Finite Element Analyst

Paligen Technologies; Clearwater (FL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

McCormick Stevenson, a subsidiary of Paligen Technologies, is seeking a Finite Element Analyst to evaluate and optimize performance using computational tools. This role is vital to enhance designs and predict system behaviors under various conditions, focusing on aerospace and defense technologies.

The ideal candidate will possess a BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering and at least 10 years of experience. Key responsibilities include performing FEA, developing scripts for FEA workflows, and collaborating with design teams.

Qualifications

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in engineering.
• A minimum of 5 years performing mechanical/aerospace structural analysis.
• Ability to obtain a Secret DoD clearance.

Responsibilities

• Utilize FEA for technical substantiation of mechanical designs.
• Prepare and mesh geometry for finite element analysis.
• Develop and validate computational models predicting system behavior.

Skills

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Microsoft Office Suite

Computer-Aided Engineering tools

3D CAD tools

Engineering documentation interpretation

Structural, Dynamic, and Thermal Analyses

Education

BS degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

ANSYS Classic

ANSYS Workbench

ANSYS Mechanical

ANSYS Fluent

Siemens Simcenter

Nastran/Patran

Salesforce

Job description

Position Title: Finite Element Analyst

Job Family: Engineering

Company: McCormick Stevenson

Location: Onsite - Clearwater, FL

McCormick Stevenson, subsidiary of Paligen Technologies, is seeking an experienced Engineering Analyst specializing in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) who will be responsible for using advanced computational tools to evaluate and optimize the structural, thermal, and dynamic performance of complex systems including aircraft, spacecraft, and military vehicles. This analyst will address challenges such as extreme operating conditions, high-performance materials, and strict regulatory standards. By simulating real-world scenarios, they will predict system behavior under various loads, enhance designs for manufacturability, and reduce development costs and timelines. Their expertise will directly contribute to the resilience, safety, and advancement of aerospace and defense technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Utilize Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and relevant/related hand calculations to provide technical substantiation for mechanical design decisions.
• Perform detailed finite element analysis (FEA) for structural, thermal, fluid, and/or dynamic systems. Prepare and mesh geometry for efficient accurate analysis.
• Setup analysis models to represent environmental loads, boundary conditions, and realistic contacts.
• Post-process and review analysis results to ensure accuracy and interpret results.
• Develop and validate computational models to predict system behavior under various operating conditions.
• Conduct material selection and characterization studies as part of the analysis.
• Collaborate with internal design team and customers to refine designs and resolve engineering challenges.
• Thoroughly document all work in compliance with customer and industry requirements.
• Prepare and deliver comprehensive reports/presentations on findings.
• Develop scripts or tools to automate repetitive tasks in FEA workflows.
• Actively participate in technical and program reviews, contributing valuable insights, expertise, and communication with the customer.
• Conceive, plan, and develop new technical methods or approaches as warranted by advancements in state-of-the-art technology.
• Develop Statements of Work, estimates, and project execution plans to complete analysis scope.

Required Skills And Qualifications

• BS degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering from an accredited engineering college.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A minimum 5 years of experience performing mechanical or aerospace structural analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines, work efficiently under time constraints, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Professional written and verbal communication skills.
• Mastery of Microsoft Office PowerPoint, Word, Excel.
• Expertise in interpretation of engineering documentation.
• Mastery of Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) tools such as ANSYS Classic, ANSYS Workbench, ANSYS Mechanical, ANSYS LS-Dyna, ANSYS Fluent, Siemens Simcenter, Nastran/Patran, or ABAQUS (ANSYS Preferred).
• Proficiency with 3D CAD tools (SoldWorks, PTC Creo, or ANSYS SpaceClaim preferred).
• Expertise in performing Structural, Dynamic, and Thermal Analyses.
• Expertise in performing first-order engineering calculations.
• Knowledge of Material Properties: material strength, fatigue, and durability properties.
• Must have the ability to obtain a Secret DoD clearance.

Preferred

• Master’s degree or PhD in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• DoD Secret Clearance.
• Defense or Aerospace industry experience including military design and testing standards such as MIL-STD-810.
• Experience performing the following types of analyses:
  • Analysis of composite materials and composite structures.
  • Fracture or Impact Dynamics.

Other Requirements

• Travel: ~10%.
• Work Environment: Office.
• Background Investigation / Drug Screen / US person: Required.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.