CAE-Structural and Dynamics Engineer (GR 31)

PACCAR•Mount Vernon, WA

2d•$100,100 - $156,600

About The Position

The PACCAR Technical Center is seeking an experienced CAE – Structural & Dynamics Engineer to drive innovation in heavy-duty truck development. You will leverage advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and vehicle dynamics simulation to deliver best-in-class durability, ride quality, handling, and NVH performance. In this role, you'll partner directly with Kenworth and Peterbilt engineering teams to predict design viability, validate concepts through simulation-to-test correlation, and translate complex technical findings into actionable recommendations. You'll balance technical excellence with project leadership—managing timelines, and cross-functional resources while staying at the forefront of emerging vehicle technologies (electrification, autonomous systems, alternative fuels). The ideal candidate combines 5+ years of CAE expertise with strong analytical skills, proven project management ability, and a commitment to continuous process improvement in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Requirements

7+ years of engineering experience
Experience with structural CAE, durability, or vehicle dynamics
Experience with nonlinear FEA (ABAQUS, LS-DYNA, or similar)
Experience with pre/post-processing tools (HyperMesh, HyperView, or equivalent)
Understanding of fatigue and durability analysis methodologies
Experience correlating CAE with test data
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Nice To Haves

5+ years of CAE expertise

Responsibilities

Execute comprehensive FEA analysis across components, assemblies, and full-vehicle platforms using industry-standard tools (ABAQUS, Optistruct, LSDYNA).
Develop and validate complex multi-body dynamics models (ADAMS, Motionview, Simpack) to support load case development and vehicle dynamics analysis.
Perform advanced fatigue and durability life predictions using specialized calculators (nCode, FE-Safe) with rigorous correlation to physical testing data.
Support model setup, meshing, and post-processing activities using HyperMesh/HyperView or similar tools.
Collaborate with validation teams to define data acquisition plan, review measured data and provide simulation feedback.
Own multi-project execution end-to-end, coordinating resources, managing dependencies, and ensuring on-time, on-budget delivery.
Proactively identify and mitigate project risks; adapt to shifting priorities and emerging requirements.
Synthesize simulation results into clear, compelling narratives for engineering stakeholders at all levels.
Deliver evidence-based design recommendations with quantified trade-offs and risk assessments.
Author comprehensive technical reports documenting methodology, validation approaches, results, and lessons learned.
Champion best-in-class simulation practices, identify opportunities to refine correlation methods, tools, and processes.
Stay current with industry advancements in CAE, AI/ML-assisted optimization, and digital engineering.
Support development of next-generation vehicle technologies: battery electric vehicles (BEVs), autonomous driving systems, alternative fuel powertrains, and advanced suspension architectures.

Benefits

Competitive salary and 401k with up to a 5% company match
Fully funded pension plan that provides monthly benefits after retirement
Comprehensive paid time off – Minimum of 10 paid vacation days, 12 paid holidays, and sick leave
Tuition reimbursement for continued education
Medical, dental, and vision plans for you and your family
Flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings account (HSA)
Paid short- and long-term disability program
Life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance
EAP services including wellness plans, estate planning, financial counseling and more
Global Fortune 500 company with a wide array of growth and development opportunities
Work alongside experienced goal-oriented colleagues recognized as experts in their field
Holiday gift