Aerospace Mechanical Engineer - Structural/Thermal

Associates Systems LLC; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 96,432 - 137,760; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Higher hourly compensation ($70-100/hr)

4-day working schedule

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Houston seeks a Mechanical Engineering Analyst to ensure functionality and reliability of complex mechanical systems. This role involves performing advanced simulations and analysis using FEA software, contributing to design optimization, and producing technical reports. The ideal candidate has a degree in Mechanical Engineering and experience with software like ANSYS and SolidWorks. Compensation is competitive with a 4-day work week, providing an excellent work-life balance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Expert knowledge of FEA software and CAD integration.
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills essential for problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis including static and dynamic simulations.
• Conduct thermal and tolerance stack-up analyses.
• Utilize FEA tools for design optimization and failure prediction.

Skills

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Structural mechanics

Thermal analysis

Mathematical proficiency

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS Mechanical

Abaqus

COMSOL Multiphysics

SolidWorks

NX

CATIA

Job description

Mechanical Engineering Analyst

US Citizen or Green Card Holder

The team operates on a 4-day / 29-hour schedule (3 full days + 1 half day), with higher hourly compensation ($70-100/hr) to balance the shorter week.

As a Mechanical Engineering Analyst, you will be responsible for ensuring the structural integrity, thermal performance, and functional reliability of complex mechanical systems. You will utilize Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and analytical methodologies to validate designs before production, identifying potential failure modes and optimizing performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Structural Analysis (Static & Dynamic): Perform detailed static structural simulations to evaluate stress, strain, and deformation under various operational loads. Execute dynamic analyses, including modal, vibration, and shock testing simulations to assess frequency response and structural resonance.
• Thermal Analysis: Conduct steady-state and transient thermal simulations to evaluate heat transfer, temperature distribution, and thermal-induced stresses in mechanical assemblies.
• Tolerance Stack-Up Analysis: Perform rigorous 1D, 2D, or 3D tolerance stack-up analyses using worst-case and statistical (RSS) methods to ensure proper fit, function, and manufacturability.
• Simulation & Optimization: Utilize FEA tools to identify weight reduction opportunities and optimize design geometry without compromising safety factors or structural performance.
• Failure Prediction: Conduct root cause analysis on equipment failures and provide data-driven recommendations for countermeasures and design modifications.
• Technical Reporting: Document all analysis findings, including assumptions, boundary conditions, and results, in formal technical reports for peer review and customer certification.
• Systems Integration: Interpret mechanical hardware requirement specifications from interfacing systems and analyze concept trade studies by providing mechanical expertise to evaluate design options. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical, systems, and quality engineers, to ensure project success.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field from an accredited university or college.
• Software Proficiency: Expert knowledge of FEA software such as ANSYS Mechanical, Abaqus, or COMSOL Multiphysics. Experience with CAD integration (e.g., SolidWorks, NX, or CATIA) is essential.
• Analytical Foundations: Deep understanding of structural mechanics, multi body thermodynamics, and material science. Demonstrated experience conducting trade studies for mechanical design optimization.
• Mathematical Proficiency: Strong skills in numerical analysis and computational thinking for complex problem-solving. Competent with basic engineering calculations for stress, thermal, and dynamic analysis.
• Communication: Ability to communicate highly technical analysis results to non-technical stakeholders and cross-functional design teams. Contribute to safety documentation as required.
• Performing other duties as assigned to support project objectives.
• Minimal travel required; occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary to meet project deadlines.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with sound engineering judgment.
• Highly dependable, self-motivated, and accountable, with the ability to work effectively in a team or independently.
• U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder). Must successfully complete a U.S. government background check.

Desired Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) licenseorEngineer-In-Training (EIT) status.
• Proficiency in scripting/automation tools such asPythonorMATLABfor data processing.
• Certified SOLIDWORKS Simulation Professional (CSWP-S) and experience with SolidWorks PDM.
• Proficiency with Thermal Desktop.
• Experience designing, analyzing, and testing hardware for extreme environments (e.g., space, high-temperature, or high-vibration conditions).
• Familiarity with industry standards for mechanical design, manufacturing, and testing in aerospace or spaceflight applications.

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