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Finite Element Analysis Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Stress Engineer II

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$53 - $72.50/hr

Performs classical hand calculations and finite element analysis (FEA) on composite structures, reviews engineering drawings, and develops load cases. * Collaborates with mechanical and integration ...

Showing results 41-60

Finite Element Analysis Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$23

$49

$71

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

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for finite element analysis engineer in Texas is $49.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.29 and $57.98 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 job categories do people searching Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs in Texas are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Finite Element Analysis Engineer job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,928 per year, or $50 per hour.

Crash Simulation Engineer

Recaro Aircraft Seating

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Position Summary: The Design Validation Engineer II is responsible for independently executing structural and crashworthiness validation activities for aircraft seating systems. This role provides specialized technical expertise to demonstrate compliance with FAA, airframer, airline, and internal structural requirements through advanced numerical analysis, classical engineering methods, and correlation with physical test evidence.
The position plays a critical role in certification programs and new product development by owning analysis models, evaluating worst-case loading conditions, and driving design robustness through predictive simulations and data-driven engineering judgment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following, other duties may be assigned:
  • Execute structural design validation for aircraft seating systems to demonstrate compliance with FAA, airframer, airline, and internal requirements using classical analytical methods, advanced finite element analysis (FEA), and supporting physical test evidence.
  • Perform linear and non-linear static analysis and dynamic crash simulations (e.g., 14G / 16G conditions) using LS-DYNA and equivalent solvers to assess structural integrity, occupant safety, and certification compliance.
  • Develop, own, and maintain finite element models by defining appropriate boundary conditions, material properties, load cases, and modeling techniques to realistically represent certification and operational scenarios.
  • Analyze and correlate physical test results with analytical models to validate assumptions, establish confidence in simulation accuracy, and support certification substantiation.
  • Provide technical guidance to certification programs through assessment of critical load cases, test configurations, and worst-case structural conditions in accordance with regulatory and customer requirements.
  • Drive structural design improvements by evaluating load paths, margins of safety, failure modes, and robustness across multiple configuration variants.
  • Collaborate with design engineering teams on development of new components and seat architectures by providing predictive analysis input and validation feedback to influence early design decisions.
  • Review and assess engineering drawings, MRB dispositions, concessions, and design deviations by performing structural impact assessments to ensure continued compliance with certification and structural integrity requirements.
  • Review and witness component qualification, certification, and abuse load tests by evaluating test plans, setups, and acceptance criteria.
  • Author and review technical analysis summaries and engineering substantiation documentation to support certification findings and internal technical reviews.

Requirements
Education/Experience:
  • A minimum of Four-year B.S. degree is required preferably in Aerospace / Mechanical / other engineering with at least 4 years' experience in aircraft interior products or a Master's degree preferably in Aerospace or Mechanical engineering with at least 2 years' experience in aircraft interior products.

Technical Skills and Experience Requirements
  • Organizational skills, self-motivation, a sense of urgency and sensitivity to deadlines, and detail-oriented style are required.
  • Evidence of ability to hand calculate generating reserve factors, at limit and ultimate load conditions using classical methods or methods described by Tom Rhodes.
  • Ability to learn independently
  • At minimum of 2 years of Finite element analysis experience is needed
  • At a minimum 1 year experience in ANSA or similar software and LS-Dyna software is required.
  • Knowledge of Ansys software is desired.
  • Experience in CATIA V4 or V5 or a similar program desired.
  • Experience in Certification is a plus.
  • Internship experience is preferred, but not required.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills are required.
  • The ability to work as part of a team in conjunction with more and or less experienced people.
  • Strong ethical persuasion to seek out the truth in a technical situation.
  • The wisdom to deal with technical challenges with tack and professionalism