Freelance Simulation Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

This role is open as a hybrid position in any of the following locations: Canonsburg, PA, Evanston, IL, or Lebanon, NH.

At Ansys, part of Synopsys, we're the global leader in engineering simulation software, helping innovative companies solve complex design challenges. Our cutting-edge solutions power advancements across industries, from aerospace to consumer electronics. Join us and help shape the future of technology.

You are a passionate and analytical R&D engineer who thrives at the intersection of AI/ML and 3D discrete geometry processing. With a strong foundation in engineering, computer graphics, computational geometry, or mathematics, you are ready to tackle complex problems in simulation model creation and discretization. Your expertise in AI/ML for geometry processing allows you to see creative solutions where others see barriers. You are deeply curious, continually seeking new ways to simplify and automate mesh generation. One focus area is HPC and developing and implementing algorithms on clusters of GPUs, and topics of special interest are surface reconstruction and geometry simplification, and Delaunay meshing. Knowledge and experience of AI/ML, in particular RL, to augment and optimize discrete geometry algorithms is highly desirable. Another area of interest is the use of LLM and LVM/VLM to create simulation models starting from CAD and other data defining analysis intent. Hands-on experience from network design and fine tuning of reasoning based LLM and LVM/VLM models is advantageous. Your interest and expertise will decide on focus area and work assignments. Collaboration energizes you, and you communicate your ideas clearly and effectively across diverse teams and geographies. You are comfortable working in Python, C, and C++, and you enjoy engaging in all stages of software development—from initial planning and research to implementation and evolution. Your strong analytical skills and ability to overcome obstacles make you a natural fit for an innovative team by pushing the boundaries of simulation technology. You bring a unique blend of technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and a drive to contribute to impactful projects. You value continuous learning, embrace new challenges, and are motivated by the opportunity to build advanced tools that empower engineers, researchers, and designers worldwide.

Researching, designing, and implementing algorithms for 3D geometry processing and mesh generation incorporating AI/ML to increase automation and robustness, albeit not necessarily accuracy.

Developing innovative solutions for surface reconstruction, Delaunay meshing, feature classification, shape analysis, and model simplification using state-of-the-art techniques.

Collaborating closely with the meshing software development team to plan, create, and evolve simulation software capabilities.

Writing efficient, maintainable code in Python and C/C++ for production-grade simulation tools.

Analyzing simulation models and discretization workflows to identify opportunities for automation and simplification.

Participating in code reviews, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional brainstorming sessions to foster team growth and innovation.

Accelerating the adoption of AI/ML technologies within simulation software, making model creation faster and more accessible.

Enabling engineers and researchers to solve complex geometric and numerical problems more efficiently.

Improving the accuracy and performance of simulation models through advanced mesh generation techniques.

Driving innovation in the field of computational geometry and simulation technology.

Contributing to the development of robust, scalable software solutions used by leading companies worldwide.

Helping Synopsys maintain its leadership in high-performance simulation and design automation tools.

BS in Engineering, Computer Graphics, Computational Geometry, Mathematics, or related field with 5+ years' experience, MS degree with 3+ years of experience, or PhD with 1+ year of experience.

PhD with Postdoctoral experience preferred

Expertise in AI/ML applications for 3D geometry processing.

Proficient software development skills, especially with Python and C/C++.

Solid understanding of geometry processing, mesh generation, and numerical methods.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a track record of overcoming technical challenges.

Excellent communicator with the ability to explain complex concepts to technical and non-technical audiences.

Collaborative team player who thrives in diverse, cross-functional environments.

Innovative thinker with a drive to push boundaries and explore new technologies.

Self-motivated learner who embraces challenges and adapts quickly to new domains.

Detail-oriented and organized, with a commitment to delivering high-quality work.

You will join the Meshing Development Unit (MDU), a dynamic group of engineers and researchers dedicated to advancing simulation technology. The team specializes in AI/ML, geometry processing, and mesh generation, working collaboratively to deliver innovative solutions for complex engineering problems. You'll engage with experts across multiple disciplines and geographies, contributing to a vibrant, supportive, and forward-thinking environment.

We offer a comprehensive range of health, wellness, and financial benefits to cater to your needs. Our total rewards include both monetary and non-monetary offerings. Your recruiter will provide more details about the salary range and benefits during the hiring process.

At Synopsys, we want talented people of every background to feel valued and supported to do their best work. Synopsys considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, military veteran status, or disability.

In addition to the base salary, this role may be eligible for an annual bonus, equity, and other discretionary bonuses. Synopsys offers comprehensive health, wellness, and financial benefits as part of a competitive total rewards package. The actual compensation offered will be based on a number of job-related factors, including location, skills, experience, and education. Your recruiter can share more specific details on the total rewards package upon request. The base salary range for this role is across the U.S.