Lead FEA Meshing Engineer

Role: Lead FEA Engineer

Location: Houston, TX (Hybrid); Open to other locations in EST or CST zone for Remote work

Duration: Long Term

Job Summary:

NOTE: Client is looking for candidates with active/expired clearance for this role. Please note we are not looking for FEA Simulation Engineer in this position. Please let me know if you have any question.

Job Title: FEA Meshing Engineer (4 6 Years Experience)

Department: Engineering / CAE / Simulation

Reports To: Lead FEA Engineer / Simulation Manager

Job Summary

We are seeking a FEA Meshing Engineer with 4 6 years of hands-on experience in pre-processing, meshing, and setup of finite element models for complex structural systems. The candidate will work on marine and oAshore vessel structures, performing model preparation, mesh generation, and simulation setup using commercial CAE tools. The role requires strong fundamentals in mechanics, machine design, and an ability to translate real-world engineering problems into accurate simulation models.

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor s degree (B.S.) in Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or related disciplines.
• Exposure to the Finite Element Method (through coursework, research, or practical experience) preferred but not mandatory.
• Proficiency in English (oral and written) with the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences.

Experience

• 4 6 years of experience in FEA pre-processing and meshing for structural components.
• Experience with complex geometries, geometric cleanup, mid-surfacing, contact definition, and load/boundary condition setup.
• Familiarity with metal, sheet metal, plastic, and rubber materials and corresponding FEA material models.
• Experience in structural, fatigue, vibration, and buckling analyses is a plus.
• Prior experience in marine or offshore vessel structures (support vessels, tugs, pushers, barges) preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Model Preparation & Meshing

• Handle complex CAD data from SolidWorks, Creo, Inventor, CATIA, or NX including cleanup, defeaturing, and assembly management.
• Generate high-quality finite element meshes (1D, 2D, and 3D) for structural and thermal analyses.
• Perform mid-surface extraction and shell/solid meshing for diverse component types.
• Ensure mesh quality compliance (aspect ratio, skewness, connectivity) and solver compatibility.

Model Setup & Pre-Processing

• Define materials, thicknesses, and connections (bolts, welds, adhesives).
• Apply loads, constraints, and boundary conditions to replicate physical behavior.
• Debug and validate models to ensure convergence and solver readiness.

Simulation Support & Collaboration

• Work with analysis engineers to set up and execute FEA simulations using commercial solvers (Abaqus, ANSYS, Nastran, etc.).
• Post-process simulation results and support engineers in interpreting FEA outputs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Design, Testing, Manufacturing) to integrate simulation insights into product development.
• Document meshing processes, model standards, and best practices.

Process Improvement & Automation

• Develop and use Python/TCL scripts to automate repetitive meshing and model setup tasks.
• Support continuous improvement in CAE workflows, templates, and automation.
• Participate in methodology development for diverse structural domains (marine, mechanical, industrial).

Core Competencies

• Strong fundamentals in Machine Design, Engineering Mechanics, and Strength of Materials.
• Deep understanding of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) principles and continuum mechanics.
• Proficiency in meshing tools: Altair HyperMesh, ANSA, ANSYS Meshing, or Patran or Nastran, LS-PrePost
• Exposure with FEA types: Static, Modal, Dynamic (Transient, Harmonic, Random), Buckling, and Hydro-dynamic analyses.
• Familiarity with global design standards related to structural and oAshore applications.
• Good understanding of structural reliability concepts is a plus.

Soft Skills

• Excellent communication and documentation skills (oral and written).
• Team-oriented with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Strong visualization and interpretation skills for drawings and technical data.
• Quick learner with adaptability to new tools, methods, and project needs.
• Commitment to first-time quality and on-time delivery of projects.