Core Functional Safety Engineer

As a Core Functional Safety Engineer at Ford, you will play a key role in ensuring that advanced vehicle technologies are designed with safety at their core.

You will collaborate with global cross-functional teams to apply ISO 26262 processes, methods, and tools across multiple vehicle domains.

This role combines functional safety expertise with systems engineering practices, leveraging MBSE/SysML to develop and integrate safe, innovative solutions from concept through production.

You will contribute to safety concepts, system design, and continuous improvement initiatives while supporting Ford’s vision for next-generation electric and software-defined vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Execute ISO 26262 functional safety activities across global and cross-functional teams (e.g., powertrain, infotainment, active safety, driver assistance).
• Apply Ford functional safety processes, methods, tools, and training to develop safety work products for systems and software.
• Use MBSE/SysML to model system functions, interfaces, and safety-related behaviors.
• Support development of safety concepts (FSC/TSC) and system architectures.
• Collaborate with research and advanced engineering teams to transition new technologies into production.
• Create clear and compliant technical documentation to support audits, reviews, and program milestones.
• Work closely with product development, quality, and manufacturing teams to ensure “safety by design.”
• Identify and drive continuous improvement in functional safety processes, tools, and methodologies.
• Contribute to global safety libraries, standards, and best practices.
• Develop into a subject matter expert and support mentoring within the team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience or knowledge of ISO 26262 functional safety standard.
• 3+ years' experience with understanding of systems engineering principles and product development lifecycle.
• 3+ years' experience in automotive systems (e.g., ADAS, powertrain, infotainment).
• 3+ years' experience working in cross-functional engineering teams.
• 3+ years' experience with demonstrating the ability to develop and enhance engineering processes and deliverables through software programming (e.g., Python or similar), including automation, data analysis, and tool integration.

Even Better If...

• Experience with MBSE and SysML tools (e.g., MagicDraw, Cameo).
• Certification in ISO 26262 / ISO 21448 (SOTIF) / PAS 8800.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with global collaboration and agile development environments.