Thermal 1D VDDV Engineer

General Motors; Warren (MI); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

General Motors seeks a VTM-1D Thermal VDDV Engineer to advance 1D thermal modeling and virtual validation for current and future vehicle programs. You will apply engineering judgment to non-routine challenges and collaborate across systems, modules, and suppliers in a hybrid work model.

You will model thermal behavior, drive data-based decisions, and contribute to tool development and process improvements within the VDDV workflow, while mentoring junior engineers and communicating findings to

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Engineering.
• 2+ years of experience in powertrain cooling or A/C system analysis.
• 1D thermal system modeling experience.
• Strong understanding of thermal systems and components, including performance integration and model assumptions/limitations.
• Proficiency with GT‑Power, MATLAB, and related system modeling tools.
• DFSS Black Belt certification.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across functions.

Responsibilities

• Thermal System Modeling & Analysis.
• Execute 1D thermal system simulations to support vehicle thermal sizing, development, and virtual validation.
• Apply knowledge of thermal physics, system behavior, and component interactions to identify issues and recommend solutions.
• Independently select appropriate analysis methods within established procedures, standards, and guidelines.
• Support development, enhancement, and application of VDDV tools, methods, and standard work for all-virtual development.
• Collaborate with System and Module Teams, thermal component and subsystem suppliers, propulsion systems teams, validation, calibration, and software development teams.
• Identify and propose opportunities for process improvement, efficiency gains, and risk reduction within the VDDV workflow.
• Communicate analysis results, risks, and recommendations clearly to peers and leadership.

Skills

1D thermal modeling

GT-Power

MATLAB

DFSS Black Belt

Interpersonal communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s in Engineering

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

Job Description

At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We’re turning today’s impossible into tomorrow’s standard —from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.

Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.

The Role

The VTM-1D Thermal VDDV Engineer is responsible for the execution of 1D thermal system modeling and virtual validation in support of General Motors’ current and future vehicle programs. This role applies independent technical judgment to non‑routine engineering challenges and supports the continued advancement of GM’s vehicle thermal virtual development and validation (VDDV) capabilities. The position operates under general supervision, independently completing most standard work and escalating complex issues as appropriate. Impact is primarily within the vehicle thermal VDDV domain, with periodic cross‑functional collaboration across adjacent engineering teams.

What You’ll Do

• Thermal System Modeling & Analysis
• Execute 1D thermal system simulations to support vehicle thermal sizing, development, and virtual validation. Support design decisions through technical influence and data‑based recommendations.
• Apply knowledge of thermal physics, system behavior, and component interactions to identify issues and recommend solutions.
• Independently select appropriate analysis methods within established procedures, standards, and guidelines.
• Support development, enhancement, and application of VDDV tools, methods, and standard work aligned with an “all‑virtual” development approach.
• Contribute to capability growth in areas such as model robustness, modularization, optimization, and data‑driven methods.
• Apply established and emerging techniques to improve model accuracy, efficiency, and repeatability.
• Collaborate with System and Module Teams, thermal component and subsystem suppliers, propulsion systems teams, validation, calibration, and software development teams.
• Identify and propose opportunities for process improvement, efficiency gains, and risk reduction within the VDDV workflow.
• Proactively anticipate needs within own work area and elevate potential issues or roadblocks when necessary.
• Communicate analysis results, risks, and recommendations clearly to peers and leadership.
• Provide technical guidance and training to less experienced engineers on analysis tools, methods, and standard practices.
• Serve as a technical resource within the VTM-1D thermal VDDV team while continuing to learn from senior subject‑matter experts.

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Engineering.
• 2+ years of experience in powertrain cooling or A/C system analysis.
• 1D thermal system modeling experience.
• Strong understanding of thermal systems and components, including performance integration and model assumptions/limitations.
• Demonstrated ability to independently resolve routine technical problems within established engineering frameworks.
• Proficiency with GT‑Power, MATLAB, and related system modeling tools.
• DFSS Black Belt certification.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across functions.

Behavioral Expectations

• Demonstrates a bias for action while balancing speed with sound engineering judgment.
• Communicates candidly, raises risks early, and proposes actionable solutions.
• Collaborates effectively across teams and levels, influencing outcomes through technical expertise rather than authority.
• Adapts to changing priorities, tools, and processes with resilience.
• Acts consistently with GM Values, Behaviors, and ethical standards.

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc). 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.

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us

We believe we all must make a choice every day – individually and collectively – to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.

Benefits Overview

From day one, we’re looking out for your well-being–at work and at home–so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

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