Staff Simulation Engineer, Physics Engineer

Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies

. Own engine performance and numerical robustness, with regression evidence that validated results are preserved .

Posted 11/9/2026full-timeIrvine • California • United StatesLead💰 $171,100 - $226,740 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in developing high-performance C++ simulation software for vehicle dynamics, with a strong focus on numerical methods, reproducibility, and co-simulation standards. Capable of mentoring engineers and setting technical direction while ensuring performance and robustness in simulation environments.

Highest-signal resume keywords

C++ Simulation DevelopmentNumerical Methods ExpertisePerformance OptimizationCo-Simulation StandardsVehicle Dynamics Modeling

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

C++Numerical MethodsIntegration SchemesConstraint SolversFloating-Point ReproducibilityProfilingStatic AnalysisTire ModelingSuspension ModelingMultibody Simulation

Soft Skills

MentoringTechnical Direction

Tools & Technologies

Continuous IntegrationSanitizersStatic Analysis ToolsCo-Simulation Interfaces

Industry Keywords

Mechanical EngineeringAerospace EngineeringComputer EngineeringApplied MathematicsSimulation Software

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

C++

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Own engine performance and numerical robustness, with regression evidence that validated results are preserved
Design and implement multi-fidelity simulation so each study runs at the fidelity its question requires
Extend vehicle-dynamics and subsystem modeling capability, including tires, suspension, driveline, terrain, and sensors
Own reproducibility and performance standards enforced in continuous integration
Set technical direction and document architectural decisions
Mentor engineers
Develop a high-performance, deterministic C++ simulation core for full-vehicle dynamics and subsystem behavior
Couple the simulation core to production controller software through standard co-simulation interfaces

Requirements

What you’ll need

MS/PhD in Mechanical, Aerospace, Computer Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related field — or equivalent demonstrated experience
7+ years building performance-critical numerical or simulation software in modern C++ — or an equivalent demonstrated record
Strong numerical methods: integration schemes, stiff systems, constraint and contact solvers
Profiling and optimization on real workloads
Disciplined use of sanitizers and static analysis
Experience reasoning about floating-point reproducibility across compilers and platforms
Experience with the internals of a multibody or vehicle-dynamics simulation engine
Co-simulation experience (FMI or similar standards)
Tire and suspension modeling knowledge
Open-source contributions to scientific or simulation software
Must be authorized to work in the United States

Benefits

Comp & perks

Annual company performance bonus program
Equity in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Health coverage
Retirement savings
Time off
Family planning programs