Senior FEA Engineer: Heavy Machinery & Crane Systems

Zen Sherpa Llc; Little Canada (MN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Compensation

Generous Time Off

401(k) Retirement Savings

Health and Wellness Insurance

Disability Protection

Job summary

Zen Sherpa Llc in Minnesota is seeking a senior Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Analyst to advance engineering simulations and mechanical design for heavy equipment and high-capacity structures. You will lead FEA studies, validate crane components, and contribute to safety and performance across customer programs.

This on-site role requires extensive experience with ANSYS or similar tools, proficiency in SolidWorks/In Inventor/Creo, and the ability to travel up to 10%.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of hands-on FEA experience with heavy equipment components
• 10+ years of mechanical engineering experience in cranes, lifting systems, or heavy 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
• U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder
• Ability to travel up to ~10%

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
• 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

Skills

FEA simulations

Structural mechanics

Leadership / mentoring

Hand calculations

Education

BSME

MSME

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Creo/ProE

Job description

Zen Sherpa Llc in Minnesota is seeking a senior Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Analyst to advance engineering simulations and mechanical design for heavy equipment and high-capacity structures. You will lead FEA studies, validate crane components, and contribute to safety and performance across customer programs.

This on-site role requires extensive experience with ANSYS or similar tools, proficiency in SolidWorks/In Inventor/Creo, and the ability to travel up to 10%.