Senior Simulation Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Specialist, Vehicle Diagnostics is responsible for ensuring seamless vehicle diagnosis, reparability, and over-the-air (OTA) software updates throughout the full service lifecycle-from customer delivery through up to 15 years post-end-of-series production. This role defines, develops, and maintains advanced diagnostic strategies that enable accurate fault localization across vehicle systems while continuously improving service efficiency, cost control, and customer satisfaction. 

You will play a critical role in enabling workshops and service platforms to support evolving vehicle technologies by delivering high-quality diagnostic content, validating diagnostic solutions, and optimizing Guided Fault Finding (GFF) programs. 

Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following:

OTA Software Management 

• Implement, manage, and oversee the deployment of OTA software updates across all vehicle systems, including powertrain, braking, safety, infotainment, and comfort systems. 
• Ensure OTA updates are delivered reliably and efficiently throughout the vehicle lifecycle. 

Vehicle Diagnostics & Reparability 

• Ensure effective diagnosis and long-term reparability of vehicles from delivery through the end of the service period. 
• Proactively oversee vehicle service readiness across the lifecycle, ensuring compliance with defined service and repair standards. 

Diagnostic Strategy Development 

• Define, create, and document diagnostic strategies for Guided Fault Finding (GFF). 
• Implement standardized diagnostic methods for control units and other diagnosable components to ensure consistency, accuracy, and efficiency. 

Continuous Improvement & Optimization 

• Monitor diagnostic execution to reduce diagnosis time and labor costs. 
• Develop simpler, faster diagnostic solutions that minimize warranty and customer-paid costs while improving workshop productivity and customer satisfaction. 

Diagnostic Content Management 

• Continuously update diagnostic information based on new vehicle functions, equipment, regulations, legal requirements, market needs, and workshop feedback. 
• Ensure all diagnostic content reflects the latest technological and regulatory developments. 
• Manage the release of diagnostic information in alignment with quality standards. 

Validation & Quality Assurance 

• Manage the validation of diagnostic solutions through fault simulation on vehicles, ensuring the robustness and accuracy of GFF programs prior to workshop deployment. 
• Verify and incorporate workshop feedback to ensure diagnostic programs are correct and aligned with corresponding software updates. 

Location & Travel Expectations:

• This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Columbia, South Carolina.  
• This role requires 4-5 days per week in the office, with regular in-person meetings and events. 
• Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time. Regular travel to other Scout locations-including Charlotte, NC; Novi, MI; and Fremont, CA-is expected. 
• Travel: Domestic and international travel required, approximately 10% of the time, with potentially increased international travel during the first two years for training and cross-functional coordination. Valid driver's license required. Passport required.

We expect all Scout employees to have integrity, curiosity, resourcefulness, and strive to exhibit a positive attitude, as well as a growth mindset. You'll be comfortable with change and flexible in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You'll take a collaborative approach to achieve ambitious goals. Here's what else you'll bring: 

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field. 
• 8+ years of experience in OTA software updates, automotive diagnostics, and vehicle reparability, with in-depth knowledge of the complete vehicle lifecycle. 
• Strong expertise in diagnostic strategies and fault localization methodologies, including the creation and documentation of standardized diagnostic approaches. 
• Proven ability to stay current with emerging vehicle technologies, regulatory changes, market needs, and customer feedback-and to translate these inputs into accurate, up-to-date diagnostic content. 
• Strong analytical skills with demonstrated success in monitoring diagnostic performance and implementing efficiency improvements. 
• Hands-on experience in the development and validation of diagnostic solutions, including fault simulation. 
• Experience supporting workshop diagnostic platforms and service operations. 
• Proficiency in German is a plus. 

The benefits of joining Scout include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up.  This is a chance to create something new and lasting - with an iconic brand at its foundation.  In addition, Scout provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Program specifics are detailed in company policies and employee benefit guides, select highlights:

• Competitive insurance including:
  • Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with:
  • An employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including:
  • 20 days planned PTO, as accrued
  • 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually
  • Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
  • Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

This is a full-time, exempt position eligible to receive a base salary and to participate in an annual performance bonus program. Final salary offered will be determined based on factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills and experience. The annual performance bonus program is preset and not candidate dependent.

Initial base salary range = $130,000.00 - $160,000.00

Internal leveling code: IC8