Spaceplane Structural Analyst — High-Impact Flight Hardware

Dawn Aerospace; Christchurch (VA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Dawn Aerospace is seeking a Structural Analyst to join its Spaceplane team in Christchurch. You will develop and validate the structures that enable routine, scalable access to space, collaborating with aerodynamics, propulsion and manufacturing teams.

You will assess composite and metallic structures, build FE models, and support test plans and certification activities through the product lifecycle. Strong communication and rapid development mindset are essential.

Qualifications

• A relevant aerospace or mechanical engineering degree.
• At least 3 years of structural analysis experience in high‑performance engineering.
• Strong understanding of composite materials, laminate theory and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with major structural analysis tools and aerospace verification methods.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis and validation of airframe structures and components.
• Develop finite element models to predict structural performance under flight, ground and test loading.
• Evaluate strength, stiffness, fatigue and damage tolerance of composite and metallic structures.
• Plan and execute materials testing programmes to support analysis and certification.
• Collaborate with design engineers to optimise structures for weight and manufacturability.

Skills

Structural analysis

Aerospace environment

Communication

Education

Aerospace Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Physics

Tools

3DEXPERIENCE CATIA/SIMULIA

Abaqus

Ansys

Job description

Dawn Aerospace is seeking a Structural Analyst to join its Spaceplane team in Christchurch. You will develop and validate the structures that enable routine, scalable access to space, collaborating with aerodynamics, propulsion and manufacturing teams.

You will assess composite and metallic structures, build FE models, and support test plans and certification activities through the product lifecycle. Strong communication and rapid development mindset are essential.