Junior Validation Engineer

IAV is offering exciting opportunities to join dynamic teams with exposure to top tier projects!

We are offering Hybrid Work Flexibility! APPLY TODAY!

IAV Group is an engineering and technical consultancy servicing the global automotive industry with approximately 7,000 employees worldwide and more than 40 years of experience. As a recognized leader in the specification, design, development, validation and production launch of advanced vehicle and powertrain systems, IAV Automotive Engineering deploys a leading team of technical experts, engineering tools and program processes from its North American Headquarters in Novi, Michigan.

IAV is currently seeking a highly motivated Junior Validation Engineer to support our vehicle validation fleet by monitoring, identifying, and tracking diagnostic fault codes across powertrain and vehicle systems. The ideal candidate will have foundational knowledge of engine and powertrain diagnostic systems and strong analytical skills. Candidate must be a resident or willing to relocate to Lisle, IL.

Why Join Us:

At IAV, you'll be part of a global leader in automotive engineering. We offer a dynamic work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and a culture that values innovation, collaboration, and diversity. Join us in driving the future of mobility.

Requirements

Essential Responsibilities & Activities:

This role is essential in ensuring product quality, supporting root‑cause investigations, and coordinating issue resolution with cross‑functional engineering teams.

1. Fault Code Monitoring & Analysis

• Continuously monitor validation fleet vehicles for diagnostic fault codes related to major vehicle systems, including engine, transmission, aftertreatment , and associated electronic control modules.
• Access and review data captured through vehicle-mounted data loggers using supplier portals and internal data systems.
• When a fault code is triggered, correlate occurrences with relevant parameters such as:
• Software versions and calibration levels
• Vehicle mileage and duty cycle
• Geographic location and environmental/weather conditions
• Maintenance or service activities performed during the corresponding time period.

2. Issue Tracking & Resolution Support

• Identify the most likely source or root‑cause area for each fault.
• Create, assign, and track issue tickets to the appropriate engineering teams (powertrain, software, calibration, systems, etc.).
• Monitor progress of assigned resolutions, ensuring timely updates and follow-through.
• Cross-check issues across internal systems to identify duplicate tickets and consolidate them when appropriate (same root cause, software level, or diagnostic condition).
• Close duplicate issues and maintain a clean, accurate issue‑tracking database.

3. Data Reporting & Visualization

• Generate periodic reports summarizing fleet diagnostic performance.
• Plot and analyze fault code trends by vehicle, mileage, source, time, environment, or operational conditions .
• Provide insights or patterns that support engineering root‑cause analysis and validation decision-making.

4. Technical Competencies

• Basic understanding of vehicle diagnostics, especially engine and powertrain systems , including how onboard monitors operate and how diagnostic codes are generated.
• Ability to interpret diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), monitors, and log files from electronic modules.
• Comfortable navigating multiple software portals and data interfaces.

• Demonstrate a willingness to learn and build technical knowledge and ability
• Domestic and International travel, if necessary
• All other duties as assigned.

Essential Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (or relevant technical discipline) required.

• Master’s Degree or Ph.D. in Engineering preferred.
• Minimum 3 years experience with engine or powertrain validation, diagnostic tools, or data logging systems.
• Exposure to commercial vehicle systems or heavy‑duty powertrains.
• Familiarity with OBD diagnostic concepts, powertrain systems, or vehicle monitoring tools.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, documentation skills required.
• Ability to work collaboratively with multiple engineering departments.
• Strong proficiency with verbal and written communication skills, analytical problem solving, and creativity.
• Willingness to travel

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Excel, data visualization tools, or scripting (Python, MATLAB, etc.) is a plus.
• Familiarity with Matlab / Simulink / ASCET; ETAS INCA and MDA; Aptive; MS Office suite a plus

Benefits

• 401K with company matching
• PTO (Paid Time Off) starts at 20days/year with 1 day accumulation per year
• Health/Dental/Vision insurance starts on date of hire
• Health saving account
• Flexible spending account
• Life insurance
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability (covered 100% premium)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Training and Development
• Paid Holidays
• Employee assistance program
• Employee Discount
• Referral program