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Modal Analysis Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Whisper Aero

Senior Mechanical Test Engineer

Nashville, TN

$100K - $133K/yr

Develop and implement test plans, design efficient experiments, and perform specific tests such as static strain, modal analysis, radiated sound power, and propulsor characterization. * Select ...

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Modal Analysis information

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$41

How much do modal analysis jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for modal analysis in the United States is $27.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or senior executive roles in engineering firms can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, and may include bonuses or profit sharing.

What are some typical challenges faced by engineers working in modal analysis roles, and how can they be addressed?

Engineers specializing in modal analysis often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex vibration data, ensuring accurate boundary conditions in simulations, and correlating test results with analytical models. To address these, it's important to have a strong foundation in structural dynamics, proficiency with specialized software (like ANSYS or MATLAB), and effective communication skills to collaborate with design and testing teams. Regularly reviewing test setups and engaging in cross-functional meetings can help ensure alignment between simulation predictions and experimental outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Modal Analysis Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Modal Analysis Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or structural engineering, vibration theory, and dynamics, usually supported by an engineering degree. Proficiency with finite element analysis (FEA) software, data acquisition systems, and modal analysis tools like LMS Test.Lab or ME'scope is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help interpret data and present findings to multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities ensure accurate assessment of structural behavior, guiding design improvements and ensuring safety and reliability in engineering projects.

What is modal analysis?

Modal analysis is a technique used to determine the natural vibration characteristics of a structure or a mechanical component. It identifies the natural frequencies, mode shapes, and damping ratios of the system, which are critical for predicting how the structure will respond to dynamic loads. Engineers use modal analysis to prevent resonance, reduce vibrations, and improve the safety and performance of buildings, vehicles, and machinery. This process can be performed experimentally or through computer simulations using finite element analysis (FEA) tools.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In the field of modal analysis, high-paying roles such as freelance consultants or specialized engineers can sometimes earn around $4,000 weekly without a formal degree, especially with extensive experience, strong technical skills, and industry certifications. These roles often involve consulting, project-based work, or contract positions in engineering firms or manufacturing environments. Success in such jobs depends on expertise, reputation, and the ability to secure high-value projects.

What is the difference between Modal Analysis vs Structural Engineer?

AspectModal AnalysisStructural Engineer
Primary FocusAnalyzing vibrational modes and dynamic behavior of structuresDesigning, analyzing, and ensuring the safety of structures
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, specialized training in vibration analysisEngineering degree, professional engineering license
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, simulation software, testing facilitiesConstruction sites, design offices, project sites
Industry UsageEngineering analysis, product development, researchConstruction, infrastructure, building design

While Modal Analysis focuses on understanding the vibrational characteristics of structures, Structural Engineers are responsible for designing and ensuring the safety of those structures. Both roles require engineering credentials, but their work environments and primary objectives differ significantly.

What does modal analysis do?

Modal analysis is a process used by engineers and analysts to determine the natural vibration modes and frequencies of a structure or component. It helps identify how a structure responds to dynamic forces, aiding in design optimization and failure prevention. Professionals often use specialized software and measurement tools to perform this analysis accurately.

Is vibration analysis a good career?

Vibration analysis is a specialized field within engineering and maintenance that involves diagnosing equipment issues through the study of vibration patterns. It is a growing industry that requires knowledge of mechanical systems, sensors, and data analysis tools, often supported by certifications such as those from the Machinery Failure Prevention Technology (MFPT). Careers in vibration analysis can offer stable employment opportunities in manufacturing, energy, and aerospace sectors, with a focus on predictive maintenance and reliability engineering.
More about Modal Analysis jobs
What job categories do people searching Modal Analysis jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Modal Analysis jobs are:
Modal Analysis jobs near you
Infographic showing various Modal Analysis job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,107 per year, or $27.9 per hour.
Engineer II, Structural Analysis (R4952)

Engineer II, Structural Analysis (R4952)

Shield AI

San Diego, CA • On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
Job Description:
Shield AI is seeking an Engineer II, Structural Analysis to support the structural analysis and testing of advanced UAVs. In this role, you will work closely with Mechanical, Systems, Propulsion, and Aerospace Engineers to ensure the structural integrity of our lightweight, high-performance aircraft. You will contribute to the design, analysis, testing, and optimization of airframe structures and components, ensuring they meet performance, weight, and safety requirements.
This role is ideal for engineers with 2+ years of experience looking to gain expertise in finite element analysis (FEA), composite materials, mechanical testing, and aircraft loads analysis in a fast-paced, high-tech aerospace environment.
What you'll do:
  • Assist in building and refining finite element models (FEM) to evaluate the structural performance of UAV components.
  • Perform static, modal, fatigue, and vibration analyses to assess stress, deformation, and durability.
  • Conduct hand calculations to validate FEA results, ensuring accuracy and structural reliability.
  • Work with design engineers to optimize airframe structures, balancing weight, strength, and manufacturability.
  • Support the development of test plans for structural validation, including quasi-static, vibration, and shock testing.
  • Analyze flight telemetry and structural test data to improve modeling accuracy and correlate predictions with real-world performance.
  • Assist in defining load cases, material properties, and design margins for UAV airframe and mechanical components.
  • Document and present structural analysis reports and technical recommendations to engineering teams.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure structural requirements align with system performance goals.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of structural analysis methodologies, tools, and best practices.

Required qualifications:
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in structural analysis, finite element modeling, or aircraft loads analysis.
  • Experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, NASTRAN, HyperWorks, or similar).
  • Strong ability to perform hand calculations for structural strength, stability, and fatigue analysis.
  • Knowledge of composite materials and lightweight aerospace structures.
  • Familiarity with mechanical testing methods (static, vibration, and fatigue).
  • Proficiency with data analysis tools (Excel, MATLAB, Python, or similar).
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a team environment.
  • Ability to get a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
  • Experience in aircraft structural design, UAV airframe development, or aerospace testing.
  • Hands-on experience with structural testing, modal analysis, or composite modeling.
  • Exposure to CAD software (NX, SolidWorks) and PLM tools (Teamcenter or similar).
  • Understanding of aerospace industry standards, structural certification processes, and material selection.

$92,462 - $138,694 a year
#LI-MS1
#LB
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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