Senior Structural Analysis Engineer El Segundo, California

Icarus Industries; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a pioneering aerospace firm as a Senior Structural Analysis Engineer, where you will be at the forefront of developing solar-powered drones that revolutionize connectivity. This role emphasizes advanced structural analysis to ensure the reliability and performance of innovative designs in extreme conditions. You will collaborate with diverse teams to optimize designs, validate models through rigorous testing, and contribute to cutting-edge aerospace projects. With a focus on lightweight, high-strength solutions, this position offers a unique opportunity to impact the future of aerospace technology while enjoying a supportive work environment that values work-life balance and personal productivity.

Benefits

Large equity in the company

Comprehensive healthcare, dental, and vision plan

Dream desk setup

Daily lunch and unlimited Celsius

Flexible work arrangements

Qualifications

• 5+ years of structural analysis experience required.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in relevant engineering discipline.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural analysis of solar-powered drones under extreme conditions.
• Perform detailed FEA to evaluate stress and deformation.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure system-level performance.

Skills

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Aerospace Materials Knowledge

Structural Design Optimization

Collaboration Across Disciplines

Nonlinear Materials Knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Siemens NASTRAN

Job description

Icarus is at the forefront of aerospace innovation, developing solar-powered stratospheric drones designed to enhance global connectivity and observation. Operating at altitudes 20 times closer to Earth than Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, our drones deliver superior 5G direct-to-device communication and ultra-high-resolution imagery. With the capability to remain airborne for up to a year through autonomous solar-powered operations, Icarus offers continuous, cost-effective solutions that surpass traditional cell towers and satellite systems.

Role Description

As a Senior Structural Analysis Engineer, you will lead the structural analysis of our solar-powered stratospheric drone to ensure reliability, efficiency, and performance under extreme operating conditions. This role requires advanced analytical expertise, a thorough understanding of aerospace materials, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines to deliver lightweight, high-strength designs optimized for high-altitude operations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Perform detailed finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate stress, strain, and deformation under various loading scenarios, including aerodynamics, aeroelasticity (fluid-structure interaction), and wind loadings.
2. Work directly with the mechanical design engineer to optimize structural designs to achieve weight reduction without compromising safety, performance, or compliance.
3. Develop and oversee structural testing campaigns to validate analysis models, including static, dynamic, and fatigue testing.
4. Work closely with teams in aerodynamics, thermal, propulsion, and manufacturing to ensure seamless integration and system-level performance.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.
2. Minimum of 5 years of structural analysis experience.

Preferred Skills:

1. Experience with Siemens NASTRAN or other structural analysis tools.
2. Experience with aircraft projects.
3. Experience with aeroelasticity, fluid-structure interaction (FSI), and/or structural dynamics.
4. Experience with nonlinear materials such as metal plasticity and adhesive joints.

Compensation and Benefits:

1. $120,000 to $160,000 salary.
2. Large equity in the company.
3. Comprehensive healthcare, dental, and vision plan with HSA.
4. Dream desk setup, including tools and whatever else you need to be your most productive self.
5. Daily lunch and unlimited Celsius.
6. Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance.