Sr. Validation Engineer (North America Quality Center - NAQC)

The North American Quality Center (NAQC), the quality organization for Hyundai Motor Group's North American vehicles, is seeking a Senior Validation Engineer to join the New Model Validation Team.

This role is responsible for late-stage vehicle validation and durability program ownership for new models prior to starting production. The Senior Validation Engineer will lead full-vehicle durability validation programs, manage test execution with external partners, and perform failure analysis to identify and report quality risks early.

The position focuses on validating vehicle condition across powertrain, chassis, electrical, ADAS, and EV systems, with strong emphasis on data-driven validation, CAN analysis, and system-level diagnostics, supporting early improvement actions with global stakeholders.

• Own and manage new model durability validation programs from planning through final reporting.
• Validate overall vehicle condition during later stages of new model development across all major vehicle systems.
• Plan, execute, and support vehicle validation activities including:

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  • Hot and cold weather testing (summer and Winter activities)
  • Tow and brake performance testing
  • NVH evaluation
  • Ride and Handling
  • Engine and EV motor performance validation
  • Shift quality evaluation
  • EV charging validation
  • ADAS functionality and performance validation
  
  
  
  

• Perform failure analysis during durability testing, including issue triage, data review, and root cause investigation
• Plan and participate in vehicle teardowns and final evaluations, documenting findings and assessing system-level durability risks
• Utilize CAN analysis and vehicle data logging tools (Vehicle Spy, INCA, CANalyzer, or similar) to support Powertrain, ADAS, EV, and chassis system investigations
• Analyze durability test data and vehicle logs to identify trends, anomalies, and emerging quality risks
• Prepare and deliver technical reports and durability findings to Hyundai Motor Group in Korea to support early design and process improvements prior to SOP
• Lead technical discussions and review meetings with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and global partners
• Capture and apply lessons learned to improve durability strategies for future programs
• Mentor junior engineers and support continuous improvement of validation methods and processes
• Travel up to 40% domestically and internationally as required

• Basic Qualifications:
  
  
  
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering field.
  • 4+ years of experience in automotive engineering, vehicle validation, or durability testing
  • Experience owning or supporting vehicle durability programs in a development or pre-production environment
  • Hands-on experience with CAN communication, vehicle diagnostics, and data analysis
  • Proficiency with vehicle data logging and analysis tools (e.g., Vehicle Spy, INCA, CANalyzer, or equivalent)
  • Strong understanding of vehicle systems including Powertrain, ADAS, EV systems, and electronic controls
  • Experience performing failure analysis and translating technical findings into actionable recommendations
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including presenting technical findings to global stakeholders
  • Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced, program-driven environment
  • Valid Driver's License and satisfactory driving record
  
  
  
  

• Zero-dollar Employee Premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for You and Your Family
• 100% Employer-paid Disability and Life Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off Including Vacation, Sick, and Abundant Holidays
• Competitive Salaries
  
  
  
  • $98,000 ~ $125,000 (Annually)
  
  
  
  
• A Global Environment that Fosters Diversity
• Retirement Savings and Planning Benefits
• Access to Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Flexible Work Hours

• Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
  
  
  
  • HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.