Senior Structural Analyst, Space Optics & Payloads

Segment (Twilio); Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division in Tucson, AZ is hiring a Senior Structural Analyst I/II to support space payload programs. You will analyze spacecraft components, develop models, and collaborate with design engineers to optimize structures for weight and reliability.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering, 5+ years of experience (8+ for II), familiarity with ANSYS or equivalent FEA tools, and the ability to obtain a U.S. government security clearance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical structural analysis.
• Experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Femap/NASTRAN, etc.).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis of spacecraft components and assemblies using analytical methods and finite element analysis (FEA) tools.
• Develop and validate analytical models to predict structural behavior under integration, test, launch, operational conditions.
• Evaluate static, dynamic, thermal, and fatigue loads to ensure compliance with design requirements and safety margins.
• Collaborate with design engineers to optimize structures for weight, manufacturability, and performance.
• Support the development of test plans and interpret structural test data to correlate and validate analysis models.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations to communicate analysis results and recommendations.
• Participate in design reviews and provide structural engineering input throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Stay current with industry standards, materials, and analysis techniques.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of analysis processes, tools, and best practices.
• Use investigative and trouble‑shooting skills to assess issues and develop resolutions in the lab.
• Work proactively to complete tasks with some modest direction.
• Communicate effectively with direct supervisor, project management, customers, and team members across disciplines.
• Significantly contribute to program and customer meetings and reviews.
• Support travel as required, including working off‑site.

Skills

FEA tools

Structural analysis

Technical writing

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Tools

ANSYS

Femap/NASTRAN

Job description

Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division in Tucson, AZ is hiring a Senior Structural Analyst I/II to support space payload programs. You will analyze spacecraft components, develop models, and collaborate with design engineers to optimize structures for weight and reliability.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering, 5+ years of experience (8+ for II), familiarity with ANSYS or equivalent FEA tools, and the ability to obtain a U.S. government security clearance.