> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2297728-staff-protective-design-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2297728-staff-protective-design-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Staff Protective Design Engineer

- **Company:** Applied Research Associates, Inc.
- **Location:** Alexandria, VA, United States
- **Experience:** Experienced
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** 3d Models, AutoCAD, Mathcad, Software Tools, SAP 2000, Ls-dyna
- **Published:** August 29, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.juju.com/job/00000000gpr60u

## About the Role

+ Bachelor's degree in Civil, Structural, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent with an emphasis in structural dynamics and structural design, plus 5-7 years of related experience. Advanced degree preferred, with 3-5 years of related experience.

 + Knowledge of finite element methods and engineering software including MathCad, SAP2000, LS-DYNA, and AutoCAD or similar.

 + Experience in analysis/design including dynamic, non-linear structural analysis and 3-D modeling.

 + Must be independent, self-motivated, and have excellent technical, communication, and presentation skills.

 + This position requires a security clearance. Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Staff protective design engineer preferences:

 + GPA of at least 3.00 out of 4.00

 + Interest in project management and business development is beneficial.

## Description

ARA is seeking an experienced protective design engineer to join our Southern Division. This is an on-site position working in our office in Vicksburg, MS or Alexandria, VA.

What you will do as a staff protective design engineer:

 + Perform simple to complex structural analysis and design, from basic static design to dynamic, non-linear analysis using finite element and single and multiple degree of freedom methods.

 + Work with engineers to perform both static and dynamic structural analysis for extreme events

 + Prepare calculation packages, technical reports of analysis and recommendations

 + Limited travel may be involved to collect site-specific information

 + Participate in testing depending on project requirements, and interact with existing clients as well as develop business with new clients and markets.


## Related Videos

- [Security Pitfalls for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/726-security-pitfalls-for-software-engineers)
- [WebAssembly Revolution: Elevating JavaScript's Reach and Performance](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1149-webassembly-revolution-elevating-javascript-s-reach-and-performance)
- [One Does Not Simply Make Architecture Decisions Alone](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2128-one-does-not-simply-make-architecture-decisions-alone)
- [Design as an algorithm, not as a feature](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/471-design-as-an-algorithm-not-as-a-feature)

## Related Articles

- [The 12 Best Jobs for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/401-the-12-best-jobs-for-software-engineers)
- [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk)
- [Software Engineer Career: Things You Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/143-software-engineer-career-things-you-should-know)
- [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs)
- [What Jobs Can You Get with a Software Engineering Degree?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/398-what-jobs-can-you-get-with-a-software-engineering-degree)
- [From developer to manager – what does it take to become an engineering manager?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/42-from-developer-to-manager-what-does-it-take-to-become-an-engineering-manager)