Senior Spacecraft Structural Analyst

Viasat; Rhode Island; On-site; USD 121,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

Viasat seeks an experienced structural engineer to perform detailed analyses of spacecraft structures, payload components, and electronic packaging using finite element methods. You will collaborate with mechanical, systems, materials, and thermal engineers to ensure reliability and mission success.

The role emphasizes rigorous documentation, compliance with NASA and military standards, and clear communication of results to program teams and customers.

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.
• Working knowledge of aerospace engineering materials, processes, and parts.
• Experience applying NASA, AIAA, ECSS, and MIL standards to structural design, testing, and qualification.
• Ability to generate high-quality analysis documentation.

Responsibilities

• Perform detailed structural analysis of spacecraft primary/secondary structures and payload components using FEM 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 and verification of requirements.
• Communicate analysis results clearly to program teams and external customers.

Skills

Structural analysis

FEM knowledge

Cross-functional teamwork

Standards knowledge

NASA/AIAA standards

Security clearance

Education

B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering

M.S. preferred

Tools

Nastran (MSC or Simcenter)

Simcenter Femap

LS-DYNA

ANSYS

Abaqus

Python

MATLAB

Job description

Viasat seeks an experienced structural engineer to perform detailed analyses of spacecraft structures, payload components, and electronic packaging using finite element methods. You will collaborate with mechanical, systems, materials, and thermal engineers to ensure reliability and mission success.

The role emphasizes rigorous documentation, compliance with NASA and military standards, and clear communication of results to program teams and customers.