Requisition SummaryThe PACCAR Technical Center is seeking an experienced
Senior Structural & Dynamics CAE Engineer to drive innovation in heavy-duty truck development. You will leverage advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and vehicle dynamics simulation to deliver best-in-class durability, ride quality, handling, and NVH performance.
In this role, you'll partner directly with Kenworth and Peterbilt engineering teams to predict design viability, validate concepts through simulation-to-test correlation, and translate complex technical findings into actionable recommendations. You'll balance technical excellence with project leadership-managing timelines, and cross-functional resources while staying at the forefront of emerging vehicle technologies (electrification, autonomous systems, alternative fuels).
The ideal candidate combines 7+ years of CAE expertise with strong analytical skills, proven project management ability, and a commitment to continuous process improvement in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Job Functions / Responsibilities- Execute comprehensive FEA analysis across components, assemblies, and full-vehicle platforms using industry-standard tools (ABAQUS, Optistruct, LSDYNA).
- Develop and validate complex multi-body dynamics models (ADAMS, Motionview, Simpack) to support load case development and vehicle dynamics analysis.
- Perform advanced fatigue and durability life predictions using specialized calculators (nCode, FE-Safe) with rigorous correlation to physical testing data.
- Support model setup, meshing, and post-processing activities using HyperMesh/HyperView or similar tools.
- Collaborate with validation teams to define data acquisition plan, review measured data and provide simulation feedback.
- Own multi-project execution end-to-end, coordinating resources, managing dependencies, and ensuring on-time, on-budget delivery.
- Proactively identify and mitigate project risks; adapt to shifting priorities and emerging requirements.
- Synthesize simulation results into clear, compelling narratives for engineering stakeholders at all levels.
- Deliver evidence-based design recommendations with quantified trade-offs and risk assessments.
- Author comprehensive technical reports documenting methodology, validation approaches, results, and lessons learned.
- Champion best-in-class simulation practices, identify opportunities to refine correlation methods, tools, and processes.
- Stay current with industry advancements in CAE, AI/ML-assisted optimization, and digital engineering.
- Support development of next-generation vehicle technologies: battery electric vehicles (BEVs), autonomous driving systems, alternative fuel powertrains, and advanced suspension architectures.
Qualifications- 10+ years of engineering experience
- Experience with structural CAE, durability, or vehicle dynamics
- Experience with nonlinear FEA (ABAQUS, LS-DYNA, or similar)
- Experience with pre/post-processing tools (HyperMesh, HyperView, or equivalent)
- Understanding of fatigue and durability analysis methodologies
- Experience correlating CAE with test data
EducationBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Paccar BenefitsAs a U.S. PACCAR employee, you have a full range of benefit options including:
- Competitive salary and 401k with up to a 5% company match
- Fully funded pension plan that provides monthly benefits after retirement
- Comprehensive paid time off - Minimum of 10 paid vacation days, 12 paid holidays, and sick leave
- Tuition reimbursement for continued education
- Medical, dental, and vision plans for you and your family
- Flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings account (HSA)
- Paid short-and long-term disability program
- Life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance
- EAP services including wellness plans, estate planning, financial counseling and more
- Global Fortune 500 company with a wide array of growth and development opportunities
- Work alongside experienced goal-oriented colleagues recognized as experts in their field
Additional Job Board InformationThe salary range for Senior Structural and Dynamics CAE Engineer is $119,100- $186,300 annually. Additionally, this role is eligible for a full range of benefit options listed above. This is also eligible for a holiday gift.
