Manager, Vehicle Physics, Characteristics, and Simulation

Scout Motors   

Here at Scout Motors, we're carrying forward the heritage of one of the most iconic American vehicles in history. A vehicle dating back to 1960. One that forged the path for future generations of rugged SUVs and will do so once again.

But Scout is more than just a brand, it’s a legacy steeped in a culture of exploration, caretaking, and hard work.

Scout is all about respect.  Respect for the environment by developing all-electric vehicles with the capability to get you to any location.  Respect for the past and the future by taking an iconic American brand that hasn’t been around for a while, electrifying it, digitizing it, and loading it with American innovation.  Respect for communities by creating a company that stands for its people and its customers.  And respect for both work and play, with vehicles that are equally at home at a camp site, a job site, or on a Tuesday commute. 

At Scout Motors, we empower our talented, inclusive, and entrepreneurial teams to innovate. What makes a Scout? Someone who is a visionary and a leader, who seeks new paths and shares lessons learned. A knowledgeable doer who collaborates across the company to build better. A go-getter with unrivaled passion. If this sounds like you, we invite you to apply below.

What you’ll do

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

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of engineers and simulation specialists and foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Develop and maintain high-fidelity vehicle physics models that accurately simulate vehicle behavior under various conditions.
• Develop and refine physics-based models of vehicle systems, chassis, powertrain, and aerodynamics.
• Utilize these models to analyze and optimize driving behavior and its impact on vehicle’s energy consumption and propose innovative design changes to enhance aerodynamics.
• Lead the analysis of simulation results, including complex physics-based data, to draw meaningful conclusions and make recommendations; ensure vehicle designs meet performance and safety requirements.
• Manage the technical expertise for on-road and track testing of prototype vehicles to validate simulation results and assess real-world performance, incorporating physics-based insights.
• Work closely with other R&D departments, including vehicle dynamics, aerodynamics, and powertrain, to integrate characteristics and simulation efforts into the vehicle development process.
• Participate in and direct design reviews and provide technical guidance to ensure compliance during the development of new vehicle systems and components.

Location & Travel Expectations: The responsibilities of this role require attendance at in-person meetings and events occasionally. The role will be based at our office in Novi, MI. Applicants should expect that the role may require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and be able to travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time.

What you’ll bring 

We expect all Scouts 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 or master’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, electrical engineering or a related field
• 7+ years of experience in in vehicle physics modeling, characteristics development, and simulation in the automotive industry such as NVH, weight, aero dynamics, and range as well as data analysis, and interpretation for vehicles and/or components
• Strong knowledge of vehicle systems and components, including vehicle electrification systems, drivetrain integration, chassis, electrical, and electronics as well as operational modes.
• Extensive knowledge of relevant regulatory and homologation standards and requirements or other regional regulations.
• Proficiency in data analysis and simulation result interpretation.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with a track record of building and leading high-performing teams.
• Attention to detail and excellent problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities within established timelines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders.

What you'll gain

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 lastin