Senior CAE Durability Engineer

Senior CAE Durability Engineer Pay Rate: $75-$80/hr | Location: Tustin, CA (Onsite) | Duration: 6-Month Contract | Schedule: Standard Business Hours Our client is seeking an experienced Senior CAE Durability Engineer to join their team on a contract basis. In this role, you will lead finite element analysis (FEA) and durability simulations with a strong focus on battery system dynamics, including modal analysis, random vibration, and shock. You will work cross-functionally with design engineers and suppliers to drive design optimization and support physical validation testing. Job Responsibilities In this role, you will manage and support a variety of projects within the CAE/Structural Analysis department. Key responsibilities include: Essential Job Duties and Functions Lead durability analysis of battery systems using finite element tools including Altair OptiStruct, ANSA, and Hyperview/META Develop random vibration profiles for pack-in-fixture (PIF) testing Develop and tune PIF fixtures to match vehicle response and damage characteristics Conduct battery system dynamics analyses, including modal, random vibration, and shock simulations Interpret and communicate CAE results to design engineers and recommend feasible design changes for optimization Collaborate with design engineers and suppliers to gather material properties, connection data, and relevant CAE modeling inputs Participate in meshing and connecting parts in alignment with team requirements Contribute to the development of analysis procedures for durability load cases and benchmarking activities Knowledge and Skills Proficiency in Altair OptiStruct (required), ANSA, Abaqus, and Hyperview/META or comparable simulation software Strong working knowledge of dynamic analysis of automotive structures Solid understanding of solid mechanics, materials science, structural analysis, and dynamics Familiarity with material properties relevant to automotive structures and battery systems, including metals, polymers, adhesives, conductors, and electronics Experience preparing formal technical reports summarizing analysis results and recommendations Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills Education and Experience BS in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 7+ years of relevant experience, OR MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 2+ years of relevant experience, OR PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field ...