Structural Analysis Engineer

Location: Oak Ridge, TN  

Schedule: Full-Time 

FUNCTION 

The Structural Analysis Engineer serves as the responsible licensed engineer for structural qualification and analysis activities across Standard Nuclear’s facilities, products, and engineered systems. 

This role is accountable for performing and sealing structural analyses supporting thermomechanical, dynamic, seismic, and impact evaluations in nuclear and aerospace applications. The engineer will develop and defend analysis methodologies, ensure code compliance, and provide technical sign-off for critical design decisions. 

The role requires strong proficiency in ANSYS Mechanical (or equivalent FEA platforms), deep understanding of solid mechanics, and the ability to translate complex simulation results into defensible engineering conclusions. 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

Structural & Thermomechanical Analysis 

• Develop and execute finite element models using ANSYS Mechanical or equivalent tools. 

• Perform static, dynamic, nonlinear, thermal, and modal analyses as required. 

• Conduct coupled thermomechanical evaluations for high-temperature and heat-generating systems. 

• Evaluate structural performance under operational and extreme loading conditions. 

• Perform local stress analysis where beam models are insufficient. 

Seismic & Dynamic Qualification 

• Perform seismic qualification analyses, including response spectrum and time-history evaluations. 

• Conduct dynamic and impact modeling for transport-critical systems. 

• Evaluate vibration, shock, and transient loading conditions. 

• Ensure structural systems meet applicable code and regulatory requirements. 

Responsible Engineering & Sign-Off 

• Serve as the licensed Professional Engineer responsible for sealing analysis packages, as required. 

• Develop defensible assumptions, boundary conditions, and load cases. 

• Ensure analyses are performed in accordance with applicable codes and standards (e.g., ASME Section III where applicable). 

• Document methodologies, results, and engineering conclusions clearly and thoroughly. 

• Support internal and external technical reviews. 

Cross-Functional Engineering Support 

• Collaborate with mechanical, systems, manufacturing, and facilities engineers to define modeling inputs and constraints. 

• Support design reviews, facility modifications, and equipment installations with analysis-driven insights. 

• Participate in engineering investigations and failure analyses. 

• Mentor junior engineers or analysts, as needed. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, or related discipline. 

• Active Professional Engineer (PE) license. 

• 5+ years of structural analysis experience in industrial, nuclear, aerospace, or heavy mechanical systems. 

• Demonstrated experience performing nonlinear FEA using ANSYS Mechanical or equivalent. 

• Experience with modal, dynamic, and seismic analysis methods. 

• Strong understanding of solid mechanics, material behavior, and structural dynamics. 

• Ability to independently develop, defend, and seal engineering analyses. 

• Experience preparing formal engineering calculation packages and technical reports. 

BENEFITS 

• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance 

• Health Savings Account 

• Disability and Life Insurance 

• 401(k) Plan 

• Paid Time Off and Holidays 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions. 

• Work is primarily performed in an office and engineering environment, with periodic visits to facilities or construction areas. 

• May require PPE in certain workspaces. 

Standard Nuclear embraces equal opportunity and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status. 

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.