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Computational Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for submersible vehicle structures and components. Generate and ... Minimum 5 years of mechanical engineering experience, with demonstrated work supporting naval or ...

Mechanical Engineer

Albany, GA · On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

Mechanical Engineer This position requires an active Secret clearance or the ability to obtain a ... Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Company ...

Mechanical Engineer This position requires an active Secret clearance or the ability to obtain a ... Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Company ...

We are offering an exciting opportunity for a Mechanical Engineer in our Virginia Beach, VA office ... Experience with Mathcad computational software * Willingness to travel for short term assignments ...

We are offering an exciting opportunity for a Mechanical Engineer in our Virginia Beach, VA office ... Experience with Mathcad computational software * Willingness to travel for short term assignments ...

We are offering an exciting opportunity for a Mechanical Engineer in our Virginia Beach, VA office ... Experience with Mathcad computational software * Willingness to travel for short term assignments ...

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Computational Mechanical Engineer information

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$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do computational mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational mechanical engineer in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computational Mechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computational Mechanical Engineer, you typically need a strong background in mechanical engineering principles, numerical analysis, and a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with finite element analysis (FEA) software, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools, and programming languages such as Python or MATLAB is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for conveying complex results and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure accurate simulations, innovative solutions, and the ability to translate computational findings into practical engineering outcomes.

What is the difference between Computational Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectComputational Mechanical EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, proficiency in simulation softwareBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, CAD software skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, simulation centers, R&D departmentsDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, aerospace, automotive, energy sectorsManufacturers, product design companies, consumer goods industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Computational Mechanical Engineers focus on using simulation and modeling to analyze mechanical systems, often working in research or R&D settings. Mechanical Design Engineers primarily develop and refine physical product designs using CAD tools. While both roles require mechanical engineering credentials, their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly, catering to different aspects of product development and analysis.

What is a Computational Mechanical Engineer?

A Computational Mechanical Engineer is a professional who uses advanced computer simulations and numerical methods to solve mechanical engineering problems. They apply techniques such as finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and other modeling tools to analyze the behavior of structures, materials, and systems. Their work helps optimize designs, improve performance, and predict real-world mechanical behaviors without the need for extensive physical prototypes. This role is essential in industries like automotive, aerospace, and energy, where complex engineering challenges require precise and efficient solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by Computational Mechanical Engineers when working on simulation projects?

Computational Mechanical Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring the accuracy of simulation models and managing the computational resources required for complex analyses. Balancing model fidelity with simulation run times is a frequent concern, as high precision can lead to longer processing times. Additionally, integrating simulation results with experimental data and collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as product design and manufacturing, requires strong communication and problem-solving skills. Staying updated with the latest simulation software and industry best practices is also essential for success in this role.
More about Computational Mechanical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Computational Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Computational Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Computational Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Early Career R&D Mechanical Engineer - Computational Solid Mechanics, Onsite

Early Career R&D Mechanical Engineer - Computational Solid Mechanics, Onsite

Sandia

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$102K - $199K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

About Sandia
Sandia National Laboratories is the nation's premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas. Some of the main reasons we love our jobs:
  • Challenging work with amazing impact that contributes to security, peace, and freedom worldwide
  • Extraordinary co-workers
  • Some of the best tools, equipment, and research facilities in the world
  • Career advancement and enrichment opportunities
  • Flexible work arrangements for many positions include 9/80 (work 80 hours every two weeks, with every other Friday off) and 4/10 (work 4 ten-hour days each week) compressed workweeks, part-time work, and telecommuting (a mix of onsite work and working from home)
  • Generous vacation, strong medical and other benefits, competitive 401k, learning opportunities, relocation assistance and amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance*

World-changing technologies. Life-changing careers. Learn more about Sandia at: http://www.sandia.gov
*These benefits vary by job classification.
What Your Job Will Be Like
What Your Job Will Be Like
The Solid Mechanics Department (1554) applies its expertise in computational solid mechanics to provide the best engineering solutions to our customers. A principal activity is the application of advanced computational mechanics finite-element programs, including SNL developed codes running on massively parallel computers. The department has expertise in complex material response, large deformation mechanics and system level analyses of quasi-static and transient dynamic events.
On any given day, you may be called on to:
  • Apply principles of solid mechanics and use of advanced computational finite-element methods to provide engineering solutions.
  • Conduct predictions of complex, nonlinear material behavior from deformation to failure in multi-physics environments, and full-system scale finite element modeling of transient dynamic events (e.g. crash, crush and impact).
  • Collaborate closely with other computational and experimental mechanics specialists.
  • Partner with staff in the multi-physics code development teams to drive technical innovation to robust predictive capabilities.
  • Work with internal customers on technical details of projects, discussing simulation results, and negotiating deliverables.
    Due to the nature of the work, the selected applicant will be required to work onsite.

Salary Range
$102,400 - $199,700
*Salary range is estimated, and actual salary will be determined after consideration of the selected candidate's experience and qualifications, and application of any approved geographic salary differential.
Qualifications We Require
  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline, or an equivalent combination of directly relevant education and engineering or scientific experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform independent research and development.
  • The ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q clearance

Qualifications We Desire
The ideal R&D S&E Mechanical Engineer candidate will in addition possess the following:
  • Graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering or a highly related field where an independent research project was a graduation requirement (e.g., independent project, thesis, or dissertation).
  • Experience with mechanical engineering and product realization in the NNSA complex.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Also for this posting we are seeking individuals with the following experience:
  • Graduate Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • Extensive experience performing mechanical/structural finite element analyses and strong finite element analysis fundamentals and knowledge to include element selection, contact, material/constitutive model selection, and element failure criteria
  • Solid experience meshing geometric models for use in finite element analyses including complex geometries
  • Experience with nonlinear computational mechanics including large to extreme deformation solid mechanics
  • Experience with Sierra Solid Mechanics and/or commercial large-scale finite element software
  • Experience with high-performance scientific computing and scripting with Python, MATLAB, or other similar coding languages
  • Experience with multi-physics (e.g. thermal, mechanical, shock) computational mechanics
  • Experience in independent research and proposal development
  • Active DOE Q security clearance
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Sigma 15 access, which may require a polygraph.

About Our Team
The Solid Mechanics Department applies its expertise in computational solid mechanics to provide the best engineering solutions to our customers. A principal activity is the application of advanced computational mechanics finite-element programs, including SNL developed codes running on massively parallel computers. The department has expertise in complex material response, large deformation mechanics and system level analyses of quasi-static and transient dynamic events.
Posting Duration
This posting will be open for application submissions for a minimum of three (3) calendar days, including the 'posting date'. Sandia reserves the right to extend the posting date at any time.
Security Clearance
Sandia is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Applicants for employment need to be able to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain a security clearance may be impacted.
Applicants offered employment with Sandia are subject to a federal background investigation to meet the requirements for access to classified information or matter if the duties of the position require a DOE security clearance. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause a clearance to be denied or terminated by DOE, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment.
EEO
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law.
NNSA Requirements for MedPEDs
If you have a Medical Portable Electronic Device (MedPED), such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, drug-releasing pump, hearing aids, or diagnostic equipment and other equipment for measuring, monitoring, and recording body functions such as heartbeat and brain waves, if employed by Sandia National Laboratories you may be required to comply with NNSA security requirements for MedPEDs.
If you have a MedPED and you are selected for an on-site interview at Sandia National Laboratories, there may be additional steps necessary to ensure compliance with NNSA security requirements prior to the interview date.