Senior Loads and Dynamics Engineer
About the role
Cowboy Space Corp. is building the infrastructure to power and connect the orbital economy. Our satellites operate in Low Earth Orbit to collect sunlight and enable a new class of capabilities—from powering on-orbit compute, to transmitting energy via infrared lasers (space-to-earth and space-to-space), to delivering secure, high-bandwidth optical data. By rethinking how energy and data are generated and distributed in space, we’re unlocking entirely new ways to operate both in orbit and on Earth.
Responsibilities
Own the vehicle loads as the discipline lead: quasi-static, transient, and dynamic load cases across ground handling, ascent, separation, entry, landing, and reuse.
Establish the methods, tools, and standards the loads and dynamics discipline works to.
Build and maintain structural dynamic models (FEM, modal, coupled loads) and reconcile them with test and flight data.
Define vibration, shock, acoustic, and random-vibe environments for components, mechanisms, and payloads.
Perform coupled loads analysis (CLA) and integrate propulsion, aero, GNC, and structural inputs into a consistent load set.
Deliver clear, timely load sets and interface requirements to structures, mechanisms, and propulsion teams.
Assess flutter, buffet, slosh, and other aeroelastic/coupled dynamic phenomena.
Support test planning and correlation—modal surveys, static and dynamic test campaigns—and update models from results.
Investigate anomalies and reconstruct flight loads from telemetry to improve future load predictions.
Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance across the structures and mechanisms teams.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering field.
8+ years of experience in loads, structural dynamics, or vibration analysis for flight hardware or high-performance systems.
Deep proficiency with finite element modeling and dynamic analysis (modal, transient, frequency response).
Demonstrated ownership of load cases and environments that drove the structural design of a flight vehicle or major system.
Proven ability to correlate models against test or flight data and adjust methodology accordingly.
Preferred Qualifications
Advanced degree in a relevant engineering field.
Experience with launch vehicles or reusable flight systems.
Hands-on experience owning coupled loads analysis (CLA) campaigns.
Familiarity with aeroelasticity (flutter, buffet) and coupled phenomena.
Experience defining and correlating vibration, shock, and acoustic environments.
Proficiency with tools such as Adams, LS-DYNA, or equivalent, plus scripting (Python/MATLAB) for load-set processing and automation.
Experience supporting structural test campaigns and modal surveys.
Track record of mentoring engineers and setting technical direction without formal authority.
Pay & Benefits
The salary range for this position is $95,000 – $130,000 annually. The actual base salary offered will depend on factors such as job-related skills, experience, qualifications, and internal equity.
Equity in Cowboy Space Corp.
Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance.
401(k) retirement savings plan.
Paid time off.
10 paid holidays per calendar year.
Paid parental leave.
Relocation assistance if applicable.
Daily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacks.
ITAR Requirements
Export Control Requirement: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Learn more about ITAR here.