CAE Engineer, Electric Drive Technology - Band H

Purpose of the Role:

Reporting to the EDT CAE Manager, this role will support the design and system engineers to define the electric drive hardware and controls software required to deliver the electric drive performance, efficiency, and drivability targets. The CAE Engineer will develop the simulation methodology, models and test methods used in the team to ensure that the electric drive component targets are consistently delivered in an integrated manner with minimum risk to the business.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Supporting the definition of the hardware and software specifications for the Electric Drive, so that the Electric Drive Performance, Efficiency, and Drivability attributes are met
  • Working with EDT Development, Controls, and vehicle attribute teams to develop simulation models and communication methods that result in an integrated approach to powertrain and vehicle attribute delivery
  • Develop EDT CAE core competencies including tool sets, software, and best practice techniques
  • Develop additional EDT CAE capabilities as required to bring value-added analysis ‘in-house’ where possible
  • Perform 3D mechanical / structural analysis and model validation using a range of methods and techniques for Battery (ESS) and other EDT components such as eAxles, eMotors, Inverters, Chargers, Converters, etc.
  • Using simulation models to perform robust engineering investigations and use output to influence engineering designs and/or business decisions
  • Data processing and reporting
  • Development and maintenance of data / model management and version control systems
  • Supporting project activities to guarantee project delivery in line with MDP and gateway deliverables.
  • Develop test methodologies to improve data validation capabilities at McLaren
  • Preparation and presentation of material to support external and internal project status reviews

Knowledge, skills and experience

  • Experience in mechanical / structural analysis for electric drive components, using 3D tools, such as Abaqus, HyperMesh, OptiStruct, Ansys, Nastran or equivalent
  • Experience in Crash, Shock, Vibration and Fatigue analysis for electric drive components such as ESS, eAxles, eMotors and Power Electronics components.
  • Good understanding of integration of electric drive components into vehicle systems
  • Ability to utilize electrical analysis tools to understand suitability of electric drive systems, and draw out fundamental causes and effects
  • Experience of a simulation, analysis & development environment – model architecture definition, tool-chain setup, model, and boundary condition set up, data processing and reporting
  • Understanding of fluids and thermal modelling for electric drive components using 1D and/or 3D tools, such as Matlab / Simulink, Star-CCM+, COMSOL or equivalent
  • Knowledge of state of the art electric drive simulation and analysis tools, techniques, processes, and test methodologies
  • Knowledge of electric drive component testing, test set up, instrumentation, logging, fault analysis, data processing and reporting
  • Knowledge of high performance hybrid / electric powertrains
  • A good level of technical knowledge of vehicle simulation and test methodologies
  • Adopts a creative & thoughtful approach to development and solving engineering problems with good attention to detail
  • Experience of the following software (or equivalent) is desirable:
    • Abaqus, HyperMesh, OptiStruct, Ansys, Nastran
    • Matlab / Simulink
    • Star-CCM+
    • Git / Sourcetree
    • Python
  • PC literate and at ease with MS Office products

Qualifications and Training

  • Mechanical, Electrical/Electronic or Automotive Engineering Degree 2:1 or above

Personal Attributes:

  • A passion for high performance electric drive engineering
  • Good team skills, willingness to work cross-functionally with excellent communication skills
  • Well organised and independent – able to work constructively with minimal supervision
  • A positive, proactive attitude with a high level of self-motivation to deliver excellence
  • An engaging mind, open to new problems outside their normal comfort zone
  • Adopts a creative & thoughtful approach to solving engineering problems with good attention to detail
  • A willingness to engage in debate and discussion, and to listen and see others’ points of view
  • Ability to communicate clearly with design and development groups
  • Excellent communicator and ability to lead a small, focused team
  • Ambitious and self-reliant - intrinsically self-motivated
  • Delivery focused – with demonstrable track record of on-time delivery
  • Capable of representing a world class automotive brand
  • Able to remain focused under pressure

Notes

All employees must ensure compliance with the Company Health and Safety Policy, and all relevant other statutory Health and Safety legislation.

This job description may not detail some less major duties allocated to the post holder nor cover duties of a similar nature commensurate with the role, which may from time to time be reasonably required by the relevant manager.