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Structural Analysis Engineer Jobs in Sunnyvale, CA

ARA

Dynamic Structural Analysis Engineer

Los Altos, CA · On-site

$79K - $130K/yr

The Silicon Valley Office (SVO) of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is looking for a Dynamic Structural Analysis Engineer to join our team. SVO is located in Los Altos, CA and is ARA's Center ...

Xona Space Systems, Inc

Structural Analyst

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Role Overview As a Structural Analyst on Xona's Mechanical and Thermal team, you'll own the ... Experience or interest in thermal analysis and collaborating closely with thermal engineers. For U.

LLNL

Mechanical - Structural Analyst

Livermore, CA

Perform structural and/or thermal analyses using in-house codes for design, modification ... Develop engineering analysis capability enhancements to achieve project deliverables, which may ...

LLNL

Mechanical - Structural Analyst

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

Perform structural and/or thermal analyses using in-house codes for design, modification ... Develop engineering analysis capability enhancements to achieve project deliverables, which may ...

LLNL

Mechanical - Structural Analyst

Livermore, CA · On-site

Perform structural and/or thermal analyses using in-house codes for design, modification ... Develop engineering analysis capability enhancements to achieve project deliverables, which may ...

Archer

Senior Structural Analyst - (SJ2026PC)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$187K - $197K/yr

Compile documentation of stress analysis to support release of engineering drawings and documents. * Work closely with and mentor designers and junior structural analysts in stress/stability/fracture ...

Archer

Senior Structural Analyst

San Jose, CA

$144K - $180K/yr

Compile documentation of stress analysis to support release of engineering drawings and documents * Work closely with and mentor designers and junior structural analysts in stress/stability/fracture ...

Astra Space, Inc.

Staff Structural Analyst

Alameda, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Act as a technical mentor and guide for analysis engineers. Develop training materials and conduct ... Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for structural dynamics and non-linear material behavior;

Archer

Rotor/Hub Structural Analyst

San Jose, CA · On-site

$144K - $180K/yr

Perform detailed structural analyses of dynamic system components, including the rotor system ... mechanical engineering, or related field * 5+ years of experience in design and analysis of ...

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All JobsStructural Analysis Engineer JobsStructural Analysis Engineer Jobs in Sunnyvale, CA

Structural Analysis Engineer information

See Sunnyvale, CA salary details

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How much do structural analysis engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural analysis engineer in Sunnyvale, CA is $76.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64.33 and $89.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Structural Analysis Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectStructural Analysis EngineerCivil Engineer
Primary FocusAnalyzing and designing structural components and systemsDesigning, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings
CertificationsFE/EIT, PE (Structural)FE/EIT, PE (Civil)
Work EnvironmentEngineering firms, construction sites, consultingConstruction sites, government agencies, consulting firms
Industry UsageCommon in structural design projectsBroader, includes structural but also transportation, environmental, and geotechnical

While both roles require engineering credentials and often work in similar environments, Structural Analysis Engineers specialize in analyzing and designing structural components, whereas Civil Engineers have a broader scope including infrastructure and environmental projects. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What does a structural analysis engineer do?

As a structural analysis engineer, you test equipment, buildings, and manufactured products to determine whether or not they meet performance goals, standards, regulations, and requirements. You may perform a stress test on various materials, monitor construction data, evaluate equipment or design blueprints, and otherwise help to ensure the final product is structurally sound. Most structural analysis engineers focus on building construction, but some work with aircraft, cars, or other heavy equipment instead. This job is highly time-sensitive because construction often cannot proceed until structural analysis checks are done. So, the ability to work quickly and efficiently is essential to success in this role.

What does a structural analysis engineer do?

A Structural Analysis Engineer is responsible for evaluating the strength, stability, and rigidity of structures such as buildings, bridges, aircraft, and other frameworks. They use mathematical models, computer simulations, and physical testing to ensure designs can withstand various loads and stresses during their lifespan. Their work helps prevent structural failures and ensures compliance with safety codes and standards. Structural Analysis Engineers often collaborate with architects, designers, and construction teams to optimize material use and design efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a structural analysis engineer?

