Spacecraft & Missile Dynamics Engineer (FEA)

D.O.M. magazine; Sunnyvale (CA); Hybrid; USD 86,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Lockheed Martin Space is seeking a Mechanical Engineer - Dynamics - FEM to perform advanced structural dynamic analyses for missile and spacecraft hardware in California. The role focuses on developing and maintaining FE models, conducting loads and test activities, and supporting cross-functional teams in design optimization.

You will mentor juniors, prepare test plans, and contribute to peer reviews while operating in a fast-paced defense environment with strict security requirements.

Qualifications

• Solid understanding of structures and structural dynamics
• Proficiency in finite element analysis principles
• Experience with NX/NASTRAN finite element modeling or equivalent
• Knowledge of missile or spacecraft structural dynamic methods
• US Citizen with active Secret Clearance; ability to obtain Top Secret Clearance
• Masters degree preferred in related field

Responsibilities

• Perform structural dynamic analyses for missile and spacecraft flight hardware
• Produce and maintain FE models simulating loading, deployment motions, and separation events
• Perform loads development, shock and vibration environments, and testing
• Prepare test plans, execute static, separation dynamics, vibration, modal and shock tests, and write reports
• Collaborate on multidisciplinary design trades and performance assessments
• Support dynamic test definitions, data reduction, and comparisons to analysis
• Provide data package documentation and present analysis results to engineers and customers
• Mentor junior engineers and cross-train other disciplines
• Ensure compliance with program requirements, budgets, and schedules

Skills

Structural dynamics

Finite element analysis

NX/NASTRAN

Missile/spacecraft dynamics

Security clearance

Team collaboration

MATLAB

Abaqus

CREO

Test planning & execution

Education

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

NX/NASTRAN

Abaqus

LS-Dyna

MATLAB

Mathcad

CREO

Job description

Lockheed Martin Space is seeking a Mechanical Engineer - Dynamics - FEM to perform advanced structural dynamic analyses for missile and spacecraft hardware in California. The role focuses on developing and maintaining FE models, conducting loads and test activities, and supporting cross-functional teams in design optimization.

You will mentor juniors, prepare test plans, and contribute to peer reviews while operating in a fast-paced defense environment with strict security requirements.