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Freelance Finite Element Analysis Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Xona Space Systems, Inc

Structural Analyst

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Proficiency with finite element analysis software (Femap/Nastran preferred) * Experience developing finite element models and applying analytical methods to support structural design decisions

Xona Space

Structural Analyst

Burlingame, CA · On-site

Proficiency with finite element analysis software (Femap/Nastran preferred) * Experience developing finite element models and applying analytical methods to support structural design decisions

Xona-Space-Systems

Structural Analyst

Burlingame, CA · On-site

Proficiency with finite element analysis software (Femap/Nastran preferred) * Experience developing finite element models and applying analytical methods to support structural design decisions

System One

Senior Structural Analyst

Bellevue, WA · Remote

This role is responsible for performing structural and finite element analysis (FEA) of reactor structures, vessels, nuclear island components, and high-temperature mechanical systems operating in ...

System One

Senior Structural Analyst

Bellevue, WA · Remote

This role is responsible for performing structural and finite element analysis (FEA) of reactor structures, vessels, nuclear island components, and high-temperature mechanical systems operating in ...

System One

Senior Structural Analyst

Bellevue, WA · Remote

This role is responsible for performing structural and finite element analysis (FEA) of reactor structures, vessels, nuclear island components, and high-temperature mechanical systems operating in ...

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Freelance Finite Element Analysis information

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

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance finite element analysis in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance finite element analysis specialist?

A Freelance Finite Element Analysis (FEA) specialist is an independent professional who uses FEA software to simulate and analyze how products or structures respond to real-world forces, such as heat, vibration, and stress. They work on a contract basis, providing their expertise to companies or individuals who need detailed engineering simulations without hiring a full-time employee. Freelance FEA specialists often have backgrounds in mechanical, civil, or aerospace engineering and are skilled in software like ANSYS, Abaqus, or SolidWorks Simulation.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or structural engineering, strong mathematical skills, and experience with simulation methodologies, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with FEA software such as ANSYS, Abaqus, or SolidWorks Simulation, and familiarity with CAD tools and industry standards, is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, time management, and client communication skills distinguish top freelancers in this role. These competencies are crucial for delivering accurate, timely analyses and building strong client relationships in a competitive freelance market.

What are some common challenges freelance finite element analysis specialists face when managing multiple projects?

Freelance Finite Element Analysis (FEA) specialists often juggle several projects simultaneously, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. Each client may have unique requirements, deadlines, and software preferences, requiring adaptability and strong communication skills. Additionally, freelancers are responsible for their own troubleshooting and quality assurance, as they typically lack the immediate support of a larger engineering team. Building effective workflows and clear communication channels with clients is key to overcoming these challenges and delivering high-quality results.

What is the difference between Freelance Finite Element Analysis vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectFreelance Finite Element AnalysisMechanical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires specialized certifications or training in FEA softwareBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, professional licensure optional
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, often remoteIn-house or consulting, often in office or lab settings
Industry UsageUsed across engineering sectors for simulation tasksDesign, development, and testing of mechanical systems
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on specialized simulation skillsBroader engineering roles and responsibilities

Freelance Finite Element Analysis specialists focus on providing simulation services independently, often with specialized software skills, while Mechanical Engineers have a broader role in designing and developing mechanical systems, typically within organizations. Both roles require engineering knowledge, but their work scope and environment differ significantly.

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Freelance Finite Element Analysis jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Finite Element Analysis job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Structural Analyst

Burlingame, CA • On-site

Xona Space Systems, Inc
Library and Information Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Xona Space Systems, Incexternal

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform structural analyses of aerospace components and assemblies using finite element analysis (FEA) and classical hand calculations

  • Support the design and optimization of primary and secondary structures for strength, stiffness, fatigue, and stability requirements

  • Develop structural analysis plans, reports, and verification documentation to support design reviews and flight qualification

Job description

Xona is the navigational intelligence company bringing real-time, centimeter-level certainty to any device, anywhere on Earth.
With Pulsar - the world's most advanced PNT satellite infrastructure in Low Earth Orbit - Xona will offer a future-proof, backwards-compatible global positioning system optimized for absolute precision, superior power, and robust protection.
Role Overview
As a Structural Analyst on Xona's Mechanical and Thermal team, you'll own the structural analysis, sizing, and verification of spacecraft hardware from early concept development through qualification testing and production release. From detailed component breakout models to full system models, your work will ensure the mechanical designs meet the strength, stiffness, and performance requirements needed to deliver Xona's high-accuracy and high-precision PNT service.
This is a high-ownership, fast-moving role with significant responsibility for progressing designs forward on schedule, writing clear documentation, and supporting hands-on test operations. Success in this role requires operating with a high degree of ownership, collaborating across disciplines, anticipating challenges before they arise, and driving work forward with minimal oversight.
Responsibilities
  • Perform structural analyses of aerospace components and assemblies using finite element analysis (FEA) and classical hand calculations
  • Support the design and optimization of primary and secondary structures for strength, stiffness, fatigue, and stability requirements
  • Develop, refine, and validate finite element models for metallic and composite structures
  • Evaluate structural performance under static, dynamic, thermal, vibration, and launch or flight loading conditions
  • Develop structural analysis plans, reports, and verification documentation to support design reviews and flight qualification.
  • Support design reviews by communicating analytical results, assumptions, margins, and recommendations to multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Work closely with design, manufacturing, test, and systems engineers to improve structural performance while meeting mass, cost, and schedule targets
  • Interpret test data and correlate analytical models with experimental results
  • Support root-cause investigations and structural assessments for hardware anomalies and test failures

Required Qualifications
  • BS or MS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
  • 1+ years of structural analysis experience (or equivalent internship, research, or university project experience)
  • Proficiency with finite element analysis software (Femap/Nastran preferred)
  • Experience developing finite element models and applying analytical methods to support structural design decisions
  • Demonstrated understanding of structural sizing and designing for minimum mass while maintaining adequate strength and stiffness margins
  • Experience performing strength assessments for metallic structures and mechanical joints
  • Demonstrated ability to independently drive technical work, solve engineering problems, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment
  • Willing and able to travel to support off-site testing as needed

Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience developing, building, and testing spacecraft hardware, including ownership from initial design through qualification and production handoff.
  • Experience supporting engineering trade studies involving structural architecture, material selection, composites, mass optimization, manufacturability, and cost.
  • Experience supporting spacecraft structural verification, including environmental testing (quasi-static, random vibration, sine vibration, acoustic, shock), test planning, sensor selection, force limiting, and test execution.
  • Experience correlating finite element models with structural test data.
  • Ability to review and work directly with CAD geometry (SolidWorks preferred).
  • Experience developing analysis automation tools using the Femap API, Python, MATLAB, or similar scripting languages.
  • Experience or interest in thermal analysis and collaborating closely with thermal engineers.

For U.S. Roles: To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States (i.e. Green Card holder), or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
For U.K. Roles: To comply with U.K. regulations, this role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks, and successful candidates must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC).
For Canada Roles: Successful candidates must obtain and hold a security clearance at the reliability status level, and pass security assessment for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and ITAR.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

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