F1 Propulsion 1D Simulation Engineer

GMPPU; Concord (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The GM Performance Power Units team in Concord, NC is seeking an expert in engine simulation to develop and maintain physics-based models of combustion engines using GT-Power. The role involves managing multiple projects, providing technical insights and data-driven recommendations for hardware design.

Qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in engineering and 4+ years of experience in propulsion simulation. You’ll play a crucial role in ensuring engine reliability and performance for next-gen power units. Join us for an innovative and rewarding career!

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in propulsion simulation or engine performance analysis.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and heat transfer.
• 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 metrics.
• Simulate operating maps to support performance assessments.

Skills

1D engine simulation

Combustion engines knowledge

Data analysis skills

Python scripting

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Automotive, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

Tools

GT‑Power

1D CFD tools (e.g., WAVE)

Job description

GM Performance Power Units - Concord, NC

Job Summary

The GM Performance Power Units team is seeking an expert in engine simulation that is responsible for developing and maintaining physics‑based, 1D simulation models of combustion engines using GT‑SUITE / GT‑Power. These models are used to predict performance, fuel consumption, heat rejection, and system interactions during the development process.

Specific functions include model building, correlation and evaluation. You will manage multiple projects and provide technical insight into problem solving, leveraging the model results to provide clear, data‑driven recommendations for hardware design and calibration development.

Key Responsibilities

• 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 (e.g., Engineering Physics).
• 4+ 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 Aerospace Engineering, or closely related field with emphasis on IC engines, thermodynamics, or fluid mechanics.
• 7+ 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).

Why Join Us

You’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability and performance of a next‑generation Formula 1 power unit. Our culture rewards precision, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of performance.

Only direct hires need apply to or inquire about job postings at GM Performance Power Units. We are not accepting calls, resumes or applications from recruiting firms at this time.