off-highway, or heavy equipment• Strong understanding of seat design, packaging, ergonomics, suspensions, comfort solutions, and seat options• Experience interpreting customer specifications, engineering drawings, CAD models, and OEM standards• Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, DFMEA, PFMEA, engineering change management, and launch support• Understanding of seat manufacturing processes, assembly methods, and material cost drivers• Ability to troubleshoot system integration, durability, and manufacturability concerns• Familiarity with SAE, ISO, and OEM-specific engineering standards• Proficiency with CATIA, SolidWorks, or similar CAD/engineering tools• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders• Experience managing multiple engineering projects in fast-paced manufacturing environmentsRequired Qualifications:• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical discipline preferred• Customer-facing engineering experience strongly valued• Domestic travel approximately 10–20%This opportunity offers strong visibility, direct customer interaction, involvement in new product development, and the ability to make a meaningful impact on advanced seating solutions within the automotive and commercial vehicle industry.