Research Engineer – Catia Application Developer

Ford Motor Company

Research Engineer developing integrated manufacturing applications at Ford Motor Company. Utilizing Catia for applying computational mechanics and automating data-driven CAD workflows.

Posted 6/25/2026full-timeDearborn • Missouri • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $86,600 - $144,900 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Python

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Apply 3DEXPERIENCE (3DX)/Catia CAA tools using C++ and Python to create custom architect linkage programs to automate data flow between simulation solvers (Hypermesh, LS-DYNA, AutoForm) and CAD environments.
Ensure developed tools and data pipelines are robust and computationally efficient, minimizing latency and maximizing throughput for large-scale simulation data.
Lead statistical sensitivity studies and Design of Experiments (DOE) to optimize manufacturing robustness. Validate the accuracy and performance of 3DX implementations.
Partner with Ford subject matter experts in forming, joining, and surface science to develop a unified digital twin for stamping, structural casting, and coating workflows.
Streamline simulation run-times and automate data processing to enable 100% in-house feasibility validation and rapid design iterations.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Material Science and Engineering
2+ years of experience in industry and graduate study in application development using 3DExperience Catia CAA RADE
Highly proficient in 3DEXPERIENCE (3DX)/Catia CAA tools using C++ with experience using Python and MATLAB for linking disparate data formats
Knowledge of virtual manufacturing using CAE suites such as Ansys, Abaqus, LS-DYNA, or Nastran
Strong foundation in Solid Mechanics (elasticity, plasticity), material deformation, and thermal-mechanical behavior.
Deep understanding of stress-strain behavior, anisotropy in sheet metal, and phase transformations during welding or baking
Proficiency of Monte Carlo simulations and Six Sigma principles to handle "variation" as a statistical input rather than a single deterministic value.
Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing to manage dimensional "stack-ups."

Benefits

Comp & perks

Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service
A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

C++PythonMATLAB3DEXPERIENCE (3DX)Catia CAAHypermeshLS-DYNAAutoFormMonte Carlo simulationsSix Sigma