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Job Title: Mechanical Engineer - Structural Analysis
Location: Alameda, CA (100% onsite)
Zip Code: 94501
Pay Rate: $50-$65/HR (DOE)
#mechanicalengineer #structural #analysis
Belcan is seeking a hands-on structural integrity engineer to support first-of-a-kind advanced reactor designs. This role focuses on performing thermo-mechanical analysis and FEA of reactor structures to demonstrate compliance with ASME Section III. You will work across multidisciplinary teams to simplify complex systems, ensure robust design margins, and produce high-quality, defensible design documentation suitable for internal and regulatory reviews.
Key Responsibilities:
* Conduct structural integrity evaluations of KP-FHR reactor components (vessels, core supports, piping, graphite and metallic structures).
* Perform high-temperature thermo-mechanical analyses (elastic-plastic, creep, creep-fatigue, ratcheting, thermal transients) using ANSYS, ABAQUS, or similar FEA tools.
* Evaluate load combinations (pressure, temperature, seismic, transients, test conditions) and define design-basis load cases.
* Apply first-principles reasoning and simplified models to scope new analyses and independently check complex FEA results.
* Support design-by-analysis (DBA) per ASME Section III, including fatigue, creep-fatigue, buckling, and other high-temperature acceptance checks.
* Assess flawed or damaged components using fracture mechanics and fitness-for-service approaches.
* Collaborate with materials and licensing teams to incorporate high-temperature properties, environmental effects, and degradation mechanisms.
* Develop and maintain high-quality calculation packages and design reports.
* Provide mentorship to early-career engineers and refine internal structural integrity methodologies.
Required Qualifications / Skills:
* Bachelor"s in Mechanical Engineering (MS or Ph.D. preferred, focus on solid mechanics or high-temperature design).
* 5+ years of experience in mechanical/structural design and FEA for safety-critical systems (nuclear, aerospace, power, petrochemical).
* Experience with pressure-retaining components and ASME BPVC compliance, preferably Section III, Division 5 / HBB.
* Proficiency in FEA of thermo-mechanical problems (linear/nonlinear, contact, inelasticity, creep/viscoplasticity, buckling).
* Strong knowledge of solid mechanics, fatigue/creep-fatigue, fracture mechanics, stability, high-temperature failure modes.
* Skilled in preparing formal calculation packages and design documentation for internal review or regulatory submittals.
* Familiarity with quality and configuration management (NQA-1, ISO 9001) and scripting/numerical tools (Python, MATLAB) a plus.
* PE license or eligibility a plus; experience interfacing with regulators is a differentiator.
Knowledge / Abilities:
* First-principles mindset, simplifying complex systems into tractable models.
* Strong analytical judgment and attention to detail.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Proven ability to work collaboratively in multi-disciplinary teams and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
If you are interested in this role, please apply via the apply now link provided. Our overriding goal is to provide quality staffing solutions that help people, organizations, and communities succeed. Belcan is a leading provider of qualified personnel to many of the world's most respected enterprises. We offer excellent opportunities for contract, temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct assignments. We are the employer of choice for thousands worldwide. For more information, please visit our website at Belcan.com
Belcan is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
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