D&R Engineer- Exteriors

VP D&R Engineer- Exteriors

• Support Body Exterior requirements relating to the Exterior Trim performance using CAE
• Support model creation and deliver analysis results on time.
• Support Design and Release (D&R) engineers and Attribute requests for design confirmation and direction.
• Work to improve CAE to test correlation, develop ongoing method improvements.

1. Key Criteria for Position

The candidate must:

• Conduct FE analysis to simulate Ford design requirements ranging from; stiffness, strength and fatigue life predictions for Body Exterior Trim systems

  • Issue resolution-using CAE to assist with establishing root cause and corrective actions to achieve performance targets and support feasibility.

  • Support TVM and OPD request for Exterior trim assessments for relevant changes requested.

  • Follow CAE model storage and reporting per Global CAE record retention guidelines

• Work with Core Modelling team to develop model content inputs and mesh criterion requirements for FE model generation for relevant GPDS milestones.

  • Establish material property data availability and request additional data or testing when required.

  • Support timing for 1st cut analysis completion and raising issues using appropriate issue tracking systems.

  • Attend Project Team meetings to assist with system design/development.

  • Work with test groups to ensure alignment between analytical and physical prototype test set-up such as; loading, boundary conditions, material properties and geometry are consistent.

  • Support Exterior TDR meetings as required to.

• Support Global Tech Club to ensure latest methodologies are applied and suggestions from local learnings are shared for method improvements.

1. Preferred Previous experiences/ competencies for Role

• Confident in leading a team through design issue resolution stages (concept to launch)
• Clear communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work both individually and in teams
• Strong drive for results
• Focus on Customer satisfaction

1. Familiarity with lab based testing techniques along with an understanding of limitations with physical testing related to instrumentation, repeatability and statistical significance.

2. Experience with CAE software codes such as Abaqus, Nastran, LS-Dyna and pre/post processors Hyperworks or Ansa.

3. Strong knowledge of materials namely; plastics, metallic and adhesives.

4. Knowledge of manufacturing requirements related to plastic tool design and joining methods.

5. Experience in static, dynamic and thermal structural analysis. Ability to identify weaknesses with design and provide realistic corrective actions

1. Professional development expected in position.

• Business acumen – understand financial drivers behind Body Exterior related system selection and key business metrics which Product Development impact that drive Ford Motor Company's profitability.
• Conflict Resolution & Team-building skills
• Innovation mindset
• Strong interpersonal communication and presentation skills of technical data to wide audience of differing engineering knowledge.

• A strong understanding of design verification and process validation
• Working level familiarity with Ford Global Product Development System (GPDS) and awareness of milestone deliverables relating to Virtual Verification assessments
• Able to use Ford issue reporting/tracking tools (AIMs 3DX or E2KS)
• Able to use APDM for CAE model and report storage.
• Establish communication channels with counterparts in other Ford PD centers