Cardinal Engineering LLC is seeking a Senior / Principal Structural Engineer to lead advanced structural analysis and computational mechanics supporting Department of Defense and maritime programs. This role serves as a senior technical authority for structural work across Navy surface ship structures, submarine systems, and underwater vehicles.
Role Focus
The position will execute and oversee high-fidelity finite element analysis, advance automation for repeatable workflows, and contribute to structural substantiation and survivability optimization in accordance with naval standards. The engineer will also communicate analytical results and defend modeling approaches during major design reviews.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and perform high-fidelity Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for complex static, dynamic, transient, and non-linear loading conditions using FEMAP/NASTRAN.
- Improve team efficiency by designing and implementing custom automation tools, including macros and API scripts utilizing the FEMAP API to streamline modeling, analysis, and post-processing workflows.
- Oversee preparation and technical review of analysis packages, substantiation reports, and structural drawing sets for critical fleet assets.
- Direct structural trade studies to optimize weight, cost, and manufacturability while meeting naval survivability and strength requirements.
- Serve as a primary technical point of contact for Navy technical authorities, NAVSEA program offices, and prime contractors, including presenting findings and defending analytical methods during major design reviews.
- Apply and enforce internal structural analysis standards, verification methodologies, and best practices, while mentoring mid-level and junior staff.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil, Naval Architecture, or Ocean Engineering.
- 8+ years of progressive experience in advanced structural analysis and computational mechanics, with emphasis on defense or maritime applications.
- Experience acting as a technical lead or subject matter expert on complex FEA efforts using FEMAP and NASTRAN.
- Strong briefing and communication skills, including experience presenting technical risk, analytical methodology, and design trade-offs to senior leadership and government customers.
- Must be a US Citizen and possess an active Secret security clearance, or have the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance.
Technologies
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
- FEMAP
- NASTRAN
- FEMAP API
- Python
- C++
- VBA
Preferred Qualifications
- MS or PhD specializing in Solid Mechanics, Computational Mechanics, or Structural Dynamics.
- Advanced proficiency developing FEMAP API automation tools using Python, C++, or VBA.
- In-depth knowledge of Navy ship design practices, including hull structures, equipment foundations, and shock/vibration qualification.
- Experience with naval structural standards and criteria (including DDS-100 series, MIL-STD-167, and MIL-DTL-901).
- Expertise in Dynamic Design Analysis Method (DDAM) and Underwater Explosion (UNDEX) response modeling is highly desirable.
Work Location and Travel
This role is based out of Cardinal Engineering LLC’s offices in Washington, D.C., Pawcatuck, CT, or Linwood, PA in a hybrid environment, with in-office presence driven by project requirements and secure facility needs.
Occasional travel (less than 20%) may be required to shipyards, partner facilities, and government test sites.
Compensation and Benefits
Salary: USD 130,000 - 185,000 per year (commensurate with experience and technical expertise).
- Generous 401(k) company contribution with immediate vesting
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- FSA and Dependent Care Account
- Short-term and long-term disability protection
- Company-paid life and AD&D insurance plans
How to Apply
Please submit your cover letter and resume.
Pay: $130,000.00 - $185,000.00 per year
Security clearance: Secret (Preferred)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Washington, DC 20003
