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Entry Level Fea Jobs in Providence, RI (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Fea information

See Providence, RI salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do entry level fea jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level fea in Providence, RI is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $18.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level FEA job?

Entry Level FEA jobs refer to positions for beginners in the field of Finite Element Analysis (FEA). These roles typically involve assisting with simulation, modeling, and analysis of engineering structures using FEA software. Entry level FEA engineers work under supervision to help solve design problems, validate prototypes, and optimize products. Candidates usually need a background in engineering and some familiarity with FEA tools such as ANSYS or Abaqus.

What types of projects can an entry level FEA (Finite Element Analysis) engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level FEA Engineer, you can expect to support senior engineers by performing simulations and analyses on components or assemblies, typically under supervision. Common projects may include stress analysis, thermal analysis, or vibration studies for mechanical parts in industries like automotive, aerospace, or manufacturing. You'll likely be responsible for preprocessing tasks such as meshing, boundary condition setup, and reporting results. Collaboration with design engineers and regular feedback sessions are typical, helping you build technical and teamwork skills essential for career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level FEA (Finite Element Analysis) engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level FEA Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering fundamentals, mathematics, and a relevant degree such as mechanical or aerospace engineering. Familiarity with FEA software like ANSYS, Abaqus, or SolidWorks Simulation, along with knowledge of CAD systems, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for accurately analyzing complex structures, collaborating with teams, and ensuring high-quality engineering solutions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Fea vs Entry Level Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level FeaEntry Level Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certification, basic knowledge of FEA softwareBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, foundational engineering knowledge
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, manufacturing companies, engineering consultanciesManufacturing, product design, R&D departments
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in engineering analysis roles across industriesBroader engineering roles, including design and development

Entry Level Fea specialists focus on performing finite element analysis to evaluate product performance, often requiring specific software skills. Entry Level Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, including design, testing, and development tasks. While both roles may work in similar environments, Fea roles are more analysis-specific, whereas Mechanical Engineering roles encompass a wider range of engineering functions.

Mechanical Engineer - Unmanned Systems Payload Design

SEACORP

Middletown, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support the design, development, and assembly of electronic chassis, payloads, containerized systems, mission modules, and sensor nodes.

  • Perform structural, hydrodynamic, thermal, and vibration analyses using hand calculations and FEA software.

  • Create system-level component arrangements, installation diagrams, fabrication drawings, and system engineering documents.


Job description

SEACORP is seeking a well-qualified Mechanical Engineer - Unmanned Systems Payload Design.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
Job Summary: SEACORP'sSurface/Undersea Technology Integration business area is seeking a MechanicalEngineer to support design and development of electronic warfare and acousticsystems. These systems are deployed as containerized units, on manned andunmanned vehicles as payloads, and as subsea sensor nodes. Our Advanced SystemsIntegration task area specializes in prototype design and rapid capabilityintegration to field new technologies relevant to our US Navy and Marine Corpscustomers. System designs include shipboard alterations and payloads/missionmodules for unmanned/minimally manned platforms. Tasking includes conceptdevelopment, engineering design, drawing and documentation development, loadinganalysis, production, testing, and installation support for Department ofDefense (DoD) and industry partners.
Job Responsibilities Include:
  • Work with electrical,RF, and systems engineers to conceptualize, design, fabricate, and assembleelectronic chassis.
  • Utilize handcalculations and Finite Element Analysis software to examine structuralstresses, shock and hydrodynamic loading responses, vibration behavior, andthermal responses of shipboard hardware.
  • Develop system-level componentarrangement and installation diagrams.
  • Support design and development of payloads,containerized systems, mission modules, sensor nodes, Temporary Alterations(TEMPALTs), and other prototype and production systems.
  • Develop design concepts from customer need statements, requirements, and CONOPs
  • Develop components, equipment, foundations, and structures using SolidWorks CAD software.
  • Conduct structural loading, hydrodynamic, thermal and vibration analyses using hand calculations and FEA software.
  • Develop 2D fabrication, assembly, and installation drawings from 3D models.
  • Develop system engineering drawings and documents such as installation plans/procedures, Space, Weight and Power (SWAP) tables, and Weight & Moment tables.
  • Review of equipment Interface Control Documents (ICD) and Government Furnished Information (GFI) for integration of systems into existing architecture.
  • Selection of mil-spec and Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) materials as warranted.
  • Knowledge of mil-standard environmental testing (e.g. MIL-S-901 Shock, MIL-S-810 Vibration) is a plus.
  • Experience with subsea material selection, finishes, design, analysis, and sealing methods is a plus.
  • Travel to various naval stations and/or test facilities may be required on a limited basis.

Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor's level degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience.
Ideal Skills and Experience:
  • Team oriented with the ability to interface with other engineers, logisticians, and technicians.
  • Self-driven to take on responsibility and accountability for workmanship and product deadlines.
  • Familiarity with commercial engineering practices, materials, design for manufacturing, maintenance planning, installation methods and other trade skills a plus.
  • Experience with SolidWorks software is a plus.

As a requirement of employment, all SEACORP employees must hold U.S. Citizenship.
Location: Middletown, RI
Travel: Infrequently (<3 annually)
Clearance: Secret
Work Environment & Physical Demands: Office & Computer Laboratories - Sitting, standing, extended periods of time using a mouse and keyboard and viewing computer screens. Infrequent lifting of <40lbs. Movement between points within the same office or between buildings. Work is performed in generally consistent environmental conditions with some seasonality for temperature differences and lighting.
Successful candidates will enjoy competitive wages and a very rich benefit program, including:
  • Medical Benefits: Choice of two medical insurance programs through Blue Cross & Blue Shield.
  • Dental Benefits: A best in class Dental Insurance Plan through Delta Dental.
  • Vision Benefits: An excellent Vision Benefit providing discounts and allowances for prescription glasses and contact lenses.
  • Retirement Benefits: A qualified 401(k) Retirement Savings Account with a generous employer matching contribution up to 8% of your eligible compensation.
  • Life Insurance Benefits: Employer paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance equal to your annual salary. Supplemental coverage is available for you and qualified family members as well as Supplemental Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance.
  • Additional Benefits: Ten (10) Paid Holidays per year (including 2 floating Holidays), a generous Paid Time Off (PTO) program; Tuition Reimbursement, and Referral Bonuses.
Undersea, on the surface, or in the air, SEACORP leverages its software and engineering expertise to deliver cutting edge warfare systems.
SEACORP is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state and local fair employment practices laws. SEACORP strictly prohibits and does not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, sex, gender (including gender nonconformity and status as a transgender or transsexual individual), age, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, citizenship, past, current or prospective service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

SEACORP logo

About SEACORP

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Middletown, RI, US

Year founded

1981