Finite Element Analysis Engineer

Location: Los Angeles, Canada | Palo Alto, Canada

Department: Spectacles

Employment Type: Full time

About Snap Inc

Snap Inc is a technology company. We believe the camera presents the greatest opportunity to improve the way people live and communicate. Snap contributes to human progress by empowering people to express themselves, live in the moment, learn about the world, and have fun together.

About the Role

Snap Inc is a camera company that believes AR innovation enhances how people live, connect, and create in the moment. Our Spectacles team is pioneering fifth-generation standalone AR glasses powered by Snap OS, blending see-through displays with Snapchat's creative ecosystem to redefine play, learning, and work. Join us as a Finite Element Analysis Engineer in the Spectacles department, where you'll drive structural integrity for next-gen AR wearables that fuse camera technology with augmented reality, empowering users to express themselves immersively. In this role, you'll collaborate with cross-functional teams including Product Design, Optical Engineering, and Reliability to simulate and optimize hardware for lightweight, durable AR experiences. Perform advanced static/dynamic analyses using ANSYS Mechanical or LS-DYNA, validate models against real-world tests, and recommend innovations that align with Snap's creative culture. Coordinate external testing while developing custom tools to predict system behaviors in camera-AR integrations, ensuring Spectacles withstands everyday adventures. We're seeking a self-motivated engineer passionate about human-centered tech. With our 'Default Together' policy, expect 4+ days in-office for dynamic collaboration that fuels Snap's vibrant, diverse culture. Snap is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive innovation—apply to help shape AR's future at the intersection of cameras, creativity, and connection. Compensation: Zone A (CA, WA, NYC) $142,000-$214,000; Zone B $135,000-$203,000; Zone C $121,000-$182,000 (plus equity).

What You'll Do

• Work closely with cross-functional hardware teams to develop innovative AR glasses for Spectacles
• Perform static and dynamic structural simulations using ANSYS Mechanical (preferred) and/or LS-DYNA
• Coordinate external resources for simulation tasks and physical testing of AR components
• Partner with Product Design, Optical Engineering, and Reliability teams to assess structural impacts on camera and AR systems
• Evaluate, verify/validate, and optimize designs to meet performance requirements for lightweight, see-through AR hardware
• Recommend design changes to enhance durability and reliability in real-world AR experiences
• Participate in brainstorming sessions for new AR technologies and camera innovations
• Develop custom simulation tools and capabilities to push boundaries in Spectacles product roadmap
• Analyze failure modes across materials used in consumer AR devices
• Collaborate on system-level assessments informing Spectacles architecture and Snap OS integration

Minimum Qualifications

• MS in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mechanics, Materials Science, or related field
• 3+ years of experience as an analyst performing product-level mechanical and structural simulations
• Proficiency in static and dynamic structural simulations using ANSYS Mechanical or LS-DYNA
• Knowledge of solid modeling practices, including fatigue analysis and model validation techniques
• Experience with CAD software such as NX, ProE, or Solidworks
• Familiarity with testing methods like Digital Image Correlation, Universal Testing Machines, and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis
• Ability to travel up to 20%

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mechanics, Materials Science, or related field
• 3+ years of industry experience in consumer electronics performing mechanical and structural simulations
• Experience building and calibrating nonlinear material models
• Hands-on experience with optical, magnetic, or multiphysics simulations

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Expertise in ANSYS Mechanical and LS-DYNA for structural simulations
• Solid modeling and CAD proficiency (NX, ProE, Solidworks)
• Knowledge of solid mechanics, strength of materials, and fatigue analysis
• Failure modeling for diverse material classes in consumer electronics
• Testing experience with Digital Image Correlation and Universal Testing Machines
• Dynamic Mechanical Analysis techniques
• Outstanding written and verbal communication for documentation and stakeholder updates
• Interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration in fast-paced AR teams
• Self-motivation to identify and resolve technical issues
• Ability to recommend design optimizations for AR hardware
• Experience coordinating external simulation and testing resources
• Understanding of multiphysics simulations for optical and camera systems
• Reliability engineering for product roadmap decisions
• Brainstorming and innovation in AR technology development

Our Benefits

• Paid parental leave
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Emotional and mental health support programs
• Equity in the form of RSUs
• Compensation packages sharing in Snap’s long-term success
• Flexible benefits built around your needs
• Support for disabilities and special accommodations
• Dynamic collaboration in a creative, innovative culture

Compensation

$142,000-$214,000 annually

This position is eligible for equity in the form of RSUs.

"Default Together" Policy: At Snap Inc, we practice a "default together" approach and expect team members to work in an office 4+ days per week.

Snap is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.