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Finite Element Analysis Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Conduct finite element modeling (FEA), static stress, fatigue and damage tolerance, thermal, vibration, and structural analyses. Develop analytical models and engineering calculations to validate ...

Lead Structural Analysis Engineer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

The successful candidate has advanced knowledge in classical and finite element analysis ... Our engineers collaborate closely across multiple technical disciplines and organizations to ...

The successful candidate has advanced knowledge in classical and finite element analysis ... Our engineers collaborate closely across multiple technical disciplines and organizations to ...

The successful candidate has advanced knowledge in classical and finite element analysis ... Our engineers collaborate closely across multiple technical disciplines and organizations to ...

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Finite Element Analysis Engineer information

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$25

$53

$76

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 the United States is $53.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.27 and $62.26 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.

More about Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Finite Element Analysis Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Finite Element Analysis Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Finite Element Analysis Engineer job openings in the United States 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 $111,552 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Analysis Engineer II (Spacecraft)

Firefly Aerospace

Cedar Park, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Firefly Aerospace rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT FIREFLY AEROSPACE

Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company on a mission to reliably and repeatedly launch, land, and operate space systems from Earth to the Moon and beyond. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the first commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the first company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.

SUMMARY

As a Analysis Engineer on the Mechanical Engineering Team, you will be responsible for analysis of various structures across multiple projects including spacecraft, launch vehicle structures, and launch and test ground support equipment. You will use your knowledge of structural analysis to improve previous designs and influence new designs by minimizing weight and at the same time ensuring conformance to program and customer strength and stability requirements. You will leverage testing of hardware to correlate and validate analysis models.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and test engineering to develop hardware throughout the design lifecycle
  • Perform structural analyses by classical hand calculation and finite element analysis for composites and metals.
  • Perform linear and non-linear structural analysis, eigenvalue buckling analysis, non-linear buckling analysis, and modal finite element analysis using ANSYS and NX Nastran.
  • Develop test requirements to ensure adequate data for analysis correlation.
  • Validate finite element analysis with hand calculations and test data.
  • Review internal and external analyses.
  • Work with responsible and systems engineers to define required material properties and part modifications to meet structural requirements.
  • Write strength and stability margins to required program safety factors.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

  • Master’s Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or civil engineering and 2+ years of relevant experience, or 5+ years with a Bachelor’s Degree.
  • Proficient with analytical simulation software and hand calculations for structural analysis.
  • Familiarity with aerospace standard analysis methods.
  • Ability to effectively work in a multi-discipline team and provide technical guidance and insight.
  • Exceptional comprehension of first principles related to structures and materials.

Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, educational reimbursement, short term disability, and flexible PTO options.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.


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