Sophia Mitchell
+64 9 847 2156 | sophia.mitchell@email.com | 42 Rangitoto Avenue, Auckland 1010, New Zealand | linkedin.com/in/sophiamitchell

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Results-driven Suspension Geometry Engineer with 8+ years of experience in automotive suspension systems design, analysis, and optimization. Proven expertise in kinematic and compliance analysis, leveraging advanced CAE tools to deliver high-performance suspension solutions. Strong background in project management and cross-functional collaboration within fast-paced product development environments.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Suspension Geometry Engineer
Horizon Automotive Solutions, Hamilton
March 2021 – Present

• Lead suspension geometry design and optimization for multiple vehicle platforms, achieving 15% improvement in ride comfort metrics while maintaining handling performance targets
• Conduct kinematic and compliance (K&C) analysis using ANSYS and proprietary simulation tools to validate suspension architectures and identify design improvements
• Collaborate with chassis, steering, and vehicle dynamics teams to ensure integration of suspension systems with overall vehicle performance objectives
• Perform Design Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (DFMEA) on suspension components, reducing potential failure modes by 22% during early design phases
• Manage PDM systems for suspension design documentation, ensuring version control and cross-functional accessibility
• Mentor junior engineers on suspension geometry principles, CAE methodologies, and best practices in automotive engineering

Suspension Systems Engineer
Vertex Engineering Ltd, Wellington
June 2018 – February 2021

• Designed and analyzed suspension linkages, bushings, and mounting systems for mid-size sedan and SUV platforms using SolidWorks and AutoCAD
• Executed vehicle testing programs to validate suspension performance, correlating physical test data with simulation models to achieve 95% prediction accuracy
• Implemented Kaizen initiatives that streamlined suspension component approval processes, reducing development cycle time by 18%
• Coordinated with suppliers to ensure suspension components met design specifications, cost targets, and manufacturing feasibility requirements
• Prepared technical reports and presentations for management reviews and design milestone approvals

Design Engineer
Precision Dynamics Engineering, Christchurch
August 2016 – May 2018

• Supported suspension component design and development activities for light-duty truck programs
• Created detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings for suspension brackets, control arms, and stabilizer bar systems
• Conducted tolerance stack-up analysis and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) reviews to ensure manufacturability
• Assisted in prototype build activities and participated in vehicle testing to evaluate suspension system performance
• Developed Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) scripts to automate repetitive design calculations and improve engineering productivity by 25%

EDUCATION

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
University of Auckland, Auckland
Graduated: May 2016
Focus: Vehicle Dynamics and Suspension Systems

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
University of Canterbury, Christchurch
Graduated: May 2014

TECHNICAL SKILLS

CAE & Simulation: ANSYS (Structural, Modal Analysis), Kinematic & Compliance Analysis Tools
CAD Software: SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA
Engineering Methods: Design Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (DFMEA), Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
Product Development: PDM Systems, Project Management, Cross-functional Collaboration
Programming: Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), MATLAB
Manufacturing: Design for Manufacturing (DFM), Kaizen, Continuous Improvement

CERTIFICATIONS

Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP)
Project Management Professional (PMP) – In Progress

LANGUAGES

English (Native)
Japanese (Conversational)

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE International) – Member since 2016