Development Engineer II – Steady-State 1D Modeling and Simulation

Make your mark at the world’s largest HVAC company

Daikin Applied is seeking a 1D Modeling and Simulation Engineer. The 1D Modeling and Simulation Engineer will focus on developing the tools, libraries, and infrastructure necessary to enable scalable and reusable steady-state system simulation capabilities across our engineering organization. Unlike traditional product design roles, this position is part of the central model-based engineering (MBE) team and is dedicated to building the internal simulation ecosystem that supports commercial HVAC development through robust model automation, calibration tools, and data-driven methods.

This role emphasizes C# software development, library creation, and integration with existing modeling platforms such as VapCyc, CoilDesigner, and custom simulation frameworks. The ideal candidate will bring strong programming skills, a deep understanding of HVAC thermodynamic systems, and a forward-thinking mindset regarding simulation automation and AI/ML integration. Come be a part of an exciting journey at Daikin Applied, where innovation and excellence drive our every endeavor!

Location: Plymouth, MN - Hybrid

What you will do:

• Design and implement libraries and development frameworks for steady-state 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
• Develop and maintain C#-based software to enable user interfaces, model setup, and integration with third-party or in-house modeling platforms (e.g., VapCyc)
• Support the standardization of modeling practices, including documentation, file structure, and metadata tagging to enable model traceability and governance
• Work closely with internal stakeholders to define simulation requirements that enable multi-business-unit scalability (Chillers, Air Handlers, Terminal Systems)
• Collaborate with global MBE teams and modeling practitioners to ensure alignment and tool compatibility
• Assist in the development of test plans and support component and system testing to validate simulation models
• Champion model standardization, documentation, traceability, and lifecycle governance practices
• Investigate and apply machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) tools to accelerate calibration, surrogate modeling, or automation of complex modeling workflows
• Provide guidance on best practices for simulation tool development, version control, and continuous integration

What’s in it for you:

• Medical/Dental/Vision coverage, PTO, 401K match, support for community involvement and much more
• The ability to make an impact and shape your career with a company that is passionate about growth
• The support of an organization that believes it is vital to include and engage diverse people, perspectives, and ideas to achieve our best

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical field
• 5+ years of relevant experience (or equivalent: M.S. with 2+ years; Ph.D. with direct tool development experience)
• Strong understanding of thermodynamic cycle modeling, HVAC systems, and steady-state heat transfer fundamentals
• Proficiency in C# programming, with demonstrated experience developing tools, libraries, or simulation software
• Familiarity with steady-state modeling platforms such as VapCyc, CoilDesigner, EES, or equivalent tools
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to present technical concepts to non-technical audiences
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to estimate work tasks and support project planning activities
• Experience designing and implementing model libraries, parameter databases, and calibration routines
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional and globally distributed environment
• Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. preferred
• 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
• Exposure to API development, database interaction, or simulation-as-a-service frameworks
• Prior involvement in developing tools for multi-disciplinary or multi-physics modeling environments
• Understanding of model reuse, simulation governance, and lifecycle management concepts

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 contributions matching 100% of the first 3% of employee contributions and 50% on the next 2% of employee contributions 
• Company provided life insurance + optional employee-paid voluntary life insurance, dependent life coverage, and voluntary accident coverage 
• Short-term and long-term disability  
• 3 weeks of paid time off for new employees + 11 company-paid holidays 
• Vacation accrues on a monthly basis, unless applicable federal, state, and local law requires a faster accrual 
• Paid sick time in accordance with the federal, state, and local law  
• Paid parental leave and tuition reimbursement after 6 months of continuous service 

The typical annual base salary for this position ranges from $74,200-$120,700 in Minnesota. The range displayed represents the pay range for all positions in the job grade which this position falls. Individual base pay will depend on a wide range of factors including your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

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