Train Design Engineer

Job Title: Chief of Structural Optimization and Simulation Service - Expert (m/f/d) 80%-100%

Req ID: […]

Company Overview:

At Alstom, we are committed to shaping the future of transport. From high-speed trains to metros, trams, turnkey systems, infrastructure, signaling, and digital mobility solutions, we offer the most comprehensive portfolio in the industry. With 80,000 colleagues worldwide, we enhance greener and smarter mobility, connecting cities while reducing carbon emissions.

The Service domain is highly specialized, requiring strict adherence to all necessary criteria and standards set at the Group level. Our operations face significant competition, driven by tight deadlines and the unique economic contexts associated with Service projects. Additionally, we sometimes work with non-Alstom vehicles that were initially designed using different FEA tools and processes, which we need to understand and manage regarding specific input models and solvers.

Your Future Role:

As the Chief of Structural Optimization and Simulation Service - Expert at Alstom Switzerland, you will report directly to Jean-Baptiste Haury, Engineering Director, you will work alongside a dedicated team and collaborate with cross-functional groups, to optimize product integrity, cost, and time to market. In this role, you will define strategies for structural optimization, simulation, and validation, considering essential constraints related to time, cost, and project specifications. You will lead and conduct numerical simulations and validation studies across various domains such as numerical optimization, statics, fatigue, crash, vibration, thermomechanical, and aerodynamic analysis, etc.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop strategies for structural optimization, simulation, and validation, considering essential constraints related to time, cost, and project specifications
• Lead and conduct comprehensive numerical simulations and validation studies to achieve design optimization.
• Implement optimization-driven design processes for robust simulation and validation.
• Encourage continuous improvement and innovative thinking while adhering to technical, economic, and regulatory standards.
• Ensure alignment between technical and Service business objectives.

All About You

Here are some key attributes that will contribute to your success in this role:

• Extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of advanced simulation and optimization techniques, including optimization-driven design, sizing, shape and topology optimization, crash simulations, thermomechanical analysis, and 3D printing technology, to enhance design solutions across various projects.
• Strong understanding of the complexities, challenges, and opportunities within Service PL.
• Creative problem-solving abilities with the capacity to think innovatively while adhering to strict regulatory requirements.
• An Engineer / Master's degree from a HES or Grande École in Mechanical Engineering, complemented by a solid foundation in business and strategy through a strong MBA program.
• Prior experience required with Swiss trains and vehicles.
• Proficiency in French and English; willingness to learn German, particularly for the Swiss market.

Broad Technical Expertise Required:

• Deep understanding of various factors involved in structural validation, including statics, vibrations, fatigue, crash scenarios, thermomechanics, and aerodynamics.
• Hands-on experience with FEA solvers, including Altair OptiStruct, Radioss, Ansys, PamCrash, as well as pre- and post-processing including Altair Hypermesh, HyperStudy, Inspire, Altair HyperWorks CFD, ANSA, Abaqus CAE, Abaqus ATOM, and Altair HyperCrash.
• Proficient in advanced optimization-driven design using tools Altair OptiStruct and HyperStudy, Inspire, focusing on multiphysics criteria including statics, vibration, buckling, composites, metals, and plastics.
• Strong grasp of numerical optimization algorithms and a range of complex optimization parameters, as well as specific criteria allowing for the formulation of optimal strategies to reduce time-to-market for solutions.
• Strong understanding of crash analysis techniques, and specific meshing for crash simulations.
• Strong understanding of the advantages and limitations of rapid design and validation tools (for example with Inspire and SimSolid) compared to standard FEA methodologies.
• Experience with design optimization for 3D printing and lattice structures.
• Experience with thermomechanical simulations for forging processes.
• Good understanding of composite and metallic materials.

Things You’ll Enjoy

Join us on a life-long transformative journey—the rail industry is here to stay, allowing you to grow and develop new skills and experiences throughout your career. You’ll also:

• Experience a dynamic work environment with a permanent position at a leading company for green mobility.
• Enjoy a competitive remuneration package and benefits such as company pension plans and discounted tickets for public transport (e.g., ZVV Bonuspass).
• Optimize your work-life balance with flexible working hours and hybrid working models.
• Explore growth opportunities and steer your career across functions and countries.
• Benefit from excellent training opportunities through our award-winning Alstom University and participate in the company's innovation culture through idea management programs.
• Thrive in a modern and collaborative workplace featuring mentor and buddy programs, diversity and inclusion initiatives, CSR activities, and engaging employee events.

Equal Opportunities Statement

As an employer, Alstom stands for equal opportunities. By creating an inclusive work environment where all employees are encouraged to realize their full potential, individual differences are valued and respected. All applicants are considered solely on the basis of their qualifications, regardless of skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ethnic and national origin, disability, or other legally protected characteristics