Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer

About the role

Reporting to the Structural Engineering Manager, the Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer will support spacecraft structural systems and subsystem design from concept development through design reviews, prototype testing, manufacturing, and verification testing. This role contributes technical expertise, supports testing activities, and collaborates closely with engineers across multiple disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to identify structural design constraints and recommend mitigation strategies across concept development, prototyping, production, testing, and launch integration
• Support planning and coordination of structural analysis tasks for ongoing programs
• Perform peer reviews of technical analysis material generated within the team
• Assist in creating detailed finite element models of satellite structures and conduct analyses including static, dynamic, buckling, thermal, linear, nonlinear, and transient
• Support mechanical test projects, including coordinating with test houses, assisting with logistics, designing and analyzing test fixtures, and documenting decisions and changes
• Develop test plans, procedures, and reports for mechanical tests such as vibration, shock, acceleration, life, and endurance testing
• Perform structural vibration testing for spacecraft modules, including data acquisition, digital signal processing, and modal analysis
• Interpret test data in real time and provide recommendations when necessary
• Interface with vendors and test facilities to support testing requirements and logistics
• Participate in team discussions involving vehicle arrangement and structural design for current and future projects
• Design and analyze test fixtures for mechanical testing
• Contribute to the development and improvement of tools and processes to enhance structural analysis efficiency
• Work effectively with program engineering leads to help maintain schedules and ensure technical compliance
• Support preparation and presentation of Engineering Review Board (ERB) items as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
• Minimum of 5 years of direct industry experience performing structural analyses using numerical and analytical techniques in space, aerospace, or similar sectors
• Experience with Nastran and Patran
• Experience with vibration and shock testing of aerospace or space-grade equipment and familiarity with relevant military or NASA standards
• Hands-on experience with test planning and execution
• Understanding of launch vehicle loads and their implications for spacecraft systems
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software
• Strong communication and presentation skills for interfacing with customers and vendors
• Highly process‑driven with the ability to contribute to improving structural analysis and testing processes
• U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance
• Master of Science degree in Mechanical or Aerospace