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Lear, a global automotive technology leader in Seating and E-Systems, enables superior in-vehicle experiences for consumers around the world. Our diverse team of talented employees in 38 countries is driven by a commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability. Lear is Making every drive better™ by providing the technology for safer, smarter, and more comfortable journeys. Lear, headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, serves every major automaker in the world and ranks #179 on the Fortune 500. 

 

Job Overview

We are looking for a highly skilled Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Engineer with strong experience in automotive seat and restraint system simulations.

The ideal candidate has hands-on expertise with LS-DYNA, HyperWorks, and OptiStruct, and has worked on OEM-level projects, preferably with premium brands such as Mercedes-Benz.

 

You will play a key role in the development, validation, and optimization of automotive seat structures to meet safety, comfort, and regulatory requirements, collaborating closely with design engineers, project managers, and OEM stakeholders.

 

Key Responsibilities

Perform advanced FEA simulations for automotive seat systems (frames, recliners, tracks, headrests, foam, trims, …)

Conduct safety-related simulations, including:

Static & dynamic load cases

FMVSS / ECE / NCAP seat requirements

Crash and sled simulations (LS-DYNA)

Build, modify, and validate FE models using HyperMesh

Run and interpret nonlinear simulations using LS-DYNA

Perform structural optimization using OptiStruct

Correlate simulation results with physical test data

Prepare clear technical reports and presentations for internal teams and OEM customers

Support design optimization and cost/weight reduction initiatives

Participate in OEM technical discussions, reviews, and milestone meetings

Mentor junior CAE engineers when required

 

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field

3–10+ years of hands-on experience in automotive FEA

Strong expertise in:

LS-DYNA

HyperWorks / HyperMesh

OptiStruct

Proven experience in automotive seat or interior system analysis

Prior exposure to OEM projects, preferably Mercedes-Benz or other premium OEMs

Solid understanding of:

Nonlinear material behavior

Contacts, constraints, and failure criteria

Metal, plastic, and foam modeling

Very good spoken and written English

Strong communication and presentation skills

 

Soft Skills & Personal Attributes

Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset

High attention to detail and engineering discipline

Ability to communicate complex technical topics clearly

Comfortable working under tight timelines

Team-oriented with a proactive attitude