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Finite Element Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LLNL

Mechanical - Structural Analyst

Livermore, CA · On-site

Contribute to the development of finite element analysis (FEA) models of mechanical components and contribute to the integration of the components into structural models at system level, * Perform ...

Zoomcar

Structural Analyst

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Develop, refine, and validate finite element models for metallic and composite structures ... Develop structural analysis plans, reports, and verification documentation to support design ...

Xona Space

Structural Analyst

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Develop, refine, and validate finite element models for metallic and composite structures ... Develop structural analysis plans, reports, and verification documentation to support design ...

Xona-Space-Systems

Structural Analyst

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Develop, refine, and validate finite element models for metallic and composite structures ... Develop structural analysis plans, reports, and verification documentation to support design ...

LLNL

Mechanical - Structural Analyst

Livermore, CA

Contribute to the development of finite element analysis (FEA) models of mechanical components and contribute to the integration of the components into structural models at system level, * Perform ...

LLNL

Mechanical - Structural Analyst

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

Contribute to the development of finite element analysis (FEA) models of mechanical components and contribute to the integration of the components into structural models at system level, * Perform ...

Industrious Ventures

Structural Analyst

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Develop, refine, and validate finite element models for metallic and composite structures ... Develop structural analysis plans, reports, and verification documentation to support design ...

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Finite Element Analyst information

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 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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

The top searched job categories for Finite Element Analyst jobs in California are:

Finite Element Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Finite Element Analyst job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Specialist

Toyon

Goleta, CA

$130K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description

US Citizenship is Required. Ability to qualify for a US Department of Defense security clearance required. Candidate must be SAP and SCI program eligible.


This position is in-person. This position is also available at Toyon's Huntsville, AL office. 


Toyon Research Corporation is an industry leader in the areas of complex space and missile systems analysis, aerothermodynamics, payload design and development, and ground and flight testing. 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 design, development, integration, and test
  • Collaborate with the Program Manager to define project objectives, timelines, and deliverables
  • Translate technical requirements into model inputs and load conditions necessary to validate the design
  • Validate designs using standard analysis tools and hand calculations
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize system performance and reliability in stressing operational environments
  • Provide technical recommendations to improve system effectiveness based on analytical insights
  • Guide technical decisions of engineering teams, fostering technical excellence
  • Deliver comprehensive technical briefings and progress updates to internal and external stakeholders
  • Collaborate with R&D teams and external partners to integrate emerging technologies into larger system-of-systems projects

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Aeronautical Engineering (Master's or Ph.D. preferred).
  • Minimum 5 years in aerospace or defense technology development
  • Expertise in Finite Element Analysis with tools such as ANSYS, ABAQUS, or NASTRAN
  • Proficient with CAD software to manipulate models and navigate data management systems.
  • Experience with SolidWorks and / or Creo preferred, with the ability to quickly achieve proficiency in both CAD packages as necessary
  • Knowledge of defense industry standards and compliance requirements

Desired Skills and Experience

  • Experience with the mechanical evaluation and validation of mechanical, electrical, and RF systems
  • Experience with correlating FEA models and empirical data
  • Experience with advanced mesh tools such as FeMap, Apex or Hyperworks

WE OFFER AN EXCEPTIONAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE!

  • Competitive Industry Pay
  • 100% Employer-Paid Medical Insurance Premium
  • HSA with Employer Contributions
  • Dental and Vision Coverage Options
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation and Sick leave
  • Company Funded 401(k) and Profit Sharing Plans
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Life and Disability Insurance  
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Discretionary Bonus Eligibility

The annual pay range for the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Specialist position is $130,000 to $200,000.


The posted pay range values provide the candidate with guidance on annual base compensation for the position, at a full time level of effort, exclusive of overtime, bonus, and benefits-related compensation, over a range of qualifications that may fit hiring objectives. Toyon Research Corporation will consider the individual candidate's education, work experience, applicable knowledge, skills and training, among other factors, when preparing an offer of employment. 


Equal Opportunity Employer including Disability and Veterans   


Applicant Privacy Notice 


Learn more about our company in our latest video, We are Toyon. 


The application window for this posting will remain open until the position is filled. 


Ref #2675-H

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