Virtual Design Development & Validation Engineer - Body Systems

GM • Warren, MI

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We’re turning today’s impossible into tomorrow’s standard —from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features. Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale. The Role The Body Systems Virtual Design Development & Validation (VDDV) Engineer is responsible for supporting the move to virtual engineering by leading the design and integration of body and closures systems. This position is highly technical and collaborative, involving partner teams throughout Virtual Design Development and Validation (VDDV), Design, Vehicle Performance, Validation and Global Vehicle Hardware Engineering. The role deals with multiple emerging technologies, and constant pursuit of innovation is key to its success.

Requirements

• BS Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• Undergraduate coursework in Strength of Materials and Engineering Mechanics.
• 2+ years’ experience in Linear Analysis (NASTRAN/OPTISTRUCT or equivalent), Quasi-Static Analysis (LS DYNA) and optimization / diagnostic tools (Genesis)
• Familiarity with a variety of CAE modeling tools.
• Exhibits appropriate interpersonal styles and communication methods to work effectively with business partners to meet mutual goals.
• Proven ability to work in teams, balancing technical theory with practical limitations.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• MS in Engineering.
• 4+ years’ experience in Linear Analysis (NASTRAN/OPTISTRUCT or equivalent), Quasi-Static Analysis (LS DYNA) and optimization / diagnostic tools (Genesis)
• Participation in collegiate/competitive teams such as Baja SAE (Mini Baja), Formula SAE, EcoCAR, PACE, or comparable programs.
• Familiarity with UG-NX CAD & CAE tools.
• Ability to interpret results and debug basic model issues.
• Familiarity with SDM/PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter, IBM Rational Team Concert) for model storage, configuration, and traceability.
• Experience with one or more languages such as Python and/or C/C++.
• Ability to write clear, well‑documented scripts/utilities to automate simulation workflows and data processing.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis to lead and execute the development of new architectures and subsequent variants.
• Drive the design through appropriate analyses, deep dive efficient / integrated design solutions, provide clear design direction to partners and confirm performance.
• Responsible for creating and executing Finite Element Analysis (FEA) plans for assigned projects.
• Lead CAE suppliers and internal resources to meet program milestones and deliverables.
• Recommend viable design solutions to resolve any performance issues with mass & cost efficiency.
• Interface with the SMT, validation, structure integration, N&V, and safety integration engineers to assure balance of vehicle structure requirements and design solutions.
• Conduct topology optimization to identify architectural load paths to close the gap to requirements and implement enablers into the math released.
• Participate in Product Development Teams (PDTs) to provide technical guidance based on CAE analysis.
• Plan, support and implement development projects to enhance virtual methods.
• Enhance efficiency and quality by identifying / developing process automation tools.
• Help identify strategic opportunities for innovating processes and methods.
• Responsible for documenting analysis performance for program management and CAE report documentation (Virtual Validation) as required.
• Stay abreast of new technology, competitive products, and latest CAE tools/trends.
• Advocate for adoption of virtual methods for vehicle design, development, and validation.

Benefits

• From day one, we're looking out for your well-being–at work and at home–so you can focus on realizing your ambitions.
• Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level