Propulsion Researcher

General Motors Corporation; Warren (MI); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

General Motors Corporation in Warren, Michigan is seeking a Propulsion Researcher with a PhD or near-PhD to generate innovative ideas, plan experiments, and validate research in propulsion for hybrid and electric powertrains.

You will conduct data collection, publish results, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet project objectives while maintaining rigorous safety and documentation standards.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical or Controls, or related discipline with research experience.
• New PhD graduate to 1–3 years of work experience accepted.
• Strong foundation in propulsion architectures for hybrid, plug-in hybrid, EV and conventional powertrains.
• Experience with physics-based modeling and vehicle energy analysis.
• Familiarity with lab/test procedures and safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Generate innovative ideas, establish technical plans and lead experiments.
• Conduct data collection to validate research and publish findings.
• Collaborate with divisional staff to meet project objectives and build partnerships.
• Prepare technical reports and external publications; contribute to invention records.

Skills

Propulsion systems knowledge

Physics-based modeling

Vehicle energy analysis

AI/ML frameworks

Multi-disciplinary optimization

Lab/dyno experience

Strong communication

Education

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical/Controls

Master’s with ongoing Ph.D. studies

Tools

dSPACE

CFD/CAE tools

1D modeling tools

Digital twins

Job description

## Propulsion ResearcherApplyremote type: Hybridlocations: Warren, Michigan, United States of Americatime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: JR-202616451**Job Description**Advanced (PhD) degree in science/engineering disciplines. New PhD grad up to 1-3 years work experience. Individual Contributor. Generate innovative ideas, suggest new project areas, and establish technical plans. Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas in developing. Write timely and high-quality research reports, external publications, and records of invention to document new ideas and research results in your area of research. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry and technical developments to grow core technical skills and competencies. Establish relationships and develop partners with divisional staffs to meet project objectives Observe and ensure support personnel proper safety practices and ensure personal protective equipment is in working order. Communicate laboratory hazards appropriately. Execute technical and special assignments. Assist lab management in identifying mega-trends in technology and business strategies in the automotive sector. Contribute responses to threats and opportunities. Represent GM effectively to the external technical and business communities. Participate in technical discussions and reviews as an expert in your field. Grow and diversify personal skills and competency base. In-depth knowledge of the state-of-the-art research in specialized areas. Consistently demonstrate innovative thinking and strong partnership. Strong verbal and written communication skillsNew Phd Graduate, 1-3 years experience, individual contributor· U.S. Person Status: This position is subject to export control regulations and requires the candidate to be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, asylee, or refugee).· Education:* Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical or Controls Engineering, or a related discipline with demonstrated research experience, or* Master’s degree in a relevant field with ongoing Ph.D. studies.· Experience: 0–3 years of relevant industry or research experience.· Technical Expertise:* Strong foundation in vehicle propulsion systems, including propulsion architectures for hybrid, plug-in hybrid, electric and conventional vehicle powertrains.* Strong background in physics‐based modeling of continuous and discrete systems using first‐principles approaches.* Proficiency in vehicle energy analysis, including assessment of sub-component or sub-system impact on vehicle efficiency, losses and vehicle fuel economy and range.* Familiarity with vehicle test procedures and standard drive cycles used for vehicle fuel economy/ range and performance assessment.* Knowledge of power transfer mechanisms commonly used in propulsion systems, including electrically variable transmissions, step gear and automatic transmissions, final drives etc.* Knowledge of propulsion components, including engines, electric motors and batteries and their impact on the propulsion system.* Familiarity with the use of any 1D modeling tool for vehicle energy assessment.* Hands on experience with common prototyping software (e.g. dSPACE) and lab/ dyno experience related to propulsion components or vehicle testing.* Experience with design optimization workflows using CFD and CAE methods.* Working knowledge of AI/ML frameworks and methods, including regression, classification, deep learning, use of digital twins, reinforcement learning.* Strong background in physics‐based modeling of continuous and discrete systems using first‐principles approaches.* Experience with multi‐disciplinary optimization (model‐based and data‐driven).· Professional Skills:* Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams.* Demonstrated ability to innovate and operate effectively in environments with ambiguity or evolving requirements.* Self‐motivated, proactive, and capable of driving independent work.This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}.This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.