Cadence
Computational Structural Dynamicist
16279 Laguna Canyon Rd, Irvine, CA 92618-3612
Full-time · $118k–$218k (as posted)
First seen by offpeak October 4, 2026
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Job Title: Computational Structural Dynamicist
Role Overview
We are seeking an expert Computational Structural Dynamicist to develop solver capabilities for the automotive and aerospace industries. You will design, implement, and enhance advanced structural dynamics algorithms in MSC Nastran, Cadence Design System’s flagship finite element program. A critical part of this role involves diving deep into our existing codebase to diagnose, isolate, and resolve complex numerical and algorithmic bugs
Key Responsibilities
- Algorithm Development: Implement and optimize advanced structural dynamics capabilities into commercial FEA software.
- Architecture & Design: Work closely with Product Management to translate automotive and aerospace requirements into robust software designs.
- Mathematical Modeling: Apply high-level linear algebra techniques to solve complex engineering mechanics problems.
- High-Performance Computing: Develop and optimize parallel code to ensure high-performance, bug-free execution on modern hardware.
- Code Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Diagnose, debug, and resolve complex numerical and algorithmic issues within a large, production-grade legacy and modern Fortran codebase.
Required Qualifications
- Education: PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mechanics or Civil Engineering.
- FEA Expertise: Proven experience implementing, enhancing, and debugging algorithms inside a commercial-grade parallel finite element code.
- Codebase Familiarity: High proficiency in C++, FORTRAN and Python, with comfort navigating, refactoring, and fixing bugs in the codebase.
- Advanced Dynamics: Mastery of advanced structural dynamics, including transient, modal, frequency-response, and non-linear dynamic analyses.
- Linear Algebra: Strong expertise in applied linear algebra for engineering mechanics (e.g., sparse solvers, eigenvalue problems).
- Parallel Computing: Strong background in debugging and optimizing parallel programming paradigms (e.g., MPI, OpenMP).
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Aerospace Disciplines: Knowledge of aeroelasticity (flutter, gust response) and rotor dynamics (jet engines, turbomachinery).
- Automotive Disciplines: Knowledge of vibro-acoustics / NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) and powertrain.
- Experience with modern software engineering practices, including regression testing, profiling tools, version control, and continuous integration.
The annual salary range for California is $117,600 to $218,400. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Sales positions generally offer a competitive On Target Earnings (OTE) incentive compensation structure. Please note that the salary range is a guideline and compensation may vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location. Our benefits programs include: paid vacation and paid holidays, 401(k) plan with employer match, employee stock purchase plan, a variety of medical, dental and vision plan options, and more.