Hella Hiring Engineers In Michigan, Illinois
Hella, the German auto supplier with heavy operations in the Midwest, said Wednesday that it is hiring engineers and other professionals in North America to meet a growing demand for automotive electronic components.
A global supplier of electronics and lighting, Hella expects to fill more than 20 positions at facilities in Plymouth and in Flora, Ill., through the third quarter of this year, according to Martin Fischer, president of Hella Electronics and the Hella Corporate Center USA in Plymouth. The company plans to hire additional employees later this year, as well.
Fischer said the company expects to grow its electronics business in the NAFTA trade region at an annual rate of 20 percent or more to keep pace with increased vehicle sales, consumer interest in more fuel-efficient cars and demand for new radar-based driver-assistance systems. This demand may help the U.S. auto industry return to annual sales of 14 million or more, as many analysts have predicted.
"We currently offer a variety of electrical components that will help automakers meet new government emissions and fuel-economy requirements," the Hella executive said.
Products based on 24-GHz radar technology are expected to spark additional sales for the company and include systems that help drivers maintain a safe distance between vehicles, assist with lane changes, and provide blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts.
"Radar technology definitely will help us maintain our leadership position in the development of driver-assistance systems," Fischer explained, "Radar operates in all weather conditions and automakers are receiving a positive response for these systems from consumers."
Hella is following the lead of several other automotive manufacturers in adding jobs in engineering and product development. Ford Motor Company, for example, recently announced plans to add up to 50 engineers to expand its line-up of electric and hybrid-electric vehicles. BMW, Chrysler Group, Daimler, General Motors, Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan and Toyota Motors also are planning to have electric vehicles in production by 2013.
Fischer said that in addition to positions in engineering and product development, Hella also has openings in human resources, quality control and sales. At www.hella.com/careers Hella provides additional information on job openings and how to submit job applications.
Hella KGaA Hueck & Co. develops and manufactures lighting and electronics components and systems for the auto industry. Its joint venture companies also produce complete vehicle modules, air conditioning systems and vehicle electric systems. In addition, Hella has one of the largest automotive aftermarket organizations in the world, with its own sales companies and partners in more than 100 countries.
Hella Group sales were $4.68 billion in fiscal year 2008-2009. Nearly 23,000 people work at 70 locations in more than 30 countries, including more than 3,200 research and development engineers and technicians.
More at www.hellausa.com.
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