Principal Analyst

Pennant Solutions Group; Mukilteo (WA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Pennant Solutions Group is seeking a Principal Analyst in Mukilteo, Washington. This role involves applying advanced principles of physics for the design and validation of aerospace systems. Responsibilities include leading structural analysis, developing engineering reports, and mentoring junior engineers. Candidates should have at least 8 years of experience in aerospace or defense, strong proficiency in engineering tools, and excellent communication skills. U.S. citizenship is required, along with the ability to obtain a DoD Secret clearance.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in aerospace, defense, or a similar high-performance engineering environment.
• At least 1 year of leadership or management experience.
• Strong proficiency with engineering tools and expertise in structural analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural assessments using established aerospace analysis methods.
• Verify and document compliance with applicable standards and specifications.
• Mentor and support the development of junior engineers.

Skills

Structural analysis

Finite element methods

Technical documentation

Leadership

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

FEMAP

NASTRAN

LS-DYNA

CATIA V5

SolidWorks

Microsoft Office

Job description

PRINCIPAL ANALYST

Job Description

Overview

The Principal Analyst applies advanced principles of physics—including classical mechanics, aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism—to support the design, development, and validation of aerospace systems. This role is responsible for leading structural design and analysis efforts from early concept through final engineering release, including detailed drawings and stress reports.

This individual plays a key role in test planning, technical documentation, and solving complex engineering problems such as pyrotechnic and pneumatic gas dynamics, multi-body kinematics, and heat transfer.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply physics-based analysis to evaluate and predict system performance, inform concept of operations, and define subsystem requirements
• Lead structural assessments of systems, components, and mechanisms using established aerospace analysis methods (hand calculations, finite element analysis, fatigue, and damage tolerance)
• Provide technical leadership at the program level to ensure designs meet all performance and compliance requirements
• Verify and document system compliance with applicable standards and specifications
• Develop and deliver detailed engineering reports, analyses, and presentations
• Establish and maintain engineering standards, best practices, and training materials
• Mentor and support the development of junior engineers

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in aerospace, defense, or a similar high-performance engineering environment, including at least 1 year of leadership or management experience
• Strong proficiency with engineering tools such as FEMAP, NASTRAN, LS-DYNA, CATIA V5, SolidWorks, and Microsoft Office
• Deep expertise in structural analysis, finite element methods, dynamics/kinematics, materials, and test methodologies
• Strong foundation in core engineering principles and analytical methods
• Proven ability to lead complex, multidisciplinary engineering efforts from concept through execution
• Self-starter with the ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently with minimal oversight
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation and reporting
• U.S. citizenship required; ability to obtain a DoD Secret clearance