Overview

The Technical Specialist, Vehicle Dynamics Simulation is a key technical role within the Chassis engineering and Vehicle Dynamics (CEVD) team. In this role you are expected to be a subject matter expect as well as an individual contributor. In this role you are responsible for using multibody dynamics (MBD) software in support of product development of commercial trucks in the areas of ride quality, handling, durability loads prediction, and other vehicle attributes. This role will work cross functionally with the chassis and body development teams as well as vehicle performance and durability test and analysis groups. You will support the design and development of the class leading commercial vehicles through the creation and application of the latest simulation tools for suspension, steering, braking, and wheel/tire combinations from concept to production.

Responsibilities

You will:

• Use Adams MBD software to develop and simulate multibody models in support of product development of trucks, tractor-trailer combinations, electric and fuel cell powertrains (ZEVs)
• Collaborate with the CEVD and body teams as well as vehicle performance and durability test and analysis groups to ensure product development and validation correlation from real-world to analytical
• Support core vehicle programs with design, production, meeting milestones as well as technical targets standpoint
• Support benchmarking activities and comparison studies relative to key chassis dynamics and performance attributes
• Apply fundamental physics to lead progression of design maturity from initial concept to product launch, to next concept
• Provide objective guidance using data on vehicle dynamics and durability performance-based simulation outputs
• Analysis of real-world test data, correlation of models
• Support development and validation of Vehicle/System Design specifications incorporating company/industry/regulatory standards, test procedures and material specifications
• Influence resolution of design, attribute, or packaging incompatibilities through deep collaboration with cross-functional teams
• Support vehicle(s) launch and pre-production builds (both virtual and physical)
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

You are:

• Self-motivated and able to thrive in a team environment, without close supervision
• Strong strategic vision along with the planning and tactical skills to achieve the vision
• Able to combine patience, persistence, and organizational agility to operate in a multicultural, global corporate structure
• In-depth knowledge of vehicle dynamics, mechanical and system aspects, and interactions
• Desire for continuous learning

You have:

• Considering the challenges and complexity of the proffered position, one must have at least a Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Automotive Engineering or related degree
• Minimum 10 years of experience in automotive industry mechanical, design or product development experience (or closely related)
• Expertise in Multibody Dynamics Software such as ADAMS/Car, SimPack, etc.
• Experience with vehicle dynamics attributes such as ride quality (comfort), handling etc.
• Experience with Finite Element Analysis software such as Nastran / Abacus and Hypermesh to be able to modify/build FE models
• Experience and understanding of Matlab/Simulink fundamentals
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills

EEO Statement
Nikola Corporation™ is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, color, age, sex, ancestry, marital status, religion, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, medical condition, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information or any other classification protected by state or federal law.