FEA Analyst / Mechanical Engineer

Zen Sherpa LLC

$95K — $115K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • BSME with 10+ years or MSME with 5+ years of FEA experience in heavy equipment analysis
  • 10+ years of mechanical engineering experience in cranes and heavy mechanical systems
  • Advanced FEA experience using ANSYS preferred
  • Strong background in structural mechanics and load-bearing systems
  • Proficiency in SolidWorks, Inventor, or Creo
  • Ability to produce comprehensive calculations and FEA reports
  • U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder

Responsibilities

  • Perform FEA simulations using ANSYS and similar tools
  • Analyze and validate crane structures and heavy mechanical systems
  • Develop 3D models and engineering documentation in CAD software
  • Conduct hand calculations to support FEA results
  • Lead mechanical design from concept through implementation
  • Support rapid engineering assessments and customer problem-solving
  • Generate engineering reports and work packs for implementation

Benefits

  • Competitive base salary based on experience
  • Generous paid time off, including holidays and flexible options
  • 401(k) plan for retirement savings
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability plans for added security
Full Job Description
On-site Travel: ~10% annually

We're looking for a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Analyst to support advanced engineering simulations and mechanical design work for complex machinery, heavy equipment, and high-capacity structures. Your work directly impacts product performance, safety, and innovation across our customers' engineering programs.

You'll analyze and improve the structural mechanics of mechanical systems, lead design efforts, and contribute to cutting-edge engineering initiatives across multiple industries.

Requirements
What You'll Do
  • 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


Must-Have Qualifications
  • BSME 10+ years or MSME with 5+ years of hands-on, demonstrated FEA experience with the analysis of major components of heavy equipment that could be mobile or stationary equipment
  • 10+ years of mechanical engineering experience in cranes, lifting systems, or heavy mechanical 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
  • Demonstrated ability to produce well-documented calculations, FEA reports, and design packages
  • U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder
  • Ability to travel up to ~10%


Preferred Experience
  • Designing cranes, hoists, lifting beams, gantries, or high-capacity structures
  • Experience with hydraulic or mechanical powertrain systems
  • Familiarity with offshore, industrial, or construction lifting environments
  • Knowledge of ASME B30, API, DNV, ABS or similar standards
  • Hands-on exposure to fabrication, testing, or field commissioning


Work Environment
  • On-site at our Little Canada, MN offices
  • Occasional travel to customer sites, fabrication shops, or test facilities
  • Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams and field personnel

Benefits

We value our team's well-being and offer a robust benefits package to support your professional and personal growth:
  • Competitive Compensation: An attractive base salary, commensurate with experience.
  • Generous Time Off: Paid holidays, PTO, and flexible time off to recharge and maintain work-life balance.
  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan to secure your future.
  • Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.
  • Disability Protection: Short-term and long-term disability plans for peace of mind.

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