Entry-Level Defense Modeling & Simulation Scientist

General Motors; Warren (MI); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Security clearance support

Job summary

General Motors' Vehicle Defense Research group seeks an experienced research scientist to lead a team and provide defense domain expertise across modeling, simulation and applied research for defense applications within GM's program. You will guide research planning, drive impact, and collaborate with external partners to transition outcomes into vehicle and software applications for Defense.

You will lead research, coordinate with R&D and Defense teams, and maintain expertise in emerging

Qualifications

• Pursuit of an advanced degree (Masters or PhD) in Engineering.
• Graduating between August 2026 and June 2027.
• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance.
• Experience with defense acquisition and program leadership.
• Knowledge of FAR/DFARS, CUI, and ITAR.
• Experience in defense modeling and simulation.
• Experience with defense research and engineering and vehicle ground tests.
• Modeling/simulation experience in autonomous systems, vehicle performance, or powertrains.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research with a team of scientists, driving innovation and execution.
• Define and manage defense research programs including scope and direction.
• Align research priorities with GM needs through cross‑functional collaboration.
• Strengthen partnerships with universities, national labs, and defense agencies.
• Prepare technical reports and publish findings; document inventions.
• Assess R&D projects for Defense applications and suggest revisions.
• Propose new defense and automotive research topics.
• Lead technical reviews and communicate progress across GM.
• Maintain knowledge of emerging defense technologies and trends.
• Support the transition of defense research into production programs.

Skills

Defense research

Modeling & simulation

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Requirements analysis

Education

Master's or PhD in Engineering

Job description

General Motors' Vehicle Defense Research group seeks an experienced research scientist to lead a team and provide defense domain expertise across modeling, simulation and applied research for defense applications within GM's program. You will guide research planning, drive impact, and collaborate with external partners to transition outcomes into vehicle and software applications for Defense.

You will lead research, coordinate with R&D and Defense teams, and maintain expertise in emerging