To excel as a Structural Analysis Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or mechanical engineering, expertise in structural mechanics, and a relevant engineering degree, often with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA) software such as ANSYS or Abaqus, as well as CAD and simulation tools, is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills that help engineers interpret data and work collaboratively. These skills ensure the safe and efficient design, evaluation, and optimization of structures, which is critical for public safety and project success.

What are some common challenges faced by structural analysis engineers when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Structural Analysis Engineers often collaborate with teams from mechanical, electrical, and architectural disciplines. A common challenge is ensuring that structural requirements are balanced with other project needs, such as space constraints or integration with non-structural systems. Effective communication and early involvement in project planning help address potential conflicts and ensure that safety and performance standards are met without delays. Adaptability and strong teamwork skills are essential for navigating these complex, collaborative environments.
More about Structural Analysis Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Structural Analysis Engineer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA? For Structural Analysis Engineer jobs in Sunnyvale, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Sunnyvale, CA are hiring for Structural Analysis Engineer jobs? Cities near Sunnyvale, CA with the most Structural Analysis Engineer job openings:
Structural Analysis Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Analysis Engineer job openings in Sunnyvale, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $159,491 per year, or $76.7 per hour.

Dynamic Structural Analysis Engineer

ARA

Los Altos, CA • On-site

$79K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

The Silicon Valley Office (SVO) of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is looking for a Dynamic Structural Analysis Engineer to join our team. SVO is located in Los Altos, CA and is ARA's Center of Excellence in Nonlinear Dynamic Finite Element Analysis and regularly orchestrates a variety of full-scale testing projects. SVO conducts research and design for structures and materials applications, including crashworthiness and transportation safety, impact, penetration, and fracture and failure analysis. We specialize in complex multi-physics modeling of structures such as automotive, aerospace and rail vehicles, as well as civil structures, in challenging dynamic environments.
Job Location: Position is remote; preferred location is Los Altos, CA, with alignment to the Los Altos, CA ARA office or other ARA locations across the U.S.
Essential Functions:
  • Conduct finite element analyses (FEA) of challenging dynamic structural applications that include contact, nonlinear material behavior, transient heat transfer and fracture using the explicit finite element code LS-DYNA.
  • Construct finite element meshes of complicated geometries.
  • Assist in test planning and test data analysis with potential for onsite test support.
  • Develop digital twins of complex structural tests including test response, data analysis and comparison with simulations.
  • Perform engineering analyses on a variety of structures projects.
  • Identify and qualify new research and development opportunities with government and industry clients.
  • Conduct face-to-face meetings and prepare technical and cost proposals.

Education:
  • A Master's degree from an accredited college or university with major study in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Engineering Mechanics.
  • Graduate level GPA of at least 3.4/4.0.

Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience with finite element analysis (FEA).

  • Experience with Hypermesh FEA model preprocessors, CAD software such as Solidworks and the LS-DYNA FEA solver.

  • Experience with solid and/or liquid rocket propulsion.

  • Experience with implicit structural dynamics.

  • Experience with Unix/Linux/Windows operating systems and computer programming languages.
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance, which includes US citizenship.
  • Demonstrated excellent writing, presentation, and communication skills.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience with computational fluid dynamics and hypersonics
  • Experience with mechanical testing of materials and structures.
  • Experience with computational modeling of fluid-structure interaction

Compensation & Benefits: Pay Ranges: From $79,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year based on years of experience, degree and any special skills and knowledge that they may bring to the position. ARA offers competitive benefits that address our employees' needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our benefits at https://www.ara.com/benefits/
COMPANY INFORMATION:
Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM in 1979, employs over 2200 professionals and continues to grow. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.
At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, opportunities and autonomy to take active roles as employee owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are expected to advance new capabilities to support company's success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The core values "Passion, Freedom, Service and Growth" and the motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sum up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at www.ara.com.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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