Senior Development Engineer III – 1D Systems Modeling and Simulation

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Senior Development Engineer III – 1D Systems Modeling and Simulation – Plymouth, MN - Hybrid

Daikin Applied is seeking a Senior Development Engineer III to develop, calibrate, and deploy both steady-state and dynamic 1D system models for commercial HVAC products, including chillers, air handlers, and applied terminal systems.  As part of the central Model-Based Engineering (MBE) team, this role spans library development, tool development, and application for product design across both steady-state and dynamic simulation, supporting control strategy development, performance optimization, and model-in-the-loop (MiL) testing.

The position combines steady-state and dynamic library and ecosystem development with the application and support of modeling and simulation for product development. The ideal candidate brings strong programming skills, a solid understanding of HVAC thermodynamic systems, and a forward-thinking approach to simulation automation and AI/ML integration. Operating with growing technical independence, the role contributes to simulation best practices, supports cross-functional teams, and helps mentor junior engineers.

Come be a part of an exciting journey at Daikin Applied, where innovation and excellence drive our every endeavor!

Location: Hybrid - Plymouth, MN

Your Responsibilities:

• Develop, calibrate, and validate both steady-state and physics-based dynamic models of HVAC systems, including compressors, heat exchangers, expansion devices, and control logic
• Design and implement libraries and development frameworks for steady-state and dynamic system simulation with an emphasis on reusability, modularity, and integration
• Build tools that automate model generation, parameterization, calibration, and results processing for thermodynamic system simulations
• Interface Modelica models with Simulink, Python, and testing frameworks via FMI/FMU to support model-in-the-loop (MiL) workflows
• Collaborate with global MBE teams and modeling practitioners to define simulation requirements and standardize toolsets, workflows, and modeling libraries across business units (Chillers, Air Handlers, Terminal Systems)
• Support the new product development phase-gate process, helping ensure appropriate design maturity across milestones
• Champion model standardization, documentation, traceability, and lifecycle governance practices
• Develop test plans and support component, subsystem, and system testing to validate simulation models
• Investigate and apply machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) tools to accelerate calibration, surrogate modeling, controller tuning, or automation of complex modeling workflows
• Provide guidance on best practices for simulation tool development, version control, and continuous integration, and help mentor junior engineers

Your Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field
• 6+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent: M.S. with 4+ years; Ph.D. with relevant modeling or tool development experience)
• Strong understanding of thermodynamic cycle modeling, HVAC&R systems, heat transfer fundamentals, and both steady-state and dynamic system behavior
• Proficiency in one or more technical computing languages such as Julia, Python, MATLAB, or R, with demonstrated experience developing tools, libraries, or simulation software
• Experience with standard system simulation tools such as Dymola (preferred), GT Suite, Simscape, or Amesim, and familiarity with the FMI standard
• Experience building and executing structured simulation workflows, including model integration with Simulink and FMI/FMU-based tools
• Familiarity with steady-state modeling platforms such as VapCyc, CoilDesigner, EES, or equivalent tools
• Experience designing model libraries, parameter databases, and calibration routines, and troubleshooting complex models
• Effective communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to estimate work tasks and support project planning activities
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional, globally distributed environment

Your Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field
• Working knowledge of Fortran, C, C++, Java, or C#
• Experience with MiL and HiL simulation workflows
• Experience with machine learning, data analytics, or AI-assisted modeling and automation
• Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git) and software development best practices
• Background in experimental data acquisition and validation of simulation models using test data
• Exposure to API development, database interaction, or simulation-as-a-service frameworks
• Familiarity with controls development and embedded system integration
• Understanding of model reuse, simulation governance, and lifecycle management concepts
• Experience working with or across international engineering teams.

Your Benefits:

Daikin Applied offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: 

• Multiple medical insurance plan options + dental and vision insurance  
• 401K retirement plan with employer match
• Paid time off and company paid holidays
• Paid sick time in accordance with the federal, state and local law
• Tuition Reimbursement after 6 months of continuous service 

Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position

The typical annual base salary for this position ranges from $90,400 - $151,800 plus a 10% bonus in Minnesota.  The range displayed represents the pay range for all positions in the job grade which these positions fall. Individual base pay will depend on a wide range of factors including your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

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