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Freelance Finite Element Analysis Fea Engineer Jobs

Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as NASTRAN, ABAQUS, and OptiStruct ... Automotive Engineering * Crashworthiness * Durability * NVH * Manufacturing Processes Tools ...

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

Develop finite element analysis (FEA) models of nuclear weapon systems, perform rigorous FEA of the systems, make engineering judgments on the system performances, and provide engineering resolutions ...

Develop finite element analysis (FEA) models of nuclear weapon systems, perform rigorous FEA of the systems, make engineering judgments on the system performances, and provide engineering resolutions ...

Develop finite element analysis (FEA) models of nuclear weapon systems, perform rigorous FEA of the systems, make engineering judgments on the system performances, and provide engineering resolutions ...

In this role, you will combine first-principles engineering, analytical modeling, rigid-body dynamics, and finite element analysis (FEA) to guide product architecture from concept through mass ...

... Conduct finite element modeling (FEA), static stress, fatigue and damage tolerance, thermal ... analytical models and engineering calculations to validate structural designs. • Support ...

In this role, you will combine first-principles engineering, analytical modeling, rigid-body dynamics, and finite element analysis (FEA) to guide product architecture from concept through mass ...

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Freelance Finite Element Analysis Fea Engineer information

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance finite element analysis fea engineer in the United States is $33.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.92 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance finite element analysis (FEA) engineer do?

A Freelance Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Engineer specializes in using FEA software to simulate and analyze the physical behavior of structures and components under various conditions. Their work involves creating detailed models, applying loads and boundary conditions, and interpreting results to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with engineering standards. Freelance FEA Engineers often assist clients across industries such as automotive, aerospace, civil engineering, and manufacturing, offering flexible project-based solutions. They are skilled in software like ANSYS, Abaqus, and SolidWorks Simulation, providing valuable insights that help optimize designs and reduce development costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance finite element analysis (FEA) engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance FEA Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, advanced knowledge of finite element analysis principles, and often a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in FEA software such as ANSYS, Abaqus, or SolidWorks Simulation, along with familiarity with CAD tools and possibly certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), is typically expected. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help you deliver clear results to clients and manage multiple projects independently. These skills ensure accurate analyses, effective client interactions, and the successful completion of complex engineering projects.

What are some common challenges freelance FEA engineers face when collaborating remotely with clients and teams?

Freelance FEA engineers often work with clients and project teams who may be located in different regions or time zones, which can make communication and alignment challenging. Clearly defining project requirements, milestones, and feedback loops is essential to ensure expectations are met and revisions are minimized. Additionally, freelancers must be proactive in managing data security, sharing large simulation files, and keeping their software and skills up to date to remain competitive. Building strong relationships and maintaining professionalism in all communications can help overcome these challenges and lead to successful long-term collaborations.
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Infographic showing various Freelance Finite Element Analysis Fea Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,055 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Exterior Structures CAE Engineer

Jobtailor

Dearborn, MO • On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

  • Perform linear and nonlinear finite element analysis on automotive body structures, chassis components, and subsystems to evaluate strength, stiffness, durability, NVH, and crashworthiness performance
  • Apply CAE tools throughout the design cycle to support design decisions, identify potential structural issues early, and recommend design improvements
  • Conduct structural topology, topography, size, and shape optimization studies to achieve mass reduction targets while meeting performance and manufacturing constraints
  • Build and refine finite element models, including meshing, material assignment, boundary conditions, and load cases, for complex structural assemblies
  • Utilize multi-disciplinary optimization processes to balance mass, stiffness, durability, and cost
  • Correlate CAE predictions with physical test data and refine modeling methods and assumptions to improve simulation accuracy
  • Collaborate with design engineers, test engineers, and program managers to communicate analysis results and recommendations
  • Document analysis methodologies, assumptions, and results in technical reports and design review presentations
  • Support root-cause investigations for structural performance issues identified during testing or field use
  • Stay current with industry best practices, emerging simulation methods, and software capabilities in structural CAE and optimization
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related engineering discipline (required)
  • 3 years of relevant industry experience in automotive or related structural CAE applications
  • Familiarity with design of experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis methods
  • Experience supporting vehicle programs from concept through production launch
  • Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as NASTRAN, ABAQUS, and OptiStruct
  • Experience applying FEA tools for linear statics, modal, buckling, fatigue, and/or nonlinear analysis
  • Hands-on experience using OptiStruct and modeFRONTIER or similar tools for structural optimization, including topology, topography, size, and shape optimization
  • Experience with multi-disciplinary design optimization (MDO) processes and workflows
  • Familiarity with pre/post-processing tools such as HyperMesh, HyperView, and ANSA
  • Understanding of automotive structural design requirements, including durability, crashworthiness, and NVH considerations
  • Working knowledge of manufacturing processes and their impact on structural design, including stamping, casting, and joining methods
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position
Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in finite element analysis (FEA) and structural optimization within the automotive industry, utilizing advanced CAE tools to enhance design performance and durability. Proficient in collaborating with cross-functional teams to communicate analysis results and support design improvements.

Highest-signal resume keywords
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
  • Structural Optimization
  • Multi-Disciplinary Design Optimization (MDO)
  • Nastran
  • Abaqus
ATS Optimization Keywords Hard Skills
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
  • Structural Optimization
  • Design of Experiments (DOE)
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Linear Statics Analysis
  • Modal Analysis
  • Buckling Analysis
  • Fatigue Analysis
  • Topology Optimization
  • Shape Optimization
Soft Skills
  • Collaboration
  • Communication
  • Problem-Solving
Industry Keywords
  • Automotive Engineering
  • Crashworthiness
  • Durability
  • NVH
  • Manufacturing Processes
Tools & Technologies
  • OptiStruct
  • ModeFRONTIER
  • HyperMesh
  • HyperView
  • ANSA
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