Structural Engineer Required – Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

We are looking for an experienced Structural Engineer with expertise in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to evaluate a proposed modification to a light-gauge steel building frame. The objective is to determine whether the existing knee (K) braces between the steel rafters and steel posts can be safely removed while maintaining structural integrity and compliance with applicable design loads. The project consists of a steel-framed residential building located in Florida. Complete structural drawings will be provided. Scope of Work The selected engineer will: * Review the complete structural drawing package. * Develop an accurate 3D finite element model of the representative portal frame. * Model the existing configuration with knee braces. * Model the proposed configuration without knee braces. * Apply all applicable loading conditions, including: * Dead Load * Roof Live Load * Wind Load (140 MPH, Florida Design Criteria) * Evaluate: * Member stresses * Joint stresses * Weld/connection forces * Deflections * Overall frame stability * Determine whether the knee braces can be eliminated without compromising structural performance. * Recommend any required member size changes or connection reinforcement if necessary. * Provide a concise engineering report summarizing: * Analysis assumptions * FEA results * Stress and deflection plots * Conclusions * Engineering recommendations Project Information * Steel tube portal frame * TS rafters and TS posts * Existing diagonal knee braces at eave connections * Florida design wind speed: 140 MPH * Structural drawing package included * Representative connection details included Deliverables * FEA model (ANSYS, Abaqus, SAP2000, STAAD Pro, RFEM, or equivalent) * Engineering calculation/report (PDF) * Stress contour plots * Deflection plots * Recommendation regarding removal of knee braces * Any required reinforcement recommendations Required Experience Applicants should have experience with: * Structural Steel Design * Finite Element Analysis (FEA) * Portal Frame Analysis * Wind Load Analysis (ASCE 7) * Steel Connection Design * Structural Engineering for Buildings Preferred Software One or more of the following: * ANSYS * Abaqus * SAP2000 * STAAD Pro * RFEM * RISA-3D * Midas Gen * Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Proposal Requirements Please include: 1. Your structural engineering experience. 2. Similar FEA projects completed. 3. Software you will use. 4. Estimated completion time. 5. Examples of previous FEA reports (if available). Timeline Preferred turnaround: 3–5 business days**. Only apply if you have prior experience performing finite element analysis of steel structures and can provide engineering-level documentation.