Research Engineer: Catia Application Developer

Job Overview

In this position...

Responsibilities

• App Development & Integration: Apply 3DEXPERIENCE (3DX)/Catia CAA tools using C++ and Python to create custom architect linkage programs to automate data flow between simulation solvers (Hypermesh, LS-DYNA, AutoForm) and CAD environments.
• Computational Performance: Ensure developed tools and data pipelines are robust and computationally efficient, minimizing latency and maximizing throughput for large-scale simulation data.
• Data Analytics & DOE: Lead statistical sensitivity studies and Design of Experiments (DOE) to optimize manufacturing robustness. Validate the accuracy and performance of 3DX implementations.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Ford subject matter experts in forming, joining, and surface science to develop a unified digital twin for stamping, structural casting, and coating workflows.
• Process Optimization: Streamline simulation run-times and automate data processing to enable 100% in-house feasibility validation and rapid design iterations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Material Science and Engineering
• 2+ years of experience in industry and graduate study in application development using 3DExperience Catia CAA RADE
• Architectural Logic, Data & Integration: Highly proficient in 3DEXPERIENCE (3DX)/Catia CAA tools using C++ with experience using Python and MATLAB for linking disparate data formats
• Simulation: Knowledge of virtual manufacturing using CAE suites such as Ansys, Abaqus, LS-DYNA, or Nastran

Qualifications

• Theoretical Background: Strong foundation in Solid Mechanics (elasticity, plasticity), material deformation, and thermal-mechanical behavior.
• Material Science: Deep understanding of stress-strain behavior, anisotropy in sheet metal, and phase transformations during welding or baking.
• Statistics: Proficiency of Monte Carlo simulations and Six Sigma principles to handle "variation" as a statistical input rather than a single deterministic value.
• Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T): Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing to manage dimensional "stack-ups."

Skills

• Expertise in Catia application development
• Strong understanding of non-linear mechanics
• Ability to bridge engineering silos
• Proficiency in C++ and Python
• Knowledge of virtual manufacturing
• Experience with CAE suites such as Ansys, Abaqus, LS-DYNA, or Nastran

Benefits

• Immediate medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
• Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
• Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
• Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
• Tuition assistance
• Established and active employee resource groups
• Paid time off for individual and team community service
• A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day

Pay

This position is a salary grade 7 and ranges from $86,600-$144,900.

Schedule

This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week.