Discrete Event Simulation (Des) Specialist
Hybrid The successful candidate is expected to report to the designated location a minimum of 3 days per week or at other frequency dictated by business needs. The primary work location will be Warren, MI.
The Role
As a Discrete Event Simulation (DES) Specialist, you will play a critical role in optimizing manufacturing and warehouse operations through advanced simulation modeling. Using industry-standard DES software, you'll build dynamic digital models to analyze system performance, identify bottlenecks, and support strategic investment decisions. Your work will span automated, semi-automated, and manual processesincluding roboticsand directly influence transformation initiatives and operational planning.
What You'll Do
- Build and validate discrete event simulation models using tools such as FlexSim, Emulate3D, or Simul8 to represent complex manufacturing and warehouse systems.
- Conduct robotic reach and cycle time studies to optimize motion paths and reduce idle time.
- Perform throughput and capacity analysis to identify flow constraints and improve system performance.
- Develop simulations for virtual commissioning and maintain digital twins for real-time operational reference.
- Create adaptive, data-driven simulation models that reflect current system status and forecast future performance.
- Develop custom scripts and control logic to enhance simulation fidelity and automation.
- Analyze production metrics (e.g., cycle time, throughput, utilization, first pass yield) and translate insights into actionable recommendations.
- Collaborate with design teams to validate tooling, layout, and robot selection using simulation outputs.
- Generate robot paths and Off-Line Programs (OLPs) to support engineering and deployment teams.
- Produce high-quality simulation visuals and animations for presentations and stakeholder engagement.
- Support facility-level simulation deployment and provide training to internal users.
- Present findings and recommendations to technical and non-technical audiences, ensuring clarity and impact.
Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
2+ years of experience in operations or manufacturing environments, with direct application of DES tools.Strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and stochastic modeling.Working knowledge of FlexSim, Emulate3D, Simul8, or similar simulation platforms.Practical experience modeling automated, semi-automated, and manual systems, including robotic cells and material handling equipment.Ability to develop and implement simulation models that accurately represent complex systems and workflows.Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related quantitative field or equivalent experience.What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
Experience integrating simulation models with real-time data, digital twins, or IoT platforms.Familiarity with robotic simulation environments (e.g., Process Simulate, RoboDK) and offline programming tools.Background in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.Experience supporting automation deployment in unionized manufacturing environments.Knowledge of simulation-based optimization, including constraint modeling and scenario analysis.Experience creating realistic 3D animations and simulation videos for technical presentations.Skilled in Python, C++, or other object-oriented languages for simulation scripting and data analysis.GM DOES NOT PROVIDE IMMIGRATION-RELATED SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE. DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS ROLE IF YOU WILL NEED GM IMMIGRATION SPONSORSHIP (e.g., H-1B, TN, STEM OPT, etc.) NOW OR IN THE FUTURE.
This role may be eligible for relocation benefits.