Senior Space Structures Engineer - Deployable Systems

SpaceNews; Goleta (CA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

Redwire Space Enterprises, INC is seeking a Structural Engineer in Goleta, CA to join our Structural Analysis team. You will develop system-level dynamic finite element models of deployable spacecraft structures and support testing from planning through reporting.

The role requires 5+ years in mechanical/space engineering, experience with Ansys/Nastran/Femap, and vibration testing. Some travel is required to support local testing and customer reviews.

Qualifications

• BS in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Systems or related STEM with 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Space industry experience preferred; analyzing/testing space flight hardware.
• Create finite element models using Nastran or Ansys from CAD geometry with necessary simplifications.
• Vibration test experience (random and sine).
• Ability to travel to support testing; most travel local with some overnight.

Responsibilities

• Develop system-level dynamic finite element models of deployable spacecraft structures using Ansys or Femap/Nastran
• Perform detailed modeling and analysis of composite and metallic structures, including sandwich panel configurations
• Support all phases of component and sub-component structural static and dynamic testing, including test planning, test procedures, on-site test execution, post-test data processing, and test reports
• Correlate analytical models with test results to validate structural performance
• Conduct piece-part stress analyses (including bolted joints) and document in stress reports to support drawing release
• Review engineering designs and drawings, providing clear and actionable analysis feedback to the Design Engineering team
• Work closely with mechanical design, thermal, and systems engineering teams to ensure structural requirements are understood, traceable, and met
• Prepare and present technical reports, findings, and design review materials for internal and customer-facing reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.)
• Serve as a direct interface with customers, ensuring clear communication and alignment on technical issues and requirements
• Independently develop solutions and analysis approaches with minimal oversight

Skills

FEA modelling

Structural analysis

Vibration testing

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical/Electrical/Aerospace/Systems

Tools

Ansys

Femap

Nastran

Job description

Redwire Space Enterprises, INC is seeking a Structural Engineer in Goleta, CA to join our Structural Analysis team. You will develop system-level dynamic finite element models of deployable spacecraft structures and support testing from planning through reporting.

The role requires 5+ years in mechanical/space engineering, experience with Ansys/Nastran/Femap, and vibration testing. Some travel is required to support local testing and customer reviews.