FEA Analyst / Mechanical Engineer (Remote)

Zen Sherpa LLC; Little Canada (MN); Remote; USD 130,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Compensation

Generous Time Off

401(k) plan

Comprehensive health coverage

Disability plans

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Senior Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Analyst to support advanced engineering simulations for complex machinery. This remote role involves performing FEA simulations, leading mechanical design efforts, and improving structural mechanics. Candidates should have a strong background in mechanical engineering with at least 10 years of experience, particularly in cranes and heavy mechanical equipment. Competitive compensation, generous time off, and health benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of hands‑on FEA experience with heavy equipment.
• Strong background in structural mechanics and load‑bearing systems.
• Ability to produce well‐documented calculations and FEA reports.
• Experience leading design efforts through prototype, testing, and field implementation.
• U.S. citizen or green card holder; willing to travel up to 10%.

Responsibilities

• Perform FEA simulations using ANSYS or similar tools.
• Lead mechanical design from concept through implementation.
• Analyze and validate mechanical systems and structures.
• Lead mechanical design from concept to prototype, testing, and field deployment.
• Generate test plans, engineering reports, and work packs for fabrication and field execution.
• Mentor junior engineers and participate in design reviews and process improvements.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, fabricators, and field technicians.

Skills

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Structural mechanics

Mechanical engineering

Engineering documentation

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Education

BSME or MSME

MSME

Tools

ANSYS

SolidWorks

Inventor

Creo

Job description

📍 Remote - USA Only (48 Contiguous States) 🧳 Travel: 10% annually

We’re looking for a Senior Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Analyst to support advanced engineering simulations and mechanical design work for complex machinery, heavy equipment, and high‑capacity structures. Your work directly impacts product performance, safety, and innovation across our customers' engineering programs.

You’ll analyze and improve the structural mechanics of mechanical systems, lead design efforts, and contribute to cutting‑edge engineering initiatives across multiple industries.

This is a remote role supporting customers nationwide, with occasional travel to fabrication shops, test sites, or field locations.

🔧 What You’ll Do

• Perform FEA simulations (linear, nonlinear, contact, buckling, fatigue, large‑deflection) using ANSYS or similar tools
• Analyze and validate crane structures, lifting beams, rigging components, and heavy mechanical systems
• Develop 3D models, detailed drawings, and engineering documentation in SolidWorks, Inventor, or Creo
• Conduct hand calculations to verify FEA results and support design decisions
• Lead mechanical design from concept through prototype, testing, and field implementation
• Support customers with rapid engineering assessments and problem‑solving
• Generate engineering reports, test plans, and work packs for fabrication and field execution
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, fabricators, and field technicians
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to design reviews and process improvements

🎯 Must‑Have Qualifications

• BSME 10+ years or MSME with 5+ years of hands‑on, demonstrated FEA experience with the analysis of major components of heavy equipment that could be mobile or stationary equipment
• 10+ years of mechanical engineering experience in cranes, lifting systems, or heavy mechanical equipment
• Advanced FEA experience (ANSYS strongly preferred)
• Strong background in structural mechanics, weldments, heavy steel structures, and load‑bearing systems
• Proficiency in SolidWorks, Inventor, or Pro/E/Creo
• Demonstrated ability to produce well‑documented calculations, FEA reports, and design packages
• U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder
• Ability to travel up to 10%

🌟 Preferred Experience

• Designing cranes, hoists, lifting beams, gantries, or high‑capacity structures
• Experience with hydraulic or mechanical powertrain systems
• Familiarity with offshore, industrial, or construction lifting environments
• Knowledge of ASME B30, API, DNV, ABS or similar standards
• Hands‑on exposure to fabrication, testing, or field commissioning

🏡 Work Environment

• Fully remote (48 contiguous USA only)
• Occasional travel to customer sites, fabrication shops, or test facilities
• Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams and field personnel

Benefits

• Competitive Compensation: An attractive base salary, commensurate with experience
• Generous Time Off: Paid holidays, PTO, and flexible time off to recharge and maintain work‑life balance
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan to secure your future
• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage
• Disability Protection: Short‑term and long‑term disability plans for peace of mind