Class A – Alias Modeler

As a Class A Surface Designer, you’ll be responsible for creating production-ready surfaces that retain the visual appeal and identity of the design vision, ensuring that every design is feasible and up to Ford’s standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Surface Progression Leadership: Oversee the progression of surface design through evaluations and expert feedback to ensure class-A surface excellence.

• Cross-System Surface Execution: Lead the integration of surface design into all systems, ensuring full system compatibility.

• Design Integration: Ensure all surface interfaces are designed-in-context with a coordinated data set, including supplier data.

• Class A Surface Database Management: Develop and maintain a database for surface references (Ford SDMS system) to support consistent design evolution and change control.

• Issue Resolution: Proactively drive the resolution of surface data issues, coordinating power wall and digital reviews to finalize surfaces.

• Surface Development: Support the theme feasibility process, mentor Class A Surface Designers, and ensure the feasibility and quality of surfaces throughout the entire production lifecycle.

• Material Impact Considerations: Account for material selection and its impact on surface design, considering real-world material behavior beyond free states (installed positions).

• Tooling Release Support: Develop surfaces necessary for final Class A production prove-out and tooling release.

Qualifications:

• Education: Associate degree in Industrial Design, Transportation Design, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.

• Experience: Minimum 5 years of Class A experience, preferably within the automotive OEM space.

• Skills:

  • Proficient in Alias, ICEM Surf, ISD/IDX, Maya or equivalent Class A surfacing tools.

  • Understanding of the latest automotive Class A surface standards and the ability to validate surface geometry for optimal construction and design practices.

  • Familiarity with Unreal, VRED, or other equivalent rendering software.

  • Knowledge of the full surface development process, from the design phase to production release for both exterior and interior components.

Nice to Have:

• Comprehensive understanding of material selection and its influence on surfacing.

• Proficiency in 3D modeling and digital surface development.

• Ability to mentor and guide less-experienced designers in delivering feasible math surfaces.

Benefits of Joining Ford:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Immediate medical, dental, and prescription drug coverage.

• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off, flexible family care, and a generous holiday schedule.

• Employee Perks: Vehicle discount program, management leases, and tuition assistance.

• Career Development: Access to professional growth opportunities, employee resource groups, and paid community service.

• Other Benefits: Flexible work options, paid parental leave, and more.

Additional Information:

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

• We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, even if your experience doesn’t exactly match every requirement. If you have the passion and drive to contribute to Ford’s legacy, we want to hear from you!