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Finite Element Analysis Engineer Jobs in California

OSI Engineering, Inc.

Mechanical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

A globally leading technology company is looking for a skilled and detail-oriented Mechanical FEA (Finite Element Analysis) Modeler - Abaqus to join its engineering team. The ideal candidate will be ...

SI Solutions, LLC

FEA Stress Analysis Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$100K - $168K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Advanced finite element analysis of vessel, piping, valves and other nuclear components ... SIA is an engineering consulting firm serving various industries including Nuclear Power, Energy ...

K2 Staffing, LLC

Sr. Engineer (Structural)

Los Angeles, CA

$90K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform structural engineering design and analysis for buildings and seismic-resilient structures. * Use finite element software and engineering judgment for technical solutions. * Support ...

Momentus Space LLC

Structural Analyst Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Demonstrated experience with dynamics analysis using Femap/Nastran or similar finite element ... or Engineering Mechanics, or a closely related discipline * 5+ year relevant experience ...

Momentus Space LLC

Structural Analyst Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Demonstrated experience with dynamics analysis using Femap/Nastran or similar finite element ... or Engineering Mechanics, or a closely related discipline * 5+ year relevant experience ...

K2 Staffing, LLC

Sr. Engineer (Structural)

San Diego, CA

$90K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform structural engineering design and analysis for buildings and seismic-resilient structures. * Use finite element software and engineering judgment for technical solutions. * Support ...

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Finite Element Analysis Engineer information

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How much do finite element analysis engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for finite element analysis engineer in California is $52.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.69 and $61.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a finite element analysis engineer do?

A Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Engineer uses computer-based simulation techniques to predict how products or structures behave under various conditions, such as stress, heat, vibration, or other physical effects. They create detailed digital models and use specialized software to identify potential weaknesses or areas for improvement in a design before physical prototypes are made. FEA Engineers play a crucial role in industries like automotive, aerospace, civil engineering, and manufacturing, helping to optimize designs for safety, durability, and efficiency. Their work reduces the need for costly physical testing and speeds up the overall product development process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a finite element analysis engineer?

To thrive as a Finite Element Analysis Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or structural engineering, strong mathematical skills, and experience with FEA principles—typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with FEA software such as ANSYS, Abaqus, or NASTRAN, and familiarity with CAD tools and simulation certifications, are highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting results and collaborating with design teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering accurate simulations that inform design decisions, ensure safety, and optimize product performance.

What are some common challenges faced by finite element analysis engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Engineers often collaborate with design, manufacturing, and testing teams, which can present communication challenges due to differing technical backgrounds and priorities. Translating complex simulation results into actionable design recommendations requires clear, concise communication and a solid understanding of the broader project goals. Additionally, FEA Engineers must balance simulation accuracy with project timelines, often needing to make judicious decisions about model complexity. Adapting quickly to evolving project requirements and integrating feedback from various stakeholders is key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Finite Element Analysis Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectFinite Element Analysis EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Civil, or Aerospace Engineering; certifications in FEA softwareBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; design software certifications
Work EnvironmentEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive industriesProduct development, manufacturing, automotive, consumer goods
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for structural analysis, stress testing, and simulationUsed for designing and developing mechanical components and systems

The main difference is that a Finite Element Analysis Engineer specializes in performing simulations and stress analysis using FEA software, focusing on validating designs. In contrast, a Mechanical Design Engineer primarily develops and creates mechanical components and systems, often using CAD tools. Both roles require engineering backgrounds, but their focus and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs in California?

For Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs in California look for?

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What cities in California are hiring for Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Finite Element Analysis Engineer job openings:

Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Finite Element Analysis Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,091 per year, or $52.9 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

OSI Engineering, Inc.

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

A globally leading technology company is looking for a skilled and detail-oriented Mechanical FEA (Finite Element Analysis) Modeler – Abaqus to join its engineering team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for all pre-processing steps, including geometry clean-up, material definitions, and meshing techniques, as well as occasionally running and interpreting FEA simulations using Abaqus software to support a variety of engineering projects. This position requires in-depth knowledge of finite element modeling, expert-level FEA modeling and meshing skills, and experience using NX CAD software for geometry preparation and cleanup.  If you are passionate about simulation and engineering excellence, we invite you to apply and become part of this innovative global team!

Key Responsibilities:

•    Develop detailed finite element models using Abaqus CAE software to be used for simulating mechanical, structural, and thermal performance.
•    Pre-process and post-process complex simulations, ensuring accurate model setup, meshing, and analysis.
•    Apply expert techniques and best practices for building high quality mesh models and apply necessary element grouping and keywords using manual methods and scripting
•    Develop material models using material testing data.
•    Troubleshoot and resolve modeling issues, refining models to improve convergence and computational efficiency.
•    Maintain up-to-date knowledge of simulation best practices and advancements in FEA technology.

Qualifications and Experience:

•    Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
•    Minimum of 3 years of experience in finite element modeling using Abaqus CAE.
•    Proficiency in finite element modeling, with a strong grasp of model preparation and meshing, material models, boundary conditions, and load applications.
•    Experience in NX CAD software for importing and exporting model geometries.
•    Experience in ANSA and Hypermesh a strong plus.
•    Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with keen attention to detail.
•    Excellent communication skills for reporting and collaborating with team members.

Preferred Skills:

•    Background in mechanical design or structural analysis.
•    Familiarity with other FEA pre-processing and modeling tools (e.g., ANSA, Hypermesh, ICEPAK, COMSOL).
•    Experience with composite materials modeling or advanced material properties.
•    Certification in Abaqus or FEA-related training courses a plus.


Type: Contract
Duration: 12 months with extension
Work Location: Cupertino, CA (100% on site)
Pay range: $ 74.00 - $ 89.00  (DOE)

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