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Cae Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CAE Model Build Engineer - Full Vehicle (ANSA Expert) Location: Irvine, CA Onsite Automotive CAE Domain Department: CAE / Virtual Validation / Vehicle Engineering Role Overvie wWe are seeking an ...

We are seeking a CAE Engineer to create innovative end-to-end modeling and simulation solutions with cross-functional team members for simulation users across hardware engineering teams. These ...

CAE Engineer

San Jose, CA

$120K - $249K/yr

We are seeking a CAE Engineer to create innovative end-to-end modeling and simulation solutions with cross-functional team members for simulation users across hardware engineering teams. These ...

In this pivotal leadership role, you will direct a multidisciplinary engineering team performing high-fidelity CAE across Explicit Dynamics (e.g., high-energy chassis impacts, underbody strikes) and ...

Sr. Manager Durability CAE

Irvine, CA · On-site

$196K - $245K/yr

In this pivotal leadership role, you will direct a multidisciplinary engineering team performing high-fidelity CAE across Explicit Dynamics (e.g., high-energy chassis impacts, underbody strikes) and ...

We are the Electrical Simulation CAE Team in Hardware Engineering, and our primary objective is to develop and implement workflows and methodologies that ensure electrical and electromagnetic ...

We are the Electrical Simulation CAE Team in Hardware Engineering, and our primary objective is to develop and implement workflows and methodologies that ensure electrical and electromagnetic ...

CAE Application Engineer Position: Senior CAE Application Engineer Location: Remote Salary Range: 120,000 - 180,000 Company Overview: From start-ups to blue-chips, Saratech (saratech.com) helps ...

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Cae Engineer information

See California salary details

$33

$42

$49

How much do cae engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for cae engineer in California is $42.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.98 and $45.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CAE engineer?

A CAE engineer is an individual that uses computer-aided engineering (CAE) software to test the characteristics of a 3D model, such as the material’s strength, fatigue, and stress limits. While many CAE engineers possess drafting skills as well, this process varies significantly from CAD, as you are analyzing instead of designing. As a CAE engineer, your job duties include collaborating with system engineers and component engineers, using finite element analysis (FEA) software, and providing reports about your findings. The qualifications for a CAE engineering career are a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and several years of engineering experience.

What is a CAE engineer?

A CAE Engineer, or Computer-Aided Engineering Engineer, specializes in using computer software to simulate and analyze engineering tasks such as stress analysis, thermal analysis, and fluid dynamics. They help optimize designs, improve product performance, and reduce the need for physical prototypes by conducting virtual tests and simulations. CAE Engineers work closely with design and manufacturing teams to ensure products meet safety, reliability, and efficiency standards. Their expertise is valuable in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CAE engineer?

To thrive as a CAE Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, mathematics, and computer-aided engineering, often supported by a degree in mechanical or related engineering fields. Expertise in CAE software tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, or HyperMesh, and familiarity with CAD systems and simulation methodologies, are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication make a candidate stand out in this role. These competencies are critical for accurately modeling, analyzing, and optimizing engineering designs to ensure quality and performance in product development.

How does a CAE engineer typically collaborate with other departments during the product development process?

CAE Engineers frequently work in cross-functional teams, collaborating closely with design, manufacturing, and testing departments to ensure that digital simulations accurately reflect real-world conditions. This collaboration involves sharing simulation results, discussing design modifications, and iterating models based on feedback. Strong communication skills are essential, as CAE Engineers must clearly explain technical findings and suggest solutions to non-CAE specialists. Effective teamwork helps streamline the product development cycle and improves overall product quality.

What is the difference between Cae Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectCae EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related fields; proficiency in CAD/CAE softwareBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering; knowledge of design and manufacturing
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, simulation labs, engineering teamsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, R&D departments
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, product designManufacturing, automotive, energy, aerospace
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Cae Engineers and Mechanical Engineers work in engineering environments, Cae Engineers specialize in simulation, analysis, and software tools to optimize designs. Mechanical Engineers focus on designing, testing, and manufacturing mechanical systems. The roles often overlap, but Cae Engineers are more software and simulation-focused, whereas Mechanical Engineers handle broader mechanical design tasks.

Is CAE engineering in demand?

CAE engineering is in high demand across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, as companies seek to improve product design and reduce testing costs through simulation and analysis. Skilled CAE engineers with expertise in finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics, and relevant software tools are sought after, especially in organizations focusing on innovation and efficiency.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cae Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cae Engineer jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Cae Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cae Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cae Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cae Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Cae Engineer jobs in CA?

For Cae Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cae Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,060 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description


Job Title: CAE Model Build Engineer – Full Vehicle (ANSA Expert)

Location: Irvine, CA

Onsite

Automotive CAE Domain

Department: CAE / Virtual Validation / Vehicle Engineering



Role Overvie

wWe are seeking an experienced CAE Model Build Engineer with deep expertise in Full Vehicle (FV) model build using ANSA, covering domains such as Crash & Safety, Durability, NVH, and Vehicle Dynamics. The candidate will be responsible for building, validating, and managing large-scale FE models, ensuring accuracy, robustness, and consistency with OEM standards and simulation requirements


.
Key Responsibiliti

  • esLead Full Vehicle FE model build activities from CAD data to solver-ready model
  • s.Execute pre-processing, assembly, meshing, and connections in ANSA for multiple analysis discipline
  • s.Work closely with simulation engineers to deliver validated, clean, and consistent models for Safety, Durability, NVH, and Dynamics simulation
  • s.Develop and maintain model build templates, macros, and automation scripts to enhance productivity and repeatabilit
  • y.Conduct model integrity checks (mass balance, connectivity, boundary conditions, material & property validation
  • ).Interface with Design, CAD, and CAE domain leads to resolve geometry, assembly, and connectivity issue
  • s.Support solver deck generation (LS-DYNA, Nastran, Abaqus, OptiStruct, etc.) and ensure compliance with project setup guideline
  • s.Participate in model correlation and validation exercises with test data where applicabl
  • e.Manage model data, revisions, and documentation within PLM/CAE data management systems (e.g., Teamcenter, SimManager
  • ).Provide mentoring and technical support to junior engineers on ANSA best practices and model build methodolog


y.
Technical Skills Requi

  • redExpert-level proficiency in ANSA (full vehicle assembly, connections, submodel creation, part management, scriptin
  • g).Hands-on experience with Safety (Crash), Durability (Static/Fatigue), NVH (Modal/Frequency), and Dynamics (Ride & Handling) model bui
  • ld.Working knowledge of solvers such as LS-DYNA, Nastran, Abaqus, or OptiStru
  • ct.Strong understanding of FE modeling principles, element quality checks, contact definitions, and loadcase manageme
  • nt.Familiar with material modeling, joints, fasteners, adhesives, and spot weld representatio
  • ns.Exposure to automation tools or scripting languages (Python, ANSA scripts, tc
  • l).Experience in CAE data management systems (Teamcenter, SimManager, or equivalen


t).
Preferred Qualificat

  • ionsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical / Automotive / Aerospace Engineer
  • ing.Experience with OEM-level full vehicle model integration or supplier-level model build supp
  • ort.Knowledge of CAD to CAE workflows, model correlation, and DVP&R proces
  • ses.Familiarity with multi-domain vehicle simulation environments and cross-functional collaborat
  • ion.Prior involvement in CAE harmonization or process automation projects will be a p


lus.
Soft S

  • killsStrong analytical and problem-solving abi
  • lity.Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration sk
  • ills.Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and deliver high-quality output under tight timel
  • ines.Strong documentation and configuration management disci


pline