Lead Quality Engineer

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology. Job Role: You will work at the intersection of nonlinear mechanics (FEA simulation), industrial validation, solver quality. The role is ideal for candidates who enjoy converting complex engineering physics into robust benchmark problems, improving simulation credibility, and influencing the quality of advanced CAE products used by demanding engineering teams. Role Snapshot Role focus Advanced nonlinear (simulation) validation for CAE solvers and workflows Ideal background Ph.D. in Mechanical, Civil, Aerospace, Applied Mechanics, or closely related field Experience 3+ years in CAE/FEA with strong nonlinear statics and dynamics exposure Preferred tools Nastran/Marc/ Abaqus/Ansys pre/post tools such as HyperMesh/ANSA/Patran What You Will Work On • Design high-value validation strategies for advanced nonlinear simulation capabilities, including contact, large deformation, material nonlinearity, nonlinear dynamics, and coupled thermal-mechanical workflows. • Translate demanding industrial applications such as elastomer sealing, composite damage/failure, and complex contact simulation into practical, high-fidelity benchmark models. • Validate solver behavior using a mix of analytical checks, simplified hand calculations, comparison with trusted references. • Build and automate test cases for Nastran and Marc so that complex physics can be validated repeatedly, efficiently, and with clear quality metrics. • Work closely with developers, product teams, and QA engineers to identify gaps, isolate issues, improve testability, and support reliable software releases. • Prepare clear validation reports, technical notes, and evidence-based recommendations that help improve product quality and customer confidence. Core Technical Strengths We Are Looking For • Deep understanding of nonlinear finite element analysis, including geometric, material, and contact nonlinearities. • Strong foundation in continuum mechanics, numerical methods, finite element formulation, and interpretation of nonlinear solver behavior. • Hands-on exposure to advanced constitutive modeling such as hyper-elasticity, viscoelasticity, rate-dependent plasticity, shape memory alloys, or progressive damage/failure in composites, buckling. • Practical experience with meshing, model idealization, boundary conditions, convergence behavior, and post-processing of nonlinear simulation results. • Ability to connect theory with engineering judgment: simplify a complex problem, validate the essentials, and explain results clearly. What Makes a Candidate Stand Out • A record of technical publications, conference presentations, benchmark studies, or research-to-application work in CAE/FEA. • Evidence of solving difficult nonlinear simulation convergence, modeling, or validation problems. • Experience with Python Scripting and AI skills. • Clear communication style: able to explain assumptions, limitations, results, and risks to both technical and product teams. We’re doing work that matters. Help us solve what others can’t.