Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – 25 million children twice a day – making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 20,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses in operation today. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. For more information on Blue Bird's complete product and service portfolio, visit www.blue-bird.com. 

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking an experienced Design Engineering Lead/Senior Design Engineer specializing in design, development, integration, validation, and launch of automotive product systems. This position will be based at the Blue Bird Fort Valley, Georgia manufacturing facility.  

Reporting to the Engineering Director, the Design Engineering Lead/Senior Design Engineer will lead strategic projects on the Current Model Engineering team focused around cost and efficiency improvements, new product enhancements applicable to current model, and quality  improvements.  Design Engineering Lead/Senior Design Engineer will provide mentorship, technical guidance, and project management leadership across the engineering team. You will drive the development and refinement of innovative solutions, oversee the design process, and ensure the successful execution of chassis, powertrain, and body projects affecting the current model of our products. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead the evolution of school bus products, while managing key project deliverables related to cost, timing, risks, and issues.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Leading design projects, refine, and implement innovative chassis, powertrain, and structural design models and drawings
• Conduct technical research and gather data to support design decisions, product system definition, and project development
• Oversee the production and validation of design drawings, test documentation, and product component specifications
• Lead the development and review of enhanced and new components and systems, ensuring alignment with industry standards and customer requirements
• Review and interpret applicable FMVSS, state, and customer-specific requirements for school bus and non-school bus systems
• Prepare and present technical documentation, reports, and project updates to stakeholders, ensuring clarity and accuracy
• Provide expert troubleshooting and constructive feedback during design reviews, driving continuous improvement
• Stay updated on industry trends, emerging materials, and manufacturing processes related to heavy truck and bus systems
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure design feasibility, manufacturability, and alignment with overall product objectives
• Promote best practices in automotive and heavy truck engineering, ensuring compliance with vehicle functional requirements and traceability
• Manage engine model year launches, ensuring seamless integration and delivery
• Manage key project deliverables, including cost, timing, risk management, and project tracking, providing regular updates to leadership
• Perform other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Proficiency in engineering software and tools such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, SolidWorks, or other relevant software
• Strong technical expertise in automotive and engineering systems, with the ability to manage complex projects from concept to completion
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on practical, data-driven solutions
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to effectively present technical information to cross-functional teams and stakeholders
• Strong leadership and teamwork abilities, with a demonstrated track record of mentoring engineers and driving successful project outcomes
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment, balancing competing priorities effectively
• In-depth understanding of engineering systems and controls, with knowledge of industry standards and regulatory requirements

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university
• Minimum of 12 years’ experience in automotive or aerospace engineering, with at least 5 years specializing in design of products, systems, and/or product improvements
• Cross functional experience in both Design and Manufacturing is highly preferred

WORK CONDITIONS:

(The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

• Office environment with occasional periods in manufacturing environment, especially during product testing, launch, or when problem solving
• Based in the Fort Valley, Georgia manufacturing facility
• Fast-paced work environment with regular collaboration across departments and locations
• Ability to work extended hours or weekends as needed to meet project deadlines

*The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive.  They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Blue Bird’s winning culture is fueled by our ability to respect, encourage, celebrate and embrace the unique perspectives of all of our employees.  We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer who is committed to providing all of our employees with a work environment free of discrimination or harassment.  We base our employment decisions on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, national, social or ethnic origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, past or present military service, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.  

Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire.