Senior Space Structures Engineer — FEM & Flight Analysis

Arcfield; Louisville (CO); On-site; USD 101,000 - 176,000; Full time

Job summary

Arcfield seeks an experienced Structural Engineer to lead and execute analysis for small satellites and related hardware. You will build FEM models, run linear and nonlinear analyses, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize designs for weight, performance, and reliability.

The role requires 8–10 years in engineering (or MS with 6–8 years, or PhD with 3–5 years) in the space sector, plus a Secret clearance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or computation with 8–10 years of experience, or MS with 6–8 years, or PhD with 3–5 years.
• 2+ years of space industry experience including structural analysis and mechanical design for small satellites.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
• Proficiency in finite element analysis software (Femap preferred) and basic structural/dynamic principles.
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, dynamics, and materials science for aerospace applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and assist with structural analysis of small satellites, payloads, sub-assemblies, and ground support equipment.
• Develop FEM models to simulate structural behavior using NASA and MIL-STD standards.
• Perform first-principles calculations throughout the design cycle.
• Conduct linear, nonlinear static, dynamic, and thermal analyses to assess margins and potential failure modes.
• Collaborate with design engineers to optimize structures for performance, weight, and cost while ensuring safety.
• Generate analysis reports, memos, and presentations for stakeholders including management, customers, and regulators.
• Provide structural input during design reviews, test planning, and process reviews.
• Support test engineers in developing and validating structural models and test plans for ground and flight tests.
• Utilize CAD to design satellite components and ground support equipment.
• Identify inefficiencies in analysis processes and propose/implement improvements.
• Specify structural and mechanical hardware and support quoting efforts.

Skills

FEA analysis

CAD modeling

Structural analysis

Mechanical design

First principles analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or computation

MS in engineering or computation

PhD in related field

Tools

Femap

CAD

Job description

Arcfield seeks an experienced Structural Engineer to lead and execute analysis for small satellites and related hardware. You will build FEM models, run linear and nonlinear analyses, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize designs for weight, performance, and reliability.

The role requires 8–10 years in engineering (or MS with 6–8 years, or PhD with 3–5 years) in the space sector, plus a Secret clearance.