Contingent 1D Simulation Engineer

American Honda Motor Company, Inc.; Santa Clarita (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

American Honda Motor Company, Inc. is seeking a skilled engineer to develop and maintain engine and propulsion models using GT Power. The role involves correlating models to test data and providing design recommendations.

Applicants should have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and at least 3 years of experience in propulsion simulation. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data analysis tools such as Python are essential.

The candidate will work in a dynamic environment focused on innovation and improvement.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in propulsion simulation or engine performance analysis.
• Strong understanding of combustion engines and thermodynamics.
• Experience with engine dynamometer testing and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain 1D engine and propulsion models in GT Power.
• Correlate models to test data for performance assessments.
• Provide design recommendations based on model results.

Skills

Propulsion simulation

Data analysis

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Automotive, Aerospace Engineering

Tools

GT Power

Python

Job description

What Makes a Honda, Is Who Makes a Honda

Honda has a clear vision for the future, and it’s a joyful one. We are looking for individuals with the skills, courage, persistence, and dreams that will help us reach our future-focused goals.

At our core is innovation. Honda is constantly innovating and developing solutions to drive our business with record success. We strive to be a company that serves as a source of "power" that supports people around the world who are trying to do things based on their own initiative and that helps people expand their own potential. To this end, Honda strives to realize "the joy and freedom of mobility" by developing new technologies and an innovative approach to achieve a "zero environmental footprint."

We are looking for qualified individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, continuous improvement values, and a strong work ethic to join our team.

If your goals and values align with Honda’s, we want you to join our team to Bring the Future!

Job Purpose

• Develop and maintain 1D engine and propulsion models in GT Power including complete intake and exhaust systems.
• Correlate models to test data (dyno/rig/vehicle) for torque, power, air mass, BSFC, temperatures, and pressures; document correlation quality and underlying assumptions.
• Simulate full load and part load operating maps, including steady state sweeps and transient maneuvers, to support performance, drivability, and thermal assessments.
• Perform DOE and optimization studies within GT Suite to explore design and calibration spaces (valve events, boost, turbo sizing, combustion and heat rejection levers, etc.).
• Translate 3D CFD and test insights into 1D model representations, including proper discretization of manifolds, ports, and system components, and appropriate use of loss and heat transfer models.
• Develop and improve standard methods and templates for GT Power model setup, correlation, FRM conversion, and coupled analyses (e.g., GT Power/Converge procedures).
• Process and structure large model and lab data sets into standardized formats for efficient post processing, visualization, and reporting.
• Provide design and calibration recommendations at component and system level (ie. induction, boosting, exhaust, valvetrain interfaces) based on model results and sensitivity analysis.
• Communicate results and trade offs through clear technical reports, presentations, and design reviews with hardware testing, mechanical simulation, calibration, and vehicle integration teams.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Automotive, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in propulsion simulation, virtual engineering, or engine performance analysis, with a primary focus on GT SUITE / GT Power or similar 1D CFD tools (e.g., WAVE).
• Strong fundamental understanding of combustion engines, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer, including how these are represented in 1D models.
• Demonstrated experience building, correlating, and evaluating 1D models used for hardware development, calibration, or vehicle performance prediction.
• Experience with engine dynamometer testing and data analysis
• Proficiency with data analysis and scripting tools (e.g. Python) for post processing, automation, and reporting.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex modeling results to diverse technical and leadership audiences.
• High level of analytical ability, attention to detail, and comfort with ambiguity, especially when defining assumptions and interpreting results for new architectures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in Mechanical, Automotive, or closely related field with emphasis on IC engines, thermodynamics, or fluid mechanics.
• 5+ years of experience with GT Power or similar 1D engine simulation tools, including advanced features (FRM, optimization, coupled models).
• Experience with engine calibration, controls, and model based calibration techniques
• Background in engine testing and development, including correlation of simulation to dyno and/or vehicle data for performance and drivability metrics.
• Familiarity with coupled 1D–3D CFD analyses (e.g., GT Power with STAR CCM+ or CONVERGE) for manifolds / ports.
• Experience establishing and maintaining standard work, templates, and training material for 1D simulation methods within a broader engineering community.
• High level of interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work effectively in cross functional, global teams (hardware, mechanical simulation, testing, calibration, thermal, vehicle integration).

Honda is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected factor.