Lead Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer

Space Dynamics Laboratory; Logan (UT); On-site; USD 88,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Space Dynamics Laboratory in Utah is seeking a senior structural analyst to perform diverse analyses on spacecraft structures and payloads. You will develop FEM models, establish realistic loads and boundary conditions, and corroborate results with first-principles calculations.

The role involves reviewing designs, preparing PDR/CDR materials, and supporting qualification tests. The position requires 5+ years of experience with FEA tools (FEMAP/NASTRAN, ANSYS, Abaqus) and a DoD/NASA-like

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering or closely related field.
• 5+ years of structural analysis experience; equivalent demonstrated responsibility considered.
• Proficiency with finite element analysis software (FEMAP/NASTRAN, ANSYS, Abaqus or equivalent).
• Experience with static structural analysis and structural dynamics including modal analysis and vibration.
• Ability to calculate structural margins of safety and verify results.
• Experience supporting structural or environmental testing and evaluating test results.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and provide design-review feedback.
• Experience communicating with multidisciplinary teams and presenting conclusions.

Responsibilities

• Performs static, quasi-static, modal, random-vibration, and other structural analyses of spacecraft and components.
• Develops and validates finite element models; defines loads, boundaries, connections, and mesh convergence.
• Calculates and documents structural margins of safety for various failure modes.
• Reviews 3D designs and drawings for structural adequacy and interface compatibility.
• Prepares analyses, design trades, verification plans, and technical reports for reviews.
• Develops structural test predictions and supports qualification tests; evaluates results.
• Collaborates with labs, fabrication, procurement, program management, and other teams.
• Manages analysis scope, schedule, and deliverables; mentors junior engineers.

Skills

Finite Element Analysis

Aerospace Hardware

Independent Model Validation

Python MATLAB

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Masters in related field

Tools

FEMAP

NASTRAN

ANSYS

Abaqus

HyperMesh

Siemens NX

Job description

Space Dynamics Laboratory in Utah is seeking a senior structural analyst to perform diverse analyses on spacecraft structures and payloads. You will develop FEM models, establish realistic loads and boundary conditions, and corroborate results with first-principles calculations.

The role involves reviewing designs, preparing PDR/CDR materials, and supporting qualification tests. The position requires 5+ years of experience with FEA tools (FEMAP/NASTRAN, ANSYS, Abaqus) and a DoD/NASA-like