Senior FEA Analyst for Heavy Equipment & Crane Structures

Zen Sherpa LLC

Little Canada (MN)

On-site

USD 120,000 - 180,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Generous PTO

401(k) plan

Health insurance

Disability coverage

Job summary

Zen Sherpa LLC seeks an experienced FEA Analyst to advance engineering simulations and mechanical design for heavy equipment and high-capacity structures. You will analyze structural mechanics, lead design efforts, and support multiple engineering programs across industries.

The role requires advanced FEA experience (ANSYS preferred), proficiency in SolidWorks or Creo, and travel up to ~10%. On-site work in Minnesota with opportunities to mentor teammates and influence design reviews.

Qualifications

BSME with 10+ years or MSME with 5+ years of hands-on FEA experience.
10+ years of mechanical engineering experience in cranes, lifting systems, or heavy mechanical equipment.

Responsibilities

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.