Senior FEA Engineer
About The Position
Thea Energy is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Finite Element Analyst to perform advanced analysis supporting the design, optimization, and verification of the thermal, structural, and magnetic requirements of its stellarator systems. The role sets FEA methodology and architecture across primary stellarator systems, leads complex and first-of-its-kind engineering problem-solving, mentors and provides technical guidance to junior analysts, and serves as an authority on high-risk engineering decisions. The position develops system-level architectural models and highly coupled multiphysics simulations for major stellarator systems and prototyping. It performs thermal, mechanical, vibration, and magnetic-load analyses, including steady-state and transient evaluations of stress, strain, fatigue, and creep across startup, steady-state operation, shutdown, and off-nominal conditions. The role also develops material models, advises on required material-property development, and serves as an internal subject matter expert on complex weld evaluations and cryogenic material behavior. The Senior FEA Engineer collaborates with design teams to optimize structures for performance, weight, and maintainability, and identifies design improvements that can produce higher-performing, lower-cost systems. The company notes that applicants need not meet every listed skillset and welcomes candidates who can explain why they would be a strong fit.
Requirements
- At least 8 years of professional experience performing Finite Element Analysis with commercial software.
- Strong background in mechanical engineering, applied mechanics, materials, and simulation.
- Experience scripting and building tools around commercial FEA tools.
- Demonstrated ability to solve complex engineering problems and identify root causes through meticulous analysis.
- Proven experience developing first-of-its-kind components or systems.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills and ability to work as a team player.
- Comfort working to ambitious timelines with adaptability, exceptional work ethic, and a continuous-improvement mindset.
- Desire to learn, innovate, and critically evaluate ideas, including one's own.
Responsibilities
- Set strategic FEA methodology and architecture across primary stellarator systems.
- Lead first-of-its-kind problem-solving initiatives and serve as the primary authority on high-risk engineering decisions.
- Develop and oversee system-level architectural models and highly coupled multiphysics simulations for stellarator systems and prototyping activities.
- Perform multi-domain simulations involving thermal, mechanical, vibration, and magnetic loads.
- Provide technical guidance and peer review for junior analysts to support model accuracy and best practices.
- Conduct steady-state and transient analyses using accurate material models to evaluate stress, strain, fatigue, and creep during startup, steady-state operation, shutdown, and off-nominal conditions.
- Optimize structural designs for performance under loading conditions, reduced weight, and improved maintainability.
- Participate in the design process and identify improvements that support higher-performing, lower-cost, and more maintainable systems.
- Develop material models and identify required material-property development.
- Serve as the internal subject matter expert on complex weld evaluations and cryogenic material behavior.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Employee equity stock options.
- 20 days of paid time off.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
