Senior Naval Structural Analyst & FEA Leader (Hybrid)

Cardinal Engineering LLC; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

Cardinal Engineering LLC is seeking a senior technical lead to advance structural analysis and computational mechanics for DoD and maritime programs. You will direct FEA efforts, drive automation, and ensure quality across analysis packages and drawings while engaging Navy authorities and prime contractors.

You will mentor staff, uphold internal standards, and operate in a hybrid role with offices in Washington, DC, Pawcatuck, CT, or Linwood, PA. Security clearance is required.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in advanced structural analysis and computational mechanics, with defense/maritime focus
• Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain DoD Secret clearance
• Experience leading FEA projects using FEMAP and NASTRAN
• Strong briefing and communication skills to senior leadership and government customers

Responsibilities

• Lead high-fidelity FEA for static, dynamic, transient, and non-linear loading with FEMAP/NASTRAN
• Architect and implement automation tools, macros, and scripts to streamline modeling and post-processing
• Oversee generation and technical review of analysis packages and structural drawing sets
• Interface with Navy authorities, NAVSEA program offices, and prime contractors; present findings at design reviews
• Mentor mid-level and junior staff and enforce analysis standards

Skills

Technical leadership

Communication

Bringing senior leadership risk

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil, Naval Architecture, or Ocean Engineering

Tools

FEMAP

NASTRAN

Python

C++

VBA

Job description

Cardinal Engineering LLC is seeking a senior technical lead to advance structural analysis and computational mechanics for DoD and maritime programs. You will direct FEA efforts, drive automation, and ensure quality across analysis packages and drawings while engaging Navy authorities and prime contractors.

You will mentor staff, uphold internal standards, and operate in a hybrid role with offices in Washington, DC, Pawcatuck, CT, or Linwood, PA. Security clearance is required.