Trans & Driveline CAE engineer

Ford, Inc; Naucalpan de Juárez; Hybrid; MXN 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Job summary

Ford Motor Company is seeking a Transmission Driveline CAE engineer to advance structural simulations for transmissions, axles, and driveline components. You will translate physical phenomena into accurate CAE models and influence robust, manufacturable, cost-effective designs.

Role requires FEA knowledge (Abaqus/OptiStruct), CAD tools (CATIA, SolidWorks), and scripting for process automation. Collaboration with D&R and cross-functional teams is essential for progress and quality.

Qualifications

• BS in Mechanical, Automotive, or Aerospace Eng or related field.
• MS in Mechanical Eng or related field preferred.
• 2–5+ years in automotive product development, focusing on durability and structural analysis.
• Foundational knowledge of FEA, solid mechanics, and fatigue principles with Abaqus/OptiStruct.
• Hands-on with Abaqus/Standard or OptiStruct and CAE pre/post-processing tools.
• Experience with HyperWorks, ANSA, SimLab or equivalents.
• Knowledge of nonlinear material modeling and fatigue life evaluation software.
• Proficient in CATIA V5/V6 and CAD data management tools.
• Ability to develop design concepts, assemblies, and vehicle environment models.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform strength and fatigue assessments (Linear and Non-Linear) for components, assemblies, sub-systems, and systems within transmission architectures and drivelines.
• Assist in conducting structural analyses on internal components and sub-assemblies (e.g., gears, splines, bearings, differentials, clutches).
• Provide program design alternatives by running large DOE CAE studies to optimize performance, mass, and cost.
• Apply Python or TCL to automate CAE pre/post-processing tasks and support new engineering standards.
• Lead or support cross-functional issue resolution with D&R Engineers to evaluate architecture proposals.
• Create accurate CAE status reports and develop presentations for technical management.
• Demonstrate ability to provide technical direction and mentor staff for large-scale analyses.

Skills

FEA

Solid mechanics

Fatigue analysis

DOE

Python

Communication

Leadership

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering

Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Abaqus/Standard

OptiStruct

HyperWorks

ANSA

SimLab

CATIA V5/V6

NX

SolidWorks

Teamcenter

Vismockup

Job description

Trending

Job Description

This position within the Transmission Driveline Engineering CAE team is a critical role dedicated to the structural simulation of advanced transmission architectures, axles, and driveline components. The role centers on translating real-world physical phenomena into highly accurate CAE models, playing an active part in shaping the structural integrity, durability, and performance of future vehicle transmission and driveline systems. This role utilizes advanced FEA methods to provide fundamental engineering understanding, optimize structural designs, and make recommendations that ensure transmission architectures and driveline systems are robust, manufacturable, and cost-effective while meeting strict internal quality and customer requirements.

Responsibilities

• Perform strength and fatigue assessments (Linear and Non-Linear) for components, assemblies of components, sub-systems, and systems within transmission architectures and drivelines, including the structural evaluation of cast housings, shafts, and rotating parts.
• Assist in conducting comprehensive structural analyses on a wide variety of internal components and sub-assemblies (e.g., gears, splines, bearings, differentials, and clutches).
• Provide program design alternatives by running large Design of Experiments (DOE) CAE studies. Optimize the structural performance, mass, and cost of components and complex assemblies using advanced topology, gauge, and shape optimization tools.
• Apply scripting languages (like Python or TCL) to automate repetitive CAE pre/post-processing tasks. Support the continuous improvement and development of new CAD/CAE engineering standards and methods.
• Lead or support cross-functional issue resolution by partnering with Design & Release (D&R) Engineers across different functions to evaluate architecture proposals and ensure compliance with vehicle requirements.
• Create accurate CAE engineering status reports, verify completeness of structural assessments, and develop presentations for technical management and leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to provide technical direction, mentor support staff, and manage large-scale analyses independently (Expected for advanced/experienced engineers).

Qualifications

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.

Master of Science (M.S.) in Mechanical Engineering or related field is preferred.

2 to 5+ years of automotive product development experience, specifically focused on Durability and structural analysis of suspension architectures or steering components (for experienced candidates).

Foundational knowledge of Finite Element Analysis (FEA), solid mechanics, and fatigue principles, including experience with solvers like Abaqus and OptiStruct (or equivalent).

Hands-on experience with industry-standard FEA solvers, specifically Abaqus/Standard or OptiStruct.

Familiarity with CAE pre- and post-processing and meshing tools (e.g., HyperWorks, ANSA, SimLab, or equivalent).

Knowledge of non-linear material modeling, such as hyperelastic rubber materials used in suspension bushings or damper seals (for experienced candidates).

Experience with fatigue life evaluation software (e.g., nCode DesignLife, FEMFAT, or fe-safe).

Experience with Optimization and DOE tools (e.g., OptiStruct, Tosca Structure, ModeFRONTIER, HEEDS).

Proficiently uses CATIA V5/V6 and similar CAD software (e.g., 3DX, NX, SolidWorks), along with Teamcenter and Vismockup, to efficiently create and manage robust, parametric, and associative Build to Print (B2P) parts.

Develop high-quality 3D CAD design concepts and alternatives promptly.

Creates and manages assemblies, drawings, motion files, and other related CAD data, as well as the complete vehicle environment with all system interfaces.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills to effectively translate analysis data into actionable design recommendations.

About Us

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow’s transportation.

About the Team

Ford Product Development is utilizing Design Thinking & User Experience methods to deliver breakthrough products and services that will delight our customers. Our employees are laser-focused on bringing innovative, exciting, and sustainable ideas to life. From autonomy and electrification, to smart mobility technologies, our Product Development teams around the world are working together with excitement to make smart vehicles for a smart world.

Job Info

• Job Identification 70313
• Job Category PD Operations and Quality
• Degree Level Bachelor's Degree or equivalent
• Job Schedule Full time