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Volunteer Finite Element Analysis Jobs in Rochester, MI

Apply Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for design optimization * Generate technical drawings and engineering documentation * Prepare and present project status reports * Support test design, development ...

Ability to explain signal processing for biosignals, finite element analysis, drug delivery systems, and medical device design principles while preparing students for biomedical engineering ...

Build and update full vehicle crash finite element models using ANSA and PRIMER . * Perform structural and occupant safety analysis using LS-Dyna to evaluate crashworthiness for various Regulatory ...

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Volunteer Finite Element Analysis information

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$7

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

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer finite element analysis in Rochester, MI is $17.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $18.61 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 Rochester, MI?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Volunteer Finite Element Analysis jobs in Rochester, MI are:

What cities near Rochester, MI are hiring for Volunteer Finite Element Analysis jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MI with the most Volunteer Finite Element Analysis job openings:

Thermal CAE Engineer - GM Defense

General Motors

Warren, MI • On-site

Other

Re-posted 22 hours ago


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8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

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Based on 306 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

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Based on 6,279 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description
The Role
Thermal CAE Engineer will be responsible for capturing information from a variety of sources inside and outside of GM Defense, building and running analytical models, interpreting results for customers, attending development team meetings, interacting with compartment integration teams and help to drive the design that meets internal and external requirements.
Thermal CAE Engineer will build, run, and interpret results from various thermal models ranging in complexity from a single component to complex full vehicle systems. The engineer will be an employee within a diverse group of engineers supporting the virtual analysis needs of GM Defense. The engineer will be interacting with the GM thermal analysis groups, performing airflow and thermal simulations of varying complexity. The engineer will drive the design of unique vehicles and systems intended for government applications using virtual analysis tools.
What You'll Do
  • Estimate propulsion heat rejection and determine air flow requirements for cooling system applications
  • Size cooling systems and determine cooling capacity required and air flow requirements for system condensers
  • Evaluate system exteriors with focus on cooling air flow and sealing using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models (front end cooling, passenger compartment)
  • Evaluate propulsion systems cooling and AC system performance using various simulations tools
  • Perform vehicle level CFD simulations to lead the design of the vehicle for thermal management
  • Develop and support novel approaches for analysis in controls, thermal integration, and controls co-sim development
  • Perform finite element and flow analysis on cooling system and plumbing components
  • Pro-actively develop simulations for new programs based on vehicle content and functional objectives
  • Post process and interpret simulation results to identify current performance gaps and develop solutions to improve performance
  • Daily use of several commercial CFD codes, solvers and supporting software in Windows, LINUX/UNIX and HPC environment. These include ANSA, STAR-CCM+, GT-Suites, MATLAB SIMULINK, and other Internal Codes.
  • Interface and collaborate with Studio and Engineering Teams, present numerical and visual data, and recommendations effectively, to ensure component and system level performance requirements are achieved
  • Fully engage in vehicle development activity and proactively take ownership of simulation activity to best guide the design team
  • Be willing to question the status quo and work to develop new methods and tools to streamline the defense toolkit in the thermal space

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering with coursework in Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, Fluid Mechanics and Finite Element Analysis
  • 5+ years of professional experience.
  • Experience and coursework in Lumped-Parameter Network Solvers, CFD methodology and application
  • Theoretical background in propulsion plant modeling for controls algorithm development in GT-suites and MATLAB/Simulink as inputs to thermal model
  • Experience with computer tools, 3D CAD files, CAE methods and Experimental Data
  • Familiarity with Aerodynamic and Climatic Wind Tunnel testing, measurement techniques and data systems
  • Experience using commercial CFD solvers such as FLUENT, STAR-CCM+, EXA-POWERFLOW, Mesh generators such as ANSA, HYPERWORKS and FEA Codes such as NASTRAN and ABAQUS

What Will Give You A Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)
  • Masters or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with focus on Thermal Sciences
  • Mathematical modeling and analysis of various subsystems of both conventional and electric vehicle powertrain using state-of-the-art analytical tools, including STAR-CCM+, MATLAB/Simulink and co-sim environments
  • Modeling, simulation, and validation of open and closed loop system models in desktop simulation and HIL hardware
  • Adapt System models (e.g. MATLAB/Simulink ) for real time execution in a Model-in-loop, software-in-loop system
  • Experience in design/release of automotive thermal systems
  • DFSS training, Green Belt or beyond
  • Comfortable with an ever-changing environment, flexible in skillset, willing to learn and can handle ambiguous assignments

#GMD
GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc).This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}.This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.The position is subject to export control restrictions and requires the successful candidate to be either a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, asylee or refugee) or a non-U.S. Person who is eligible to obtain any required export control authorization.
About GM
Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.
Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Benefits Overview
From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.
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General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.
All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
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About General Motors

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General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908