FEA Engineer Responsibilities

Finite element analysis engineering is an important application of engineering analysis, where the analysis is conducted on an object divided into many smaller elements of rectangular or triangular shape, interconnected by the network of assembled nodes. CAD software is implemented for this type of analysis.

Finite element analysis (FEA) engineers are involved in supporting all aspects of structural designing, which involve the use of linear elastic finite element models and composite laminate structures. They ensure that the structure designs and models are developed accordingly and tested under specified test condition. It is their responsibility to make sure that the developed model meets all essential standards and regulations.

Key Responsibilities of an FEA Engineer

FEA engineer responsibilities comprise structural designing, development, and testing of finite element models designed for engineering purposes. FEA engineer verifies the structured models and validates its representation of structural behavior. He also has to determine the internal stress and extract interface load of the models, especially near the structural joints. Along with this, they also have to monitor other engineering activities and provide technical solution based on analysis results for developing an optimal design.

The key responsibilities of an FEA engineer comprise:

• Participating finite element modeling for analyzing the problems related to thermal and thermo-fluids environment; comparing the results with analysis in both high and low temperature ranges
• Creating finite element models of various parts based on the analysis result, assembling the same with respect to linear and non-linear structural domain
• Running finite element modeling in various environment for checking its feasibility in structural, thermal, and vibration domain, conducting finite element analysis in electrical, electro-magnetic and multi-physics environment, and performing analytical studies for analyzing the mechanism of kinematics, dynamics, and force analysis
• Preparing strategic planning for handling additional CAE modeling processes and participating in FEA & CFD developmental processes and other engineering programs for creating new product designs or implementing the modification of existing designs as per new requirements
• Accelerating product development processes for meeting customer requirements
• Coordinating with the staff involves in test and analysis of finite element modeling, providing actual solution to FEA model, and interpreting the analysis results accordingly for providing the best possible solution to the same
• Interpreting analysis results with respect to results obtained by lab testing procedures, converting these results into practical design templates based on given geometry model, and providing structural support to designing and certification groups
• Writing test plans for finite element modeling, data collection process, and model calibration and correlation studies, providing various mechanical and electrical system component for analysis purpose by using various analytical methods and engineering tools (e.g. MathCAD, MATLAB, Excel, etc.)
• Writing reports for summarizing the analysis results and reviewing all project-related analysis results for ensuring the accuracy of project reports

Required Qualifications and Skills

The basic qualification required to be eligible for obtaining a job in finite element analysis engineering is a graduate / postgraduate degree in mechanical engineering, mathematical engineering, or other relevant degree in the field of mathematics / engineering. Apart from this, one also needs to have some relevant experience in finite element analysis for obtaining a better position in this field. Candidates with experience in product development process and APQP elements are preferred over fresh graduates.

Along with required educational qualification and professional expertise, one should also possess certain skills that are essential in the field of FEA engineering. The skills required for being a competent FEA engineer comprise:

• Experience in using a variety of engineering tools like FEA, MATLAB, MathCAD, Excel, etc.
• Exceptional knowledge in product development process and APQP elements
• Knowledge of using various modeling skills
• Knowledge of Pro-E
• Knowledge of advanced FEA skills like transient, fatigue, and non-linear analysis
• Exceptional communication skills
• Knowledge in technical writing for writing test plans and reports
• Organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work solitary or in a team

Salary Compensation

The average salary range in the field of FEA engineering falls in between $55,000 to $95,000 annually. The average salary differs as per the job location, industrial requirement, and relevant experience in this field.

The job profile of FEA engineers is quite work specific and it involves specific analysis techniques for successfully carrying out the responsibilities. If you wish to start a career as an FEA engineer, it would be beneficial to have an in-depth knowledge about the FEA engineer responsibilities before applying for this job.