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Structures and Chassis CAE Engineer - GM Defense

GM Defense
Milford, MI Full Time
POSTED ON 9/30/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/7/2026
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


#GMD

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc). This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}. The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role. This job may be eligible for relocation benefits. This position requires the ability to legally operate a motor vehicle on a regular basis and successfully complete a Motor Vehicle Report review. The position is subject to export control restrictions and requires the successful candidate to be either 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.

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us

We believe we all must make a choice every day – individually and collectively – to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.

Benefits Overview

From day one, we're looking out for your well-being–at work and at home–so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

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.

Accommodations

General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

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