CAE Engineer
Location : Newark, CA or Detroit, MI
Job Type : Contract, Long term
Job Summary :
We are seeking a skilled CAE Engineer - Automotive Closures to support the design and development of structural body components including hoods, fenders, doors, decklids, and tailgates. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in aluminum or composite design, as well as closure systems involving hinges and kinematic requirements. You will work closely with cross-functional teams from concept to production, integrating CAE analysis to optimize structural performance, manufacturability, and cost.
Key Responsibilities :
- Design and develop closure structural parts (hoods, fenders, doors, decklids, tailgates), from concept to production.
- Focus on aluminum and / or composite material applications with knowledge of hinge and kinematic functionality.
- Apply advanced CAE tools to evaluate structural performance, NVH, and durability targets.
- Interpret analysis results and collaborate with the design team to evolve and optimize CAD models.
- Coordinate virtual validation and physical testing plans to verify design integrity and performance.
- Collaborate with attribute owners (Vehicle Safety, NVH, Durability, Dynamics) to ensure performance alignment.
- Work closely with manufacturing teams to validate tooling, assembly feasibility, and process optimization.
- Conduct design benchmarking activities for material, section properties, and competitive analysis.
- Use GD&T to determine necessary tolerances for manufacturing.
- Interface with suppliers and internal teams to support tool buy-offs and part changes.
- Provide direction and support to junior engineers and team members.
Domestic and international travel may be required.
Required Qualifications :
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.5+ years of experience in closure systems design (OEM or Tier 1 Supplier level preferred).Proven hands-on experience in Class A surface modeling and prototype assembly.Proficiency in CAE tools (such as ANSA, Abaqus, LS-DYNA, HyperMesh, NASTRAN).Experience in full product lifecycle development : concept → prototype → production.Familiarity with DFMEA, DVP&R, and related engineering validation frameworks.Strong collaboration and communication skills across cross-functional and global teams.Preferred Skills :
Experience working with lightweight materials such as aluminum and composites.Knowledge of stamping and joining technologies.Previous experience supporting supplier and tool validation efforts.Strong knowledge of kinematics, structural analysis, and GD&T principles.