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Crash Simulation Engineer Jobs in Waterford, WI (NOW HIRING)

Crash Simulation Engineer information

See Waterford, WI salary details

$37.9K

$119.8K

$185K

How much do crash simulation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for crash simulation engineer in Waterford, WI is $119,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,300.00 and $142,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a crash simulation engineer do?

A Crash Simulation Engineer uses computer modeling and simulation software to analyze how vehicles behave during collisions. They help predict the impact of crashes on vehicle structure and passenger safety, allowing manufacturers to improve design before building physical prototypes. Their work is crucial for meeting safety standards and regulations, as well as reducing development costs and time. Crash Simulation Engineers often collaborate with design, testing, and safety teams to ensure vehicles are both safe and efficient.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crash simulation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crash Simulation Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering or a related field, with expertise in finite element analysis (FEA) and crash dynamics. Familiarity with simulation tools such as LS-DYNA, HyperMesh, and CATIA, along with relevant certifications in simulation software, is highly valuable. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help convey complex simulation results and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These competencies are essential for ensuring vehicle safety, compliance with regulations, and the successful integration of crashworthiness into the design process.

What is the difference between Crash Simulation Engineer vs Finite Element Analyst?

AspectCrash Simulation EngineerFinite Element Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related fields; knowledge of CAE softwareBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related fields; expertise in finite element analysis software
Work EnvironmentAutomotive or aerospace R&D labs, design teams, testing facilitiesEngineering firms, research institutions, manufacturing companies
Industry UsagePrimarily in automotive safety, crashworthiness, and structural integrityBroadly in structural analysis, product design, and failure prediction

The Crash Simulation Engineer focuses on developing and running crash tests using specialized software to improve vehicle safety. In contrast, the Finite Element Analyst performs detailed structural analyses across various industries. While both roles require knowledge of CAE tools and similar credentials, the Crash Simulation Engineer specializes in crash scenarios, making their work more specific to automotive safety testing.

What are the typical challenges faced by crash simulation engineers when integrating simulation results with real-world crash test data?

Crash Simulation Engineers often encounter challenges in aligning simulation results with actual crash test outcomes due to factors like material variability, model accuracy, and real-world unpredictability. Bridging this gap requires close collaboration with test engineers, iterative refinement of finite element models, and thorough validation processes. Staying updated with the latest simulation software and continually improving modeling techniques are essential to accurately predict crash performance and ensure vehicle safety compliance.
Infographic showing various Crash Simulation Engineer job openings in Waterford, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,805 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Senior Structural & Thermal FEA Engineer

TiltEdge Solutions LLC

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$90K - $100K/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position: Senior Structural & Thermal FEA Engineer
Work Location: Milwaukie, WI
Duration: Fulltime/Direct Hire
 
Job Description:
  • MS/MTech in Mechanical Engineering any other relevant disciplines
  • 3+ years FEA specifically experience with ANSA and ABAQUS tools
  • Mechanical & Thermal Modeling and simulation skills
  • Good working experience/exposure in Mechanical system design using FEA simulations related to crash, crush, mechanical shock and vibration analysis
  • Experience with Li-Ion battery systems is desired, specifically regarding thermal management and mechanical design
  • OEM Automotive/Tier 1 experience with systems/assemblies is highly desirable
  • Strong Communication and organizational skills
  • Provide expert thermal management system designs and guidance to facilitate the development of Lead acid, Li-Ion, Super Capacitor battery cells and battery packs
  • Provide knowledge for defining and executing FEA simulations to validate battery design concepts regarding mechanical robustness
  • Conduct, make iterations, or oversee other engineers for FEA and CFD analysis, validation testing, and result interpretation in the areas of Vibration Durability, Mechanical Shock, Crashworthiness, and General Structural Engineering.
  • Provide technical guidance to cross functional teams as needed and also have offshore experience
  • Assist in the assembly and test of battery systems or prototypes