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Senior Fea Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Sterling, VA

$103K - $136K/yr

... Sr. Mechanical Engineers at Dedrone have full design ownership over next generation cUAS ... Perform detailed mechanical analysis to ensure proper function through FEA, tolerance analysis ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$89K - $165K/yr

Senior Mechanical Engineer Requisition ID: 1783 Position Location: Sterling, VA Position Reports To ... FEA Analysis: Perform and review detailed structural and thermal analysis to validate design ...

New

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

... Sr. Mechanical Engineers at Dedrone have full design ownership over next generation cUAS ... Perform detailed mechanical analysis to ensure proper function through FEA, tolerance analysis ...

Sr Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$145K - $203K/yr

Demonstrated expertise in structural analysis, including hand calculations and FEA. * Proficiency ... D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. * Experience with the design and analysis of ...

Senior Mechanical Analyst

Herndon, VA · On-site

$107K - $141K/yr

... as ANSYS Mechanical for FEA analysis Environmental Testing & Validation Plan and support ... and engineering drawings using Creo Perform analysis-driven design iterations Collaborate with ...

Senior Blast Project Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$115K - $135K/yr

The Role We are seeking a Senior Project Engineer to join the Protective Design & Security Practice ... Proficiency with blast/FEA and structural analysis software (e.g., SAP2000, ETABS, ANSYS, LS-DYNA ...

Engineer

Temple Hills, MD · On-site

$45K - $65K/yr

This position involves collaborating closely with senior engineers to ensure projects meet ... Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA) and other simulation tools. * Knowledge of industry ...

Responsible for providing guidance and expertise in mechanical engineering to design complex ... Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software * Weight & Moment analysis * Static analysis * Commercial ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Fea Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$61.9K

$131.7K

$190.9K

How much do senior fea engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior fea engineer in Reston, VA is $131,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,700.00 and $149,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the senior FEA engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior FEA Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of finite element analysis principles, mechanical engineering concepts, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering. Expertise with FEA software such as ANSYS, Abaqus, or NASTRAN, along with proficiency in CAD tools and relevant industry certifications, is highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex findings to multidisciplinary teams are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure accurate simulations, effective collaboration, and innovative solutions in product design and structural analysis projects.

What are some common daily responsibilities for a senior FEA engineer?

A Senior FEA Engineer typically spends their workdays creating and validating finite element models, analyzing simulation results, and preparing detailed technical reports for project teams and stakeholders. You may collaborate closely with design engineers, project managers, and manufacturing teams to propose optimization solutions or address engineering challenges. Reviewing and mentoring the work of junior engineers and staying current with advancements in simulation tools are also common responsibilities. This role is highly collaborative, with frequent opportunities to influence product design decisions and ensure the structural integrity and performance of engineering solutions.

What is a senior FEA engineer?

A Senior FEA (Finite Element Analysis) Engineer is responsible for performing advanced structural, thermal, and mechanical simulations to evaluate product designs. They use finite element methods to analyze stress, strain, fatigue, and other performance factors, ensuring products meet safety and performance standards. They also collaborate with design, manufacturing, and testing teams to optimize designs and troubleshoot engineering challenges. Strong knowledge of FEA software (such as ANSYS or Abaqus) and industry standards is essential. This role typically requires several years of experience in structural analysis, material behavior, and computational modeling.

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Infographic showing various Senior Fea Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,664 per year, or $63.3 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer I

Rocket Lab Corporation

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

$108K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER I

As a Mechanical Engineer at Rocket Lab's Silver Spring, Maryland location, you will lead development of innovative and complex electromechanical systems from project concepting through production implementation on aggressive timelines. This facility manufactures satellite separation mechanisms. Rocket Lab's commitment to improving life on earth by going to space is built upon a foundation of hard-working and motivated individuals that collaborate, challenge, and have each other's backs. Join a driven team that's tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Lead schedule-aggressive development of innovative space mechanisms from concept through implementation as responsible engineer
  • Design mechanisms and structures in CAD and analyze using hand calcs and FEA
  • Lead requirements definition, traceability, compliance, verification, and system validation
  • Prepare and maintain technical documentation, such as system design descriptions, CONOPS and ICDs
  • Create and maintain requirements verification matrices and risk management plans
  • Support constant incremental improvements to the development team's engineering approach and best practices
  • Generate technical reports and presentations to communicate findings, progress, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and external partners
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure proper functionality across system interfaces and for end users
  • Own development schedules, project milestone reviews and technical interchange meetings
  • Mentor other engineers
  • Support business development proposals and custom SOWs
  • Support travel or off-site work to suppliers, customers, and other Rocket Lab sites, approximately 10%.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field
  • 5+ years experience in aerospace mechanical development projects
  • CAD and FEA proficiency
  • Thorough understandings of aerospace standards, environments, verification tests and requirements
  • Experience managing complex projects across organizational teams

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • MS in relevant engineering field
  • Proficiency in NX CAD and Simcenter FEA software
  • Strong task management, communication and problem solving skills
  • Experience adapting to changing priorities and quickly resolving blockers

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 7 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: discounted employee stock purchase program, flex schedule, free breakfast and lunch catered 2x/week, and free snacks/drinks.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (MD Only)
$100,000—$137,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.


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