1

Volunteer Finite Element Analysis Jobs in Riverside, CA

Proficiency with finite element analysis, particularly thermal analysis. * Experience with structural and thermo-mechanical simulation. * Experience with optical-mechanical analysis, optical ...

Proficiency with finite element analysis, particularly thermal analysis. * Experience with structural and thermo-mechanical simulation. * Experience with optical-mechanical analysis, optical ...

Proficiency with finite element analysis, particularly thermal analysis. * Experience with structural and thermo-mechanical simulation. * Experience with optical-mechanical analysis, optical ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Proficiency with finite element analysis, particularly thermal analysis. * Experience with structural and thermo-mechanical simulation. * Experience with optical-mechanical analysis, optical ...

Must be a self-starting and motivating individualProficient in Finite Element Analysis, prefer Ansys * Knowledge of current ASME standards and codes * Knowledge of machining practices, mills, lathes ...

Showing results 21-40

Volunteer Finite Element Analysis information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$8

$19

$35

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

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer finite element analysis in Riverside, CA is $19.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $21.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer finite element analysis?

A Volunteer Finite Element Analysis (FEA) refers to someone who offers their expertise in finite element modeling and simulation without compensation, often for non-profit organizations, research projects, or community initiatives. Their main role is to use FEA software to analyze and predict how products or structures will behave under various conditions. Volunteers may help with tasks such as building models, running simulations, interpreting results, and providing recommendations. This work supports teams that might lack the budget for professional FEA services while allowing the volunteer to gain experience and contribute to meaningful projects.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a volunteer finite element analysis engineer?

Success as a Volunteer Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Engineer requires a solid understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in FEA concepts, and often a degree in mechanical, civil, or related engineering fields. Familiarity with technical tools like ANSYS, Abaqus, or SolidWorks Simulation, and sometimes certification in FEA or related software, is typically expected. Outstanding problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear technical communication help differentiate top volunteers in this role. These skills ensure accurate analysis, effective collaboration, and valuable contributions to engineering projects, even in a volunteer capacity.

What are common challenges faced by volunteer finite element analysis professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Volunteer FEA professionals often encounter challenges such as limited access to software licenses, incomplete project data, and time constraints due to balancing volunteering with other commitments. To overcome these issues, volunteers can utilize open-source FEA tools, collaborate closely with team members to clarify requirements, and manage their time effectively by setting realistic deadlines. Regular communication with project leads ensures alignment and helps address technical hurdles early, fostering a supportive and productive volunteer environment.

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

AspectVolunteer Finite Element AnalysisMechanical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires knowledge of FEA software, engineering fundamentals, often self-taught or through coursesBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering, professional licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentVolunteer projects, research labs, non-profit organizations, often project-basedIndustry settings, manufacturing, design firms, offices, and labs
Industry UsageUsed in research, product testing, and academic projectsDesign, analysis, manufacturing, and product development

Volunteer Finite Element Analysis involves applying FEA techniques often on a volunteer basis for research or non-profit projects, requiring specific software knowledge but typically less formal credentials. Mechanical Engineers have formal degrees, industry experience, and often work in professional settings on product design and development. While both roles involve analysis, the main difference lies in the work environment, credentials, and scope of responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Volunteer Finite Element Analysis jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Volunteer Finite Element Analysis jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Volunteer Finite Element Analysis jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Volunteer Finite Element Analysis jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Volunteer Finite Element Analysis jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Volunteer Finite Element Analysis job openings:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Finite Element Analysis job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,527 per year, or $20 per hour.

$117K - $218K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Cadence Design Systems rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 247 rated software companies


Job description

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.

Job Title: Computational Structural Dynamicist

Role Overview

We are seeking an expert Computational Structural Dynamicist to develop solver capabilities for the automotive and aerospace industries. You will design, implement, and enhance advanced structural dynamics algorithms in MSC Nastran, Cadence Design System's flagship finite element program. A critical part of this role involves diving deep into our existing codebase to diagnose, isolate, and resolve complex numerical and algorithmic bugs

Key Responsibilities

  • Algorithm Development: Implement and optimize advanced structural dynamics capabilities into commercial FEA software.
  • Architecture & Design: Work closely with Product Management to translate automotive and aerospace requirements into robust software designs.
  • Mathematical Modeling: Apply high-level linear algebra techniques to solve complex engineering mechanics problems.
  • High-Performance Computing: Develop and optimize parallel code to ensure high-performance, bug-free execution on modern hardware.
  • Code Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Diagnose, debug, and resolve complex numerical and algorithmic issues within a large, production-grade legacy and modern Fortran codebase.

Required Qualifications

  • Education: PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mechanics or Civil Engineering.
  • FEA Expertise: Proven experience implementing, enhancing, and debugging algorithms inside a commercial-grade parallel finite element code.
  • Codebase Familiarity: High proficiency in C++, FORTRAN and Python, with comfort navigating, refactoring, and fixing bugs in the codebase.
  • Advanced Dynamics: Mastery of advanced structural dynamics, including transient, modal, frequency-response, and non-linear dynamic analyses.
  • Linear Algebra: Strong expertise in applied linear algebra for engineering mechanics (e.g., sparse solvers, eigenvalue problems).
  • Parallel Computing: Strong background in debugging and optimizing parallel programming paradigms (e.g., MPI, OpenMP).

Preferred Skills & Experience

  • Aerospace Disciplines: Knowledge of aeroelasticity (flutter, gust response) and rotor dynamics (jet engines, turbomachinery).
  • Automotive Disciplines: Knowledge of vibro-acoustics / NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) and powertrain.
  • Experience with modern software engineering practices, including regression testing, profiling tools, version control, and continuous integration.

The annual salary range for California is $117,600 to $218,400. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Sales positions generally offer a competitive On Target Earnings (OTE) incentive compensation structure. Please note that the salary range is a guideline and compensation may vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location. Our benefits programs include: paid vacation and paid holidays, 401(k) plan with employer match, employee stock purchase plan, a variety of medical, dental and vision plan options, and more.

We're doing work that matters. Help us solve what others can't.

What Cadence Design Systems employees say

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom