Dynamic Structural Analysis Engineer

Applied Research Associates, Inc.; Los Altos (CA); Remote; USD 79,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

Ara is seeking a Dynamic Structural Analysis Engineer in Los Altos, CA. This role involves conducting finite element analyses and developing digital twins for structural tests. Candidates must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field, a minimum of 2 years of experience in FEA, and skills in various software tools such as LS-DYNA and Solidworks. The position offers a salary range of $79,000 to $130,000, depending on experience. ARA values innovation and offers a competitive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience with finite element analysis (FEA).
• Experience with solid and/or liquid rocket propulsion.
• Experience with implicit structural dynamics.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance.
• Demonstrated excellent writing, presentation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct finite element analyses (FEA) of challenging dynamic structural applications.
• Construct finite element meshes of complicated geometries.
• Assist in test planning and test data analysis.
• Develop digital twins of complex structural tests.
• Perform engineering analyses on a variety of structural projects.

Skills

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Hypermesh FEA Model Preprocessors

Solidworks

LS-DYNA

Unix/Linux/Windows OS

Computer Programming

Writing Skills

Presentation Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Engineering Mechanics

Graduate level GPA of at least 3.4/4.0

Tools

Finite Element Code LS-DYNA

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Software

Job description

Job Summary

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.

Responsibilities

• 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 structural 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.