Watch CBS News

Bright Automotive Hiring 200 Engineering, Sales Pros In Southeast Michigan

Anderson, Ind.-based Bright Automotive says it is now hiring to fill 200 jobs in Southeast Michigan over the next year to bring its Idea concept vehicle to market.

The Idea is an all-new, efficient, plug-in electric hybrid vehicle tailored to the needs of fleet vehicle customers. The vehicle features lightweight materials, aerodynamics, system operating efficiencies and powertrain performance.

"Bright Automotive is building a team that is innovative, collaborative and entrepreneurial to engineer and bring to market its  transportation solution focused on reducing fleet operating costs and improving efficiency while simultaneously reducing the environmental impact of operation," said COO Mike Donoughe. "As a symbol for change in the automotive industry, our expanding company is seeking individuals who thrive in an environment of creativity, growth, and shared objectives."

The 200 positions will be based in Rochester Hills, Mich., at the new technical center the company recently announced its plans to open in 2011. Along with its operations in Indiana, the center -- a frmer Chrysler call center -- will serve as the primary center for research, design and development of the IDEA.

"The state of Michigan offers a diverse talent pool primed with individuals to help us meet the needs of our business," added Sandy Fiaschetti, vice president of people development. "As a company, Bright Automotive is committed to helping retain talent in the state with positions available for recent graduates as well as seasoned professionals."

Available positions include vehicle and manufacturing engineering in the areas of design, body, interior, chassis, electrical, powertrain and vehicle development as well as key business functions such as supply chain management, information technology, sales, marketing and finance. To review and apply for job postings, visit www.brightautomotive.com/careers.

Bright Automotive also will host a series of informational forums for suppliers to engage with companies interested in working on the project and providing solutions needed to move the Idea toward production quickly. For more information or to register for a forum, contact Bright Automotive at supplierinfo@brightautomotive.com.

In January 2008, Bright Automotive launched from Colorado-based Rocky Mountain Institute with the goal of building on the work of a consortium of organizations, including Alcoa, Google.org, Johnson Controls and the Turner Foundation. The Bright Idea is a brand-new, 100-mpg plug-in hybrid electric fleet vehicle achieving breakthroughs in platform efficiency.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.