CAE-Structural and Dynamics Engineer (GR 31)
PACCAR Technical Center is a global technology leader in the design, manufacture, and customer support of high-quality light-, medium-, and heavy-duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF nameplates. PACCAR also designs advanced diesel engines and provides financial services, information technology, and truck parts.
About the role
We are 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. 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. 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).
Responsibilities
- Execute comprehensive FEA analysis across components, assemblies, and full-vehicle platforms using industry-standard tools (ABAQUS, Optistruct, LS-DYNA).
- 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 plans, 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.
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
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
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
Pay
$100,100 - $156,600 annually.