Advanced Engineer - CAE Simulation

About the role

CAE simulation and analysis

• Perform implicit and explicit finite element analyses for component and system simulations, including crash, occupant protection and restraint-system interactions.
• Develop, maintain and validate high-fidelity FE models, material definitions and contact formulations.
• Execute parametric studies, sensitivity analyses and design optimisation.
• Produce reproducible simulation procedures and modelling standards.

Test correlation and validation

• Correlate simulation results with component and system test data and close gaps between CAE predictions and measurements.
• Support validation test planning and interpretation, including pre-test predictions and post-test reports.
• Document simulation assumptions, boundary conditions and limitations, and improve test and measurement plans.

Collaboration and process improvement

• Work with design, prototyping, materials, manufacturing and quality teams.
• Provide technical guidance, support design reviews and advise on DFMEA and simulation-led design modifications.
• Coordinate with suppliers and external partners on material characterisation and specialised modelling.
• Improve CAE workflows, automate routine processes and implement model verification and validation practices.
• Apply advanced techniques such as multi-body dynamics co-simulation, material nonlinearities and probabilistic approaches where appropriate.
• Develop simulation training materials and mentor junior CAE engineers.

Deliverables

• Deliver validated FE models and simulation packages supporting design decisions.
• Prepare analysis reports, correlation evidence and documented assumptions for project archives.
• Provide recommendations to improve product performance, safety and manufacturability.
• Create automated scripts, modelling templates and documented CAE procedures.
• Deliver simulation milestones in line with project schedules and review gates.

Experience and skills

• 4–8 years of CAE, structural simulation or related engineering experience in automotive or safety-critical industries.
• Experience with explicit and implicit finite element solvers, including LS-DYNA, Abaqus/Explicit, Abaqus/Standard or equivalent.
• Strong meshing, contact definition, non-linear material modelling and model validation skills.
• Experience correlating CAE results with physical tests and interpreting measurement data.
• Proficiency in pre/post-processing tools, Python, Tcl or similar scripting, and data analysis.
• Familiarity with restraint systems or other occupant protection domains is preferred.