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Finite Element Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Toyon

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Specialist

Goleta, CA · On-site

$130K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled analyst to perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of mechanical and electromechanical systems. Responsibilities * Support cross-discipline technical teams in technology ...

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Finite Element Analyst information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a finite element analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Finite Element Analyst, you need a strong background in engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or civil engineering. Expertise with finite element analysis (FEA) software such as ANSYS, Abaqus, or NASTRAN, along with proficiency in CAD tools and programming languages like Python or MATLAB, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interpreting results and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate simulations, reliable results, and effective problem-solving in complex engineering projects.

What does a finite element analyst do?

A Finite Element Analyst uses specialized software to simulate and analyze how products or structures will behave under various physical conditions, such as stress, heat, or vibration. They create detailed computer models and run simulations to predict performance, identify potential issues, and suggest design improvements. Their work helps engineers and designers ensure safety, reliability, and efficiency before a product is built or modified. Finite Element Analysts are essential in industries like automotive, aerospace, civil engineering, and manufacturing.

What is the difference between Finite Element Analyst vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectFinite Element AnalystMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Civil, or Aerospace Engineering; proficiency in FEA softwareBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; may include certifications in CAD or project management
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, simulation centers, engineering firmsManufacturing plants, design offices, R&D departments
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace, automotive, civil engineering, and product designBroadly across manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Finite Element Analysts focus on performing detailed simulations to analyze material behavior and structural integrity using specialized software. Mechanical Engineers have a broader role, including designing, testing, and overseeing mechanical systems. While both roles require engineering credentials and often overlap in industry settings, FEA Analysts specialize in simulation work, whereas Mechanical Engineers handle the entire design process.

How does a finite element analyst typically collaborate with design and engineering teams during a project?

Finite Element Analysts work closely with design and engineering teams throughout the product development cycle. They often participate in regular meetings to discuss design objectives, share simulation findings, and suggest modifications to improve product performance or manufacturability. Effective communication is essential, as analysts must translate complex simulation results into actionable insights for colleagues from different technical backgrounds. Collaboration ensures that analysis is aligned with overall project goals, and that any potential issues are addressed early in the development process.
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What states have the most Finite Element Analyst jobs? States with the most job openings for Finite Element Analyst jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Finite Element Analyst jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Finite Element Analyst jobs are:
Finite Element Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Finite Element Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Finite Element Analyst

Paligen Technologies, Inc.

Clearwater, FL

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Finite Element Analyst
Job Family: Engineering
Company: McCormick Stevenson
Location: Onsite - Clearwater, FL
McCormick Stevenson, subsidiary of Paligen Technologies, is seeking an experienced Engineering Analyst specializing in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) who will be responsible for using advanced computational tools to evaluate and optimize the structural, thermal, and dynamic performance of complex systems including aircraft, spacecraft, and military vehicles. This analyst will address challenges such as extreme operating conditions, high-performance materials, and strict regulatory standards. By simulating real-world scenarios, they will predict system behavior under various loads, enhance designs for manufacturability, and reduce development costs and timelines. Their expertise will directly contribute to the resilience, safety, and advancement of aerospace and defense technologies.
Key Responsibilities
  • Utilize Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and relevant/related hand calculations, to provide technical substantiation for mechanical design decisions.
  • Perform detailed finite element analysis (FEA) for structural, thermal, fluid, and/or dynamic systems.Prepare and mesh geometry for efficient accurate analysis.
    • Setup analysis models to represent environmental loads, boundary conditions, and realistic contacts.
    • Post-process and review analysis results to ensure accuracy and interpret results.
  • Develop and validate computational models to predict system behavior under various operating conditions.
  • Conduct material selection and characterization studies as part of the analysis.
  • Collaborate with internal design team and customers to refine designs and resolve engineering challenges.
  • Thoroughly document all work in compliance with customer and industry requirements.
  • Prepare and deliver comprehensive reports/presentations on your findings.
  • Develop scripts or tools to automate repetitive tasks in FEA workflows.
  • Actively participate in technical and program reviews, contributing valuable insights, expertise, and communication with the customer.
  • Conceive, plan, and develop new technical methods or approaches as warranted by advancements in state-of-the-art technology.
  • Develop Statements of Work, estimates, and project execution plans to complete analysis scope.
Required Skills and Qualifications
  • BS degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering from an accredited engineering college
  • A minimum of 10 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • A minimum 5 years of experience performing mechanical or aerospace structural analysis
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines, work efficiently under time constraints, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Professional written and verbal communication skills
  • Mastery of Microsoft Office PowerPoint, Word, Excel
  • Expertise in interpretation of engineering documentation
  • Mastery of Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) tool(s) such as ANSYS Classic, ANSYS Workbench, ANSYS Mechanical, ANSYS LS-Dyna, ANSYS Fluent, Siemens Simcenter, Nastran/Patran, or ABAQUS (ANSYS Preferred)
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD tools (SoldWorks, PTC Creo, or ANSYS SpaceClaim preferred)
  • Expertise in performing Structural, Dynamic, and Thermal Analyses
  • Expertise in performing first-order engineering calculations
  • Knowledge of Material Properties: material strength, fatigue, and durability properties
  • Must have the ability to obtain a Secret DoD clearance.
Preferred
  • Master’s degree or PhD in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
  • DoD Secret Clearance
  • Defense or Aerospace industry experience including military design and testing standards such as MIL-STD-810.
  • Experience performing the following types of analyses
    • Analysis of composite materials and composite structures.
    • Fracture or Impact Dynamics
Other Requirements
  • Travel: ~10%
  • Work Environment: Office
  • Background Investigation / Drug Screen / US person: Required.
Paligen Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value the unique skills and capabilities that our team members bring to our mission. We make all hiring and employment decisions based solely on individual qualifications, merit, and business needs. We strictly prohibit discrimination, ensuring a fair and objective selection process for all applicants.

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