Job Title : FEA Meshing Engineer (4–6 Years Experience)
Location : Houston, TX
Term : Contract / Fulltime (both will work)
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 oshore vessel structures, performing model preparation, mesh generation, and simulation setup using commericial 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 oshore 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 & CollaborationWork 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 & AutomationDevelop 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-PrePostExposure with FEA types : Static, Modal, Dynamic (Transient, Harmonic, Random), Buckling, and Hydro-dynamic analyses.Familiarity with global design standards related to structural and oshore 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.