CAE Model Build Engineer – Full Vehicle (ANSA Expert)

Job Title: CAE Model Build Engineer – Full Vehicle (ANSA Expert)

Location: Irvine CA- Onsite

Experience: 5–10 years (Automotive CAE Domain)

Department: CAE / Virtual Validation / Vehicle Engineering

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced CAE Model Build Engineer with deep expertise in Full Vehicle (FV) model build using ANSA, covering domains such as Crash & Safety, Durability, NVH, and Vehicle Dynamics. The candidate will be responsible for building, validating, and managing large-scale FE models, ensuring accuracy, robustness, and consistency with OEM standards and simulation requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Full Vehicle FE model build activities from CAD data to solver-ready models.
• Execute pre-processing, assembly, meshing, and connections in ANSA for multiple analysis disciplines.
• Work closely with simulation engineers to deliver validated, clean, and consistent models for Safety, Durability, NVH, and Dynamics simulations.
• Develop and maintain model build templates, macros, and automation scripts to enhance productivity and repeatability.
• Conduct model integrity checks (mass balance, connectivity, boundary conditions, material & property validation).
• Interface with Design, CAD, and CAE domain leads to resolve geometry, assembly, and connectivity issues.
• Support solver deck generation (LS-DYNA, Nastran, Abaqus, OptiStruct, etc.) and ensure compliance with project setup guidelines.
• Participate in model correlation and validation exercises with test data where applicable.
• Manage model data, revisions, and documentation within PLM/CAE data management systems (e.g., Teamcenter, SimManager).
• Provide mentoring and technical support to junior engineers on ANSA best practices and model build methodology.

Technical Skills Required

• Expert-level proficiency in ANSA (full vehicle assembly, connections, submodel creation, part management, scripting).
• Hands-on experience with Safety (Crash), Durability (Static/Fatigue), NVH (Modal/Frequency), and Dynamics (Ride & Handling) model build.
• Working knowledge of solvers such as LS-DYNA, Nastran, Abaqus, or OptiStruct.
• Strong understanding of FE modeling principles, element quality checks, contact definitions, and loadcase management.
• Familiar with material modeling, joints, fasteners, adhesives, and spot weld representations.
• Exposure to automation tools or scripting languages (Python, ANSA scripts, tcl).
• Experience in CAE data management systems (Teamcenter, SimManager, or equivalent).
   

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical / Automotive / Aerospace Engineering.
• Experience with OEM-level full vehicle model integration or supplier-level model build support.
• Knowledge of CAD to CAE workflows, model correlation, and DVP&R processes.
• Familiarity with multi-domain vehicle simulation environments and cross-functional collaboration.
• Prior involvement in CAE harmonization or process automation projects will be a plus. 
  

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and deliver high-quality output under tight timelines.
• Strong documentation and configuration management discipline