Senior Structural Analyst, Space Systems (I/II)

Rocket Lab Corp.; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 85,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab Corp. in the United States seeks a Senior Structural Analyst I/II for the Optical Systems division in Tucson, AZ.

You will perform structural analyses of spacecraft components, develop analytical models, and validate designs for space-grade applications, including weight optimization and safety margins. Collaboration with design engineers and participation in design reviews are key, with opportunities to travel as needed.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis of spacecraft components and assemblies using analytical methods and 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 design requirements and safety margins.
• Collaborate with design engineers to optimize structures for weight, manufacturability, and performance.
• Support development of test plans and interpret structural test data to validate analysis models.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations to communicate results and recommendations.
• Participate in design reviews and provide structural engineering input throughout the product 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.
• Communicate effectively with 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

Experience in structural analysis

FEA tools

Technical documentation

Security clearance readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Tools

ANSYS

Femap/NASTRAN

Job description

Rocket Lab Corp. in the United States seeks a Senior Structural Analyst I/II for the Optical Systems division in Tucson, AZ.

You will perform structural analyses of spacecraft components, develop analytical models, and validate designs for space-grade applications, including weight optimization and safety margins. Collaboration with design engineers and participation in design reviews are key, with opportunities to travel as needed.