Senior Spacecraft Structural Analyst

ViaSat Inc.; Rhode Island; On-site; USD 121,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Viasat is seeking a Senior Structural Analyst to perform spacecraft structural analyses, develop models, generate stress reports, and support trades. You will work with engineers across disciplines to ensure mission requirements and environmental specifications are met.

The role emphasizes hands-on FEA, industry standards, and clear communication of results to program teams and customers, with growth opportunities in aerospace hardware design.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• 4+ years of relevant experience in structural analysis of spaceflight hardware.
• Proficiency with Nastran (MSC or Simcenter): static, normal modes, buckling, frequency response.
• Proficiency with Simcenter Femap modeling and post-processing.
• Demonstrated experience applying NASA, AIAA, ECSS, and MIL standards to design, testing, and qualification.
• Ability to generate high-quality analysis documentation.
• U.S. citizen, with ability to obtain a Secret-level security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Perform detailed structural analysis of spacecraft primary/secondary structures, payload components, mechanisms, and electronic packaging using finite element analysis and hand calculations.
• Develop conceptual structural models to support proposals and trade studies.
• Produce stress reports and slide packages to support design reviews.
• Evaluate structural impacts of design changes, materials, manufacturing processes, and interfaces.
• Support structural testing activities, including test plan development, fixture design, correlation of FEMs, and verification of requirements.
• Collaborate with mechanical, systems, materials, and thermal analysts to optimize hardware performance.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace standards (NASA, AIAA, ECSS, MIL).
• Communicate analysis results clearly to program teams, leadership, and external customers.

Skills

Strong communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Analytical thinking

Engineering fundamentals

Attention to detail

Education

B.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

LS-DYNA

ANSYS

Abaqus

Python

MATLAB

Nastran (MSC or Simcenter)

Simcenter Femap

Job description

Viasat is seeking a Senior Structural Analyst to perform spacecraft structural analyses, develop models, generate stress reports, and support trades. You will work with engineers across disciplines to ensure mission requirements and environmental specifications are met.

The role emphasizes hands-on FEA, industry standards, and clear communication of results to program teams and customers, with growth opportunities in aerospace hardware design.