We are seeking an experienced Performance Engineer PE with strong expertise in CFD simulation, 1D thermal system modeling, thermal management, and full-vehicle cooling performance development for commercial vehicle programs. The engineer will act as the technical focal point for engine cooling performance, supporting the complete development process from simulation and system sizing to vehicle validation and correlation activities.

The ideal candidate is:

highly skilled in Star‑CCM+ , ANSA , and at least one 1D simulation tool such as Amesim , GT‑Power , or similar, and is capable of balancing numerical simulations with experimental correlation, documentation, and cross‑functional alignment.
recognized as a cooling and thermal management expert , capable of understanding, simulating, validating, and optimizing the complete vehicle cooling system.

The engineer shall lead both virtual and physical validation activities, define VVPs and DVPs, and ensure robust correlation between simulation and test results throughout the development cycle.

Workload distribution:

~40% CFD simulation activities

~10% methodology development

~50% reporting, VVP/DVP planning, validation, correlation, and project integration

Key Responsibilities

CFD Simulation & Numerical Analysis (~40%)

Perform advanced CFD studies for engine cooling and vehicle thermal management.
Conduct geometry preparation and high-quality meshing using ANSA and Star-CCM+.
Set up, run, and post-process simulations using Star-CCM+.
Analyze cooling performance KPIs, identify performance gaps, and propose engineering improvements.
Support optimization of airflow distribution through the cooling package and underhood environment.

Cooling System Architecture & Thermal Management

Act as Subject Matter Expert (SME) for complete engine cooling system architecture and thermal management. Possess deep technical understanding of the operating principles, performance, sizing criteria, and interactions of:

Radiator
Charge Air Cooler (Intercooler)
Condenser
Engine Fan and Fan Drive Systems
Air Intake System
Exhaust System
Water Pump
Thermostat and Coolant Control Devices
Expansion / Degas Tank
Coolant Piping and Valve Systems
Evaluate component-level and system-level impacts on cooling performance and thermal robustness.
Support cooling package architecture definition and optimization.
Analyze airflow management through the cooling module and engine compartment.
Support troubleshooting of thermal issues identified during simulation or vehicle testing.

1D Cooling System Modeling

Develop and maintain 1D models for cooling system sizing and optimization.
Use Amesim, GT-Power, or equivalent tools at an expert level.
Integrate 1D simulation results with CFD analyses to support system-level engineering decisions.
Perform sensitivity studies and scenario assessments.
Support cooling component sizing and thermal balance calculations.

Experimental Correlation & Validation Activities

Support correlation activities between simulations and physical test results.
Participate in on-road testing campaigns for data collection and model validation.
Support climatic chamber and roller bench testing activities.
Execute structured correlation processes to improve model accuracy and predictive capability.
Analyze test data and identify root causes of cooling performance deviations.
Provide technical recommendations based on test and simulation findings.

Validation Planning & Project Integration

Define, maintain, and manage project-specific Virtual Validation Plans (VVP) and Development Validation Plans (DVP).
Identify representative physical vehicles, prototypes, and configurations required for validation campaigns.
Define validation matrices, operating conditions, instrumentation requirements, and acceptance criteria.
Ensure alignment between simulation activities, validation plans, and program milestones.
Coordinate validation activities with Vehicle Integration Responsible (VIR), testing teams, project managers, and component owners.
Ensure traceability between requirements, simulations, validation activities, and final performance targets.
Support design reviews by providing simulation, testing, and validation insights.

Methodology Development (~10%)

Enhance CFD and 1D modeling methodologies, best practices, and automation processes.
Improve validation strategies, correlation procedures, and performance assessment frameworks.
Collaborate with simulation and CAE specialists to advance modeling capabilities.

Reporting & Communication (~50%)

Prepare detailed technical reports, executive summaries, and engineering presentations.
Present analyses and recommendations to engineering and management teams.
Clearly communicate technical risks, validation status, and mitigation plans.
Support project decision-making through data-driven engineering assessments.

Required Qualifications

Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related disciplines.
7-12 years of experience in vehicle thermal management, cooling system development, simulation, or performance engineering.
Mandatory proficiency in Star-CCM+, ANSA, and at least one 1D simulation tool (Amesim, GT-Power, or equivalent).
Expert knowledge of engine cooling systems and thermal management.
Thorough understanding of cooling package components, including radiator, intercooler, condenser, fan systems, air intake and exhaust systems.
Strong background in aerodynamics, cooling, HVAC, and thermal management.
Experience in cooling module sizing, airflow management, and thermal system optimization.
Proven experience defining and managing VVPs, DVPs, and validation strategies for vehicle development programs.
Ability to correlate simulation results with road tests, climatic chamber tests, and wind tunnel testing.
Fluent English.
Availability and willingness to travel

Soft Skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
Excellent communication and technical writing skills.
Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
Proactive, organized, and results-oriented mindset.
Strong ownership and accountability for project deliverables.
Ability to lead technical discussions and influence engineering decisions

Nice to Have

Experience with climatic wind tunnel operations.
Knowledge of co-simulation approaches.
Experience within OEM or Tier-1 automotive environments.
Familiarity with heavy-duty and commercial vehicle applications.
Previous experience leading cooling performance development for complete vehicle programs.

Salary Range:

Contratto Collettivo Specifico di Lavoro per Iveco Group

1° Gruppo Professionale

Salary Range: 49.000-58.000€

Variable payment as per CCSL

The successful candidate's placement in the range and final offer will be determined by their experience, skills, qualifications and internal equity considerations.

Starting from recruitment, management of people is based on legitimate business considerations only, such as experience, knowledge, skills, education, performance, potential, and the Company's core values.

The Company is committed to acting impartially to eliminate any form of direct or indirect discrimination or undue preference, while supporting and nurturing a culture based on mutual respect and on valuing differences to foster and promote the expression of everyone's potential: this is both due to its people and in the interest of its own progress.

Performance Engineer (Cooling, Thermal Management & CFD Expert)

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