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Staff Development Engineer IV – Engineering Data Scientist & Digital Twin Specialist– Plymouth, MN - Hybrid
Daikin Applied is seeking an Engineering Data Scientist & Digital Twin Specialist with a strong focus on Reduced Order Modeling (ROM). In this role, you will bridge the gap between high-fidelity 3D physic-based (FEA/CFD), 1D system performance simulations, lab, and real-time operational data. You will build, validate, and deploy fast-running surrogate models and hybrid digital twins that power predictive maintenance, real-time edge analytics, and automated design optimization for our physical assets and systems.
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:
- Reduced Order Modeling (ROM): Develop, calibrate, and validate ROMs from complex 3D/multiphysics simulations (e.g., thermal, structural, fluid dynamics) to accelerate computation speeds by orders of magnitude without losing fidelity.
- Hybrid Digital Twin Development: Design and implement hybrid digital twins that combine first-principles physical models with machine learning/AI (physics-informed neural networks, surrogate modeling) to mirror real-world asset behavior.
- Data Integration & Pipelines: Ingest, clean, and utilize high-frequency time-series telemetry and IoT sensor data from physical machinery/assets to continuously update and retrain digital models.
- Deployment & Scaling: Package and deploy ROMs into production environments, cloud platforms, or real-time edge devices using platforms like Ansys Twin Builder, Siemens Simcenter, or custom Python/C++ frameworks.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work tightly with domain engineers, software developers, and data engineers to integrate digital twin frameworks into broader enterprise architectures and PLM.
- Model Validation: Conduct rigorous regression testing, scenario analysis, and test-data correlation to ensure numerical stability and accuracy against physical counterparts.
Your Qualifications:
- Master’s or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Data Science, or a related technical discipline
- 6+ years of industry/research experience in applied machine learning, scientific computing, or physics-based simulation
- Proven track record of building and deploying Reduced Order Models (ROMs) (e.g., Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD), Dynamic Mode Decomposition (DMD), or machine learning surrogates like Gaussian Processes and neural networks)
- Advanced proficiency in Python (NumPy, PyTorch/TensorFlow, Scikit-learn) and/or C++
- Familiarity with engineering simulation software suites (e.g., Ansys Twin Builder, Siemens Simcenter, MATLAB/Simulink, or OpenFOAM/FEA tools)
- Experience with time-series databases, IoT data streams (MQTT, OPC UA), and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) for model deployment
- Strong understanding of physical principles (dynamics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, structures, or fluid mechanics) alongside statistical modeling and machine learning
- Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
- Demonstrated ability to lead technical project teams and mentor engineers
- Knowledge of systems engineering and architecture principles
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and drive collaboration in a cross-functional, globally distributed environment
- Understanding of model reuse, simulation governance, and lifecycle management concepts
- Track record of leading cross-disciplinary simulation initiatives or shaping organizational modeling strategy
Your Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with MiL and HiL simulation workflows
- Experience with machine learning, data analytics, or AI-assisted modeling and automation
- Background in experimental data acquisition and validation of simulation models using test data
- Experience with physics-informed machine learning (PINMs) or geometric deep learning
- Exposure to industrial IoT platforms or 3D real-time visualization frameworks (NVIDIA Omniverse, Unity/Unreal)
- Knowledge of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methodologies
- Deep understanding of thermodynamic cycle modeling, HVAC&R systems, fluid mechanics, heat transfer fundamentals, oil circulation effects, and both steady-state and dynamic system behavior
- Extensive experience developing, calibrating, and troubleshooting complex model libraries, parameter databases, and calibration routines
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 $109,100 - $118,700 plus a 15% 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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If you're looking for an engaging career with growth opportunities in a supportive environment, you'll love a career at Daikin Applied!
