Structural Mechanical Analysis Engineer

Title: Structural Mechanical Analysis Engineer

Location: Idaho Falls, ID (Remote Work)

Employment Type: Full-Time; Temporary (6 mos.)

Position Overview:

TradeWind Services is seeking a Structural Mechanical Analysis Engineer to provide structural and mechanical analysis support for elevated-temperature nuclear component design evaluations in accordance with ASME BPVC Section III, Division 5. This position is remote-eligible, with periodic coordination calls with technical leads expected; no mandatory on-site presence is required. Engagement duration and hours will be determined based on candidate availability and final scope assignment. The ideal candidate will perform code-compliance analysis supporting the structural integrity of elevated-temperature nuclear components, including load-controlled stress evaluations, stress classification and linearization, and finite element model development. They will also support the preparation of code-compliant, independently reviewable calculation packages and contribute to the technical rigor underpinning the design and safety basis of next-generation nuclear components.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support structural/mechanical analysis in accordance with ASME BPVC Section III, Division 5 code requirements.
• Perform load-controlled stress evaluations, stress classification, and stress linearization for elevated-temperature nuclear components.
• Develop Finite Element Analysis (FEA) models, including 3D model development, mesh convergence studies, and boundary condition documentation, using tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, or equivalent.
• Produce code-compliant, independently reviewable calculation packages and supporting reports.
• Perform creep-fatigue damage evaluation, including time-dependent creep and fatigue interaction, usage factors, and hold-time effects, per Subsection HBB / Mandatory Appendix HBB-I.
• Conduct strain limits, ratcheting, and incremental collapse assessments.
• Evaluate elevated-temperature buckling, including thermal and creep buckling.
• Collaborate with technical leads and senior engineers to review analysis results and ensure technical accuracy.
• Support evaluation of weld strength reduction factors, dissimilar metal weld assessments, or bolted joint fatigue/relaxation analysis under Division 5, as needed.
• Apply working knowledge of Section III, Division 5 or demonstrate transferable experience from Section III Division 1 or Section VIII with elevated-temperature exposure.
• Reference Section II, Part D material allowables as applicable to analysis tasks.
• Participate in periodic technical coordination calls to align on scope, progress, and findings.
• Other duties as assigned by the technical lead or engineering manager.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering or a directly related field, with a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience; OR
• Master of Science degree in mechanical engineering or a directly related field, with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience. The qualifying degree must be from an ABET-accredited program.
• Working knowledge of ASME BPVC Section III, Division 5 (or demonstrated transferable experience in Section III Division 1 or Section VIII with elevated-temperature exposure).
• FEA experience (ANSYS, Abaqus, or equivalent), including 3D model development, mesh convergence, and boundary condition documentation.
• Hands-on experience with creep-fatigue damage evaluation, including time-dependent creep and fatigue interaction, usage factors, and hold-time effects, per Subsection HBB / Mandatory Appendix HBB-I.
• Experience with strain limits, ratcheting, and incremental collapse assessment.
• Experience with elevated-temperature buckling, including thermal and creep buckling.
• Demonstrated ability to produce code-compliant, independently reviewable calculation packages.
• Experience with weld strength reduction factors, dissimilar metal weld assessment, or bolted joint fatigue/relaxation analysis under Division 5.
• Prior DOE national laboratory or nuclear component supplier experience.
• Familiarity with Section II, Part D material allowables.
• Must be a United States Citizen.
• Working knowledge of ASME BPVC Section III, Division 5 nuclear component design requirements.
• FEA experience, including 3D model development, mesh convergence, and boundary condition documentation.
• Ability to apply general code rules to specific analysis problems to produce technically sound, defensible results.
• Ability to combine analytical results to form conclusions supporting code-compliance determinations.
• Ability to listen to and understand technical information and ideas presented through discussion with technical leads and stakeholders.
• Ability to communicate analysis results and technical findings clearly, in writing and verbally.
• Candidate will work remotely with the ability to travel onsite as needed.

Salary and Benefits Information:

Expected Salary Range: $135k - $175k / year (depending on experience)

TradeWind Services offers a selection of exceptional benefits to employees and their families. We can customize your benefits to fit your specific needs. Benefits include:

• Long- and Short-term Disability Insurance