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Finite Element Analysis Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

ATMI PRECAST

Structural Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

As a Structural Engineer at ATMI, you will see your designs move from concept to construction and ... Conduct 3D finite element modeling and analysis for structural components * Anticipate and identify ...

Koch Industries

R&D Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$80K - $140K/yr

This role bridges product development, finite element analysis (FEA), signal integrity (SI ... S. Degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Computer Science/Engineering, Mathematics, and ...

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All JobsFinite Element Analysis Engineer JobsFinite Element Analysis Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Finite Element Analysis Engineer information

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$26

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$78

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for finite element analysis engineer in Chicago, IL is $55.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.57 and $64.13 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Finite Element Analysis Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,915 per year, or $55.2 per hour.

Senior Engineers, Research & Development

Gamma Technologies, LLC

Westmont, IL • On-site

$106.87 - $121.50/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Senior Engineers, Research & Development Job Duties

Senior Engineers, Research & Development for Westmont, IL location. Develop, enhance, test, and maintain rigid/flexible multi-body dynamics (MBD), kinematics, contact mechanics, and finite element method, constitutive material models applicable to dynamics, durability, noise, vibration, friction, and wear issues in powertrain, vehicle, and general mechanical subsystems as well as the control of these systems. Work, within a mature platform and mathematical solution architecture, on projects focused on performance, scalability, user-experience, and 3D visualization aspects of MBD models. Test computational models in the context of integrated simulations of real-life systems aimed at addressing customers’ product design, performance, and durability issues. Collaborate with other developers and application engineers on functional and I/O requirements and design of models. Adaptation of models to user requirements. Numerical methods for solving systems governed by ODEs and DAEs. Technical environment: finite element analysis and computational methods for solid mechanics and dynamics; Programming with a focus on scientific computing (Fortran, C, C++); computational mathematics prototyping tools (MATLAB); numerical analysis, including numerical integration/differentiation, linear algebra, eigenvalue analysis, nonlinear equations, optimization algorithms; Theory and implementation of numerical methods for solving systems governed by ODEs and DAEs with emphasis in the finite element method; Technologies for enhancement of model performance and scalability, including model reduction, sparse systems, and parallelization; commercial/research finite element tools.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or Civil Engineering or related field plus 2 years of experience in research in computational modeling of mechanical systems required. Required skills: finite element analysis and computational methods for solid mechanics and dynamics; Programming experience with a focus on scientific computing (Fortran, C, or C++); MATLAB or other computational mathematics prototyping tools; numerical analysis, including numerical integration/differentiation, linear algebra, eigenvalue analysis, nonlinear equations, optimization algorithms; Theory and implementation of numerical methods for solving systems governed by ODEs and DAEs with emphasis in the finite element method; Technologies for enhancement of model performance and scalability, such as model reduction, sparse systems, and parallelization; commercial/research finite element tools. Less than 5% travel to attend industry conferences and company sponsored trade shows required. Some telecommuting permitted. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and not require current or future employment visa sponsorship. $106,870/yr to $121,500/yr + Benefits: https://www.gtisoft.com/job-listing/

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