Structures and Chassis CAE Engineer - GM Defense
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 3, 2026. First seen by Alion on Sep 8, 2026. General Motors scores A on the Alion truth index.
Job Description
The Role
The Structures and Chassis CAE Engineer supports GM Defense by applying finite element analysis tools and methods to the design and development of body structure, RESS structure, chassis structure, suspension, steering components, and other vehicle structures. This role leads analysis activities that assess strength, static and dynamic stiffness, durability, and noise and vibration performance, and translates results into clear design recommendations.
What You'll Do
- Perform CAE analyses to support vehicle program execution and technology development across structural systems.
- Support component and subsystem test development, root cause analysis, and issue resolution.
- Perform fatigue analysis and develop block cycles used to drive physical testing for chassis, suspension, RESS, and related structural components.
- Create, document, and archive analysis models and results.
- Present results and provide actionable recommendations to support virtual reviews and program decision-making.
- Participate in Chassis Structure, Suspension, Steering, Structures Product Development, Vehicle Dynamics, and Noise and Vibration Performance Integration teams.
- Work closely with design engineers to develop new components and subsystems, define system requirements, and deliver technical solutions for current and future programs.
- Lead coordinated supplier CAE activities and support the Statement of Requirements process.
- Develop, maintain, and update the CAE portions of analysis, development, and validation plans.
- Provide technical leadership for advanced technology development, contribute to new CAE methods and techniques, and stay current with emerging tools, trends, and competitive products.
Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Engineering, or Physics.
- 5+ years of related experience in product design and the CAE field.
- Experience mentoring others and providing technical leadership in a CAE-focused environment.
- Familiarity with optimization, DOE, and automation of CAE workflows using tools such as Python, Tcl/Tk, AI/ML or similar to enable efficiency, automate repetitive tasks, and drive rapid product development.
- Strong knowledge of engineering fundamentals relevant to the role, such as mechanics, physics, metallurgy, manufacturing methods, electronics, software, or control systems.
- Experience with CAE modeling tools such as HyperWorks and/or ANSA.
- Experience with linear and non-linear CAE analysis tools such as NASTRAN, OptiStruct, Abaqus, LS-DYNA, and/or Adams.
- Experience with structural fatigue theory, tools, and methods, including DesignLife and/or nCode.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, sound analytical judgment, and the ability to solve complex, ambiguous problems while working effectively across teams.
- Candidate must either be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, asylee or refugee) or a non-U.S. Person who is eligible to obtain any required export control authorization.
What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
- Master’s degree in Engineering
- Engineering design and release experience
- Optimization integration into product design and development
- Previous Defense industry experience
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Benefits Overview
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We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
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