Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer – Deployables

Opterus Research and Development; Loveland (CO); Hybrid; USD 98,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work schedule

Medical, Dental, Vision

401K matching

Paid holidays

Job summary

Opterus in Loveland, Colorado, is seeking a Structural Analysis Engineer II/III to shape system architecture and deliver robust, scalable analytical solutions. You will develop advanced finite element models for deployable space structures, including fibers, laminates, and composites, while collaborating across mechanical, manufacturing, and program teams.

The role requires deep structural theory, proficiency in FEA tools (Abaqus preferred), and programming skills (Python, MATLAB).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in structural/related engineering.
• 3+ years in structural design and analysis, esp. aerospace deployables.
• Proficiency with Abaqus or equivalent FEA software.
• Programming skills in Python or MATLAB for analysis customization.
• Knowledge of composites, laminate theory, and failure analysis.
• Experience with nonlinear analysis, dynamics, buckling, or thermal-structural coupling.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to design and analysis of composite, metallic, and hybrid structures for deployable space systems.
• Develop and refine advanced finite element models for spaceflight structures with nonlinear and dynamic behavior.
• Build and run FEA and classical analyses to evaluate strength, stiffness, and environmental performance.
• Develop load cases for launch, on-orbit, and deployment environments.
• Support structural verification plans and correlate analysis to test data.
• Mentor junior engineers and share modeling best practices.
• Collaborate with design, test, and program management teams.

Skills

Structural analysis

Finite Element Analysis

Python

MATLAB

Composite materials

Strong communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Structural/Mechanical/Civil/Aerospace engineering

Tools

Abaqus

SolidWorks

Thermal Desktop

Job description

Opterus in Loveland, Colorado, is seeking a Structural Analysis Engineer II/III to shape system architecture and deliver robust, scalable analytical solutions. You will develop advanced finite element models for deployable space structures, including fibers, laminates, and composites, while collaborating across mechanical, manufacturing, and program teams.

The role requires deep structural theory, proficiency in FEA tools (Abaqus preferred), and programming skills (Python, MATLAB).