Job Description

Hybrid: This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to Warren, MI three times per week, at minimum.

The Role

Energy and Propulsion Systems research is aimed at driving propulsion and vehicle efficiency, cost, and performance improvements. Research also focuses on advancing vehicle and propulsion systems to target enterprise cost reduction through warranty improvement and engineering development efficiency.

Key technical areas:

Develop and execute Aero CFD simulations to analyze and optimize vehicle aerodynamic performance.

Develop passive and active aerodynamic technologies to improve aero performance

Collaborate with cross-functional teams in design, engineering, and data science to deliver aerodynamic solutions.

Conduct post-processing and visualization of simulation data to extract actionable insights.

Support the development of digital twins and simulation-guided design frameworks.

Integrate AI/ML techniques to accelerate simulation workflows and enable predictive modeling.

Develop and execute Multi-Disciplinary Optimization and Design Integration (Aero/Thermal) – leveraging cross-functional approaches to enhance system-level efficiency and performance

Optimize vehicle thermal systems architecture for electric, hybrid and conventional (ICE) vehicles.

Investigate electric, hybrid and ICE vehicle propulsion systems and their interactions with the thermal systems - propulsion system cooling and heating requirements.

Propose innovations in the refrigeration cycle and its applications to vehicle thermal systems

Optimize passenger cabin modes of operation (heating/cooling/airflow)

Balance the impact of size of front-end cooling (radiator/ condenser) on thermal capacity and impact on aero (Drag).

Successful candidates will bring multi-physics expertise alongside cutting-edge optimization and AI techniques. You are inquisitive, driven, and an excellent collaborator and communicator. You have a strong passion for applied research and extensive knowledge in advanced propulsion systems, energy, electrical, thermal, and mechanical analysis, and physics-aided optimization techniques, including the latest in artificial intelligence / machine learning (AI/ML) approaches. You will identify, develop, and implement research and technology with disruptive value to GM in the key areas identified above.

What You’ll Do

The role requires covering a wide-ranging, diverse set of topics aimed at improving propulsion and vehicle system efficiency, cost, and quality. This includes the need for significant exploration and research in:

Physics-guided optimization to develop multi-functional designs to achieve robust integration and drive out cost

Support development of research strategy and technology roadmaps

Supervise prototype implementation activities in benches and vehicles

Scout and evaluate innovative technologies for the specified research areas

Effectively communicate results and progress in written and oral form

Document results of individual and team efforts for internal and external publications or patents

Procure and manage any required external contractor support

#LI-LP2



Additional Job Description

What You’ll Need (Required Qualifications)

Ph.D. in Mechanical, Electrical, Controls, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field with demonstrated research capability or equivalent background

Up to 3 years of relevant industry experience

Strong theoretical foundation and practical experience in aero/thermal system optimization, and propulsion systems integration

Deep understanding of vehicle aerodynamics, including drag reduction, downforce, and flow control.

Experience in design optimization workflows using CFD and ML (PowerFLOW and STAR-CCM+)

Experience with AI/ML frameworks like Navasto, Neural Concept, Nvidia DoMINO, and techniques such as regression, classification, and deep learning.

Strong foundation in physics-based modeling for continuous and discrete systems using first principles

Experience with multi-disciplinary optimization techniques (model-based and data-driven)

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate across team

This job may be eligible for relocation benefits

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

PhD with 3-5 years of industry experience

Experience in application of advanced research and technology to the following automotive systems: internal combustion propulsion, high voltage battery, electromechanical actuators, power electronics, electrical systems

Hardware hands-on experience highly recommended, including but not limited to experience in dSpace rapid prototyping, ETAS tools

GM DOES NOT PROVIDE IMMIGRATION-RELATED SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE. DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS ROLE IF YOU WILL NEED GM IMMIGRATION SPONSORSHIP NOW OR IN THE FUTURE. THIS INCLUDES DIRECT COMPANY SPONSORSHIP, ENTRY OF GM AS THE IMMIGRATION EMPLOYER OF RECORD ON A GOVERNMENT FORM, AND ANY WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIRING A WRITTEN SUBMISSION OR OTHER IMMIGRATION SUPPORT FROM THE COMPANY (e.g., H-1B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc.)



About GM

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Why Join Us 

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