Structural Analyst III

We are seeking an experienced Tooling Stress Analysis Engineer to support the design, analysis, and validation of tooling and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) used in aerospace manufacturing and assembly operations. This role is responsible for performing classical stress analysis and finite element analysis (FEA) to ensure tooling designs meet structural, stability, and safety requirements while supporting production, engineering, and vendor development teams.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience analyzing aerospace or automotive tooling, strong proficiency with ANSYS or NX Simulation/Nastran, and a solid understanding of structural mechanics, weldments, bolted joints, and applicable engineering codes.

Location: Seattle, WA
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire (REMOTE)
Pay Rate: $80 - $87 per hour (DOE)
Schedule: Full-Time | Monday-Friday (Overtime as needed)

Key Responsibilities

• Perform structural strength assessments using classical hand calculations and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for tooling and Ground Support Equipment (GSE).
• Develop, validate, and interpret finite element models to evaluate structural integrity, stability, and performance.
• Prepare and review stress analysis reports to support engineering drawing releases and design documentation.
• Mentor tooling designers on best practices related to structural analysis, stability, fracture mechanics, and design optimization.
• Provide technical guidance during concept development, evaluating cost, risk, manufacturability, and performance trade-offs.
• Support multidisciplinary engineering teams through design reviews, trade studies, and technical problem-solving.
• Lead conceptual and detailed structural analysis for tooling used in the manufacture and assembly of structural components, mechanical systems, actuated systems, hydraulic systems, and fluid systems.
• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for vendor-developed tooling projects, reviewing designs and ensuring compliance with engineering requirements.
• Perform engineering calculations for bolted and welded joints to verify structural integrity and compliance with applicable standards.
• Ensure designs meet applicable structural codes and industry standards.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil, or Structural Engineering (or related engineering discipline).
• Minimum 8 years of experience performing stress analysis on tooling or Ground Support Equipment (GSE) in the aerospace, automotive, or similar manufacturing industry.
• Experience creating, validating, and interpreting finite element models using ANSYS or Siemens NX Simulation/Nastran.
• Strong experience performing FEA using 1D, 2D, and 3D elements, including models containing weldments and machined components.
• Proficiency developing free-body diagrams and performing classical engineering calculations for internal loads, reaction forces, and structural simplification.
• Extensive experience analyzing steel and aluminum tooling, machining fixtures, and welded structures using hand calculations.
• Experience performing bolted joint calculations, including:
  • Bolt preload
  • Joint stiffness
  • Shear/tension interaction
  • Insert pull-out analysis
• Experience performing welded joint calculations, including:
  • Weld sizing
  • Effective throat calculations
  • Direct and combined stress analysis
  • Failure mode evaluation
• Working knowledge of structural design codes and standards such as:
  • AISC 360
  • ASME B30
  • ASME B31
  • ASME BTH-1
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across engineering disciplines while building strong working relationships.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Experience using Creo and/or Siemens NX CAD.
• Strong customer-focused mindset with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven history of successfully delivering engineering projects from concept through implementation.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical findings to both engineering and non-technical stakeholders.
• Self-motivated with excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

INDH