Automative Validation Engineer

Job Title: Automotive Systems Feature Engineer Location : Dearborn, MI Client : Cognizant We are seeking a highly skilled Automotive Systems Feature Engineer to lead and deliver Feature Assurance Engineering (FAE) activities across multiple vehicle domains. This role requires deep understanding of automotive feature development, validation, system integration, and issue resolution throughout the product lifecycle. The ideal candidate will work closely with Feature System Engineers (FSEs), testing teams, and cross-functional program stakeholders to ensure robust feature performance, regulatory compliance, and readiness for production. Key Responsibilities Feature Assurance & Systems Engineering Follow and deliver all Feature Assurance Engineering (FAE) deliverables. Work with the Feature System Engineer (FSE) to align and sign off on level of changes for assigned features. Lead the milestone feature signoff process in partnership with the FSE counterpart. Support creation, review, and signoff of Vehicle Specific Configuration Specifications (VSCS) by program milestones. Lead development and approval of Deliverable Recovery Plans (DRPs) for non-conformance items. Feature Validation & Test Planning Develop comprehensive feature validation plans, including: Functional & performance testing Functional Safety V&V Cybersecurity validation Regulatory compliance Select appropriate test cases, testing environments (Breadboard, HiL, vehicle), and required testing resources. Define software and hardware pedigree necessary to complete validation. Provide tester teams with all required artifacts (test cases, pedigrees, documentation). Coordinate execution of feature validation activities and provide support throughout testing. Assess test results for compliance with requirements and signoff criteria. Identify defects, determine P-ratings and Criticality Prioritization Numbers, and document issues in Jira. Lead triaging, troubleshooting, and resolution of issues throughout development. Feature Quality & Launch Support Support New Model Launch activities and adhere to launch timing guidelines. Lead resolution of Voice of the Customer (VOC) and AIM feature quality issues. Manage quality issues for both development and production phases. Develop negative test cases, stress tests, and Feature Assurance Test Procedures to evaluate edge cases and multi-interface conflicts. Correlate test results with customer expectations and ensure readiness for vehicle milestones. Jira Management & Documentation Create, manage, and maintain Jira tickets throughout feature lifecycle. Maintain a real-time, accurate open issues list with proper categorization, attachments, and descriptions. Upload all supporting engineering artifacts (CAN logs, Bus Queries, diagnostic traces, videos) for full traceability. Build and maintain Jira dashboards for reporting. Provide weekly/bi-weekly issue tracking reports and status updates. Prepare and deliver technical presentations and written reports for cross-functional teams and leadership. Vehicle Architecture Domains (Experience in at least one required) Battery Management & Charging Climate Control / HVAC Instrument Cluster / Infotainment Powertrain & Driveline Connected Vehicle Digital Keys Enclosure Systems Seat Controls & Passive Restraints Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Automotive, Systems, or related fields). Experience working with complex automotive systems. Strong troubleshooting, debugging, and analytical skills. Ability to lead validation projects across multiple test environments. Hands-on experience with vehicle logs, diagnostics, and test tools. Strong documentation, communication, and presentation skills. Experience working in cross-functional, fast-paced automotive development environments.