Head of Space Structures & Innovation

The Aerospace Corporation; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 168,000 - 252,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Education assistance programs

Telework options

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation, based in El Segundo, CA, seeks a Director of Structural Engineering to lead the Structures Department within the Vehicle Systems Division. You will guide a ~50+ engineer and scientist team across structural analysis, dynamics, and advanced tech, driving mission assurance and innovation for national security and space programs.

Required is a TS clearance, US citizenship, and 10+ years in aerospace structural/mechanical engineering.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil, Physics, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in aerospace structural or mechanical engineering.
• Proven people management experience — hiring, mentoring, performance management.
• Strong track record building relationships with government/aerospace customers and technical stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel and work off-hours (~10%).
• Active Top Secret clearance with ability to obtain and maintain an SCI.
• US citizenship is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and grow a multidisciplinary team delivering structural design, analysis, and test solutions across launch vehicles, spacecraft, missile systems, and emerging missions.
• Own department strategy — staffing, budget, performance management, and technical direction across core capability areas: launch/space structures, thermostructures, engine structural integrity, and advanced concepts.
• Champion innovation — advancing AI/ML integration, GPU-accelerated analysis, physics-informed machine learning, and digital modernization of legacy tools and methods.
• Serve as authoritative technical voice on structural verification, risk assessment, and mission assurance for programs ranging from routine operations to high-risk, rapid-acquisition efforts.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with government and commercial customers, program offices, and cross-functional teams to expand influence and secure new business.
• Mentor engineering talent and cultivate a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Stakeholder relations

Willingness to travel

Clearance: TS

US Citizenship

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil, Physics or related field

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation, based in El Segundo, CA, seeks a Director of Structural Engineering to lead the Structures Department within the Vehicle Systems Division. You will guide a ~50+ engineer and scientist team across structural analysis, dynamics, and advanced tech, driving mission assurance and innovation for national security and space programs.

Required is a TS clearance, US citizenship, and 10+ years in aerospace structural/mechanical engineering.