CAE Model Build Engineer

Tata Technologies; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Tata Technologies is looking for a CAE Model Build Engineer specializing in Full Vehicle modeling in Irvine, California. The role involves leading the full vehicle FE model build, executing model validation, and working closely with other engineers.

The ideal candidate will have 5–10 years of automotive CAE experience, high proficiency in ANSA, and will be responsible for ensuring model integrity across various simulation disciplines.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of experience in the Automotive CAE Domain.
• Hands-on experience with model build across various analysis disciplines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead full vehicle FE model build activities from CAD data to solver-ready models.
• Execute pre-processing, assembly, meshing in ANSA for different analysis.
• Develop and maintain model build templates and automate processes.

Skills

Expert-level proficiency in ANSA

Safety (Crash), Durability, NVH, and Dynamics model build

Working knowledge of solvers (LS-DYNA, Nastran, Abaqus, OptiStruct)

Strong understanding of FE modeling principles

Familiar with material modeling, joints, fasteners, adhesives

Exposure to automation tools or scripting languages (Python, ANSA scripts)

Experience in CAE data management systems

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical / Automotive / Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Teamcenter

SimManager

Job description

At Tata Technologies we make product development dreams a reality by designing, engineering, and validating the products of tomorrow for the world’s leading manufacturers. Due to our continued growth, we are now recruiting for a CAE Model Build Engineer to strengthen our team in Irvine, CA.

Job Title: CAE Model Build Engineer – Full Vehicle (ANSA Expert)

Location: Irvine, CA

Experience: 5–10 years (Automotive CAE Domain)

Duration: Full Time Role/Contract

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced CAE Model Build Engineer with deep expertise in Full Vehicle (FV) model build using ANSA, covering domains such as Crash & Safety, Durability, NVH, and Vehicle Dynamics. The candidate will be responsible for building, validating, and managing large-scale FE models, ensuring accuracy, robustness, and consistency with OEM standards and simulation requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Full Vehicle FE model build activities from CAD data to solver-ready models.
• Execute pre-processing, assembly, meshing, and connections in ANSA for multiple analysis disciplines.
• Work closely with simulation engineers to deliver validated, clean, and consistent models for Safety, Durability, NVH, and Dynamics simulations.
• Develop and maintain model build templates, macros, and automation scripts to enhance productivity and repeatability.
• Conduct model integrity checks (mass balance, connectivity, boundary conditions, material & property validation).
• Interface with Design, CAD, and CAE domain leads to resolve geometry, assembly, and connectivity issues.
• Support solver deck generation (LS-DYNA, Nastran, Abaqus, OptiStruct, etc.) and ensure compliance with project setup guidelines.
• Participate in model correlation and validation exercises with test data where applicable.
• Manage model data, revisions, and documentation within PLM/CAE data management systems (e.g., Teamcenter, SimManager).
• Provide mentoring and technical support to junior engineers on ANSA best practices and model build methodology.

Technical Skills Required

• Expert-level proficiency in ANSA (full vehicle assembly, connections, submodel creation, part management, scripting).
• Hands-on experience with Safety (Crash), Durability (Static/Fatigue), NVH (Modal/Frequency), and Dynamics (Ride & Handling) model build.
• Working knowledge of solvers such as LS-DYNA, Nastran, Abaqus, or OptiStruct.
• Strong understanding of FE modeling principles, element quality checks, contact definitions, and loadcase management.
• Familiar with material modeling, joints, fasteners, adhesives, and spot weld representations.
• Exposure to automation tools or scripting languages (Python, ANSA scripts, tcl).
• Experience in CAE data management systems (Teamcenter, SimManager, or equivalent).

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical / Automotive / Aerospace Engineering.
• Experience with OEM-level full vehicle model integration or supplier-level model build support.
• Knowledge of CAD to CAE workflows, model correlation, and DVP&R processes.
• Familiarity with multi-domain vehicle simulation environments and cross-functional collaboration.
• Prior involvement in CAE harmonization or process automation projects will be a plus.

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and deliver high-quality output under tight timelines.
• Strong documentation and configuration management discipline