Sr. Structural Engineer

Magma Space; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Flexible work schedule

Relocation assistance

On-site gym access

Comprehensive health benefits

Job summary

A cutting-edge aerospace company in Washington, DC, is seeking a Senior Structural Engineer to lead the design and analysis of advanced satellite subsystems. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in space hardware design, proficiency in 3D CAD and FEA tools, and a strong collaborative mindset. This role offers a competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits, and a chance to contribute to cutting-edge aerospace projects that enhance satellite capabilities.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in space hardware design and test.
• Experience with mechanical assembly and thermal-vacuum cycling.
• Familiarity with materials selection for space applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural design, analysis, and testing of components.
• Perform static and dynamic analyses to validate performance.
• Collaborate with multiple teams for systems-level integration.

Skills

3D CAD proficiency

Expertise in FEA

Problem-solving skills

Collaborative spirit

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Job description

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Senior Structural Engineer to join our team in Washington, DC. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in structural design, with experience performing static and dynamic, thermal, vibration, materials, and fatigue analyses. This role requires a hands‑on approach, the ability to design, develop and test structures for our satellite subsystems, and a strong team‑oriented mindset.

About Us

At Magma Space, we’re on a mission to deliver the most precise spacecraft pointing ever achieved. We are developing groundbreaking control actuators, including magnetically levitated reaction wheels and control moment gyroscopes that drastically reduce onboard vibrations while delivering unmatched momentum. But our vision goes beyond hardware - we’re at the forefront of integrating AI‑enhanced software for real‑time environment monitoring with novel sensing capabilities. Our goal is to provide satellites with an unprecedented level of stability, agility, and accuracy, enhancing satellite capabilities like never before.

We’re proud to be supported by NASA and the U.S. Space Force, and we’re now partnering with the Department of Defense on a RPOD (Rendezvous, Proximity Operations, and Docking) project. Across our efforts, you’ll oversee structural design, analysis, testing and more. Your first project will be in designing, integrating and testing a set of four advanced reaction wheels to enable rapid, ultra‑precise spacecraft maneuvers for defense and scientific missions.

Join us at Magma Space and make a lasting impact on the next generation of space missions!

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the structural design, analysis, test and build of key components across our products.
• Drive full‑life‑cycle product development: concept, design, prototype, test, and manufacture.
• Perform static and dynamic structural, vibrational, fatigue and thermal analyses (including FEA with software like Nastran, ANSYS, or SolidWorks Simulation) to predict and validate performance margins.
• Define and manage a Bill of Materials (BOM), work with vendors on component specifications, evaluate bids, and oversee procurement for structural parts.
• Develop and execute test plans in lab and HIL/SIL environments; analyze data, identify failure modes, and iterate designs to meet customer requirements.
• Collaborate closely with GNC, electrical, mechanical and software teams to ensure seamless systems‑level integration.
• Document design decisions, test reports, and interface control documents (ICDs) for both internal review and DoD deliverables.
• Contribute to company strategy with new proposals and mission concepts.
• Help implement new theories, tools and capabilities into structural and mechanical engineering efforts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering discipline.
• 5+ years of hands‑on experience in space hardware design, integration, and test —preferably reaction wheels, gyros, or other flight mechanisms.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks, Creo, or NX) and familiarity with GD&T for detailed part and assembly drawings.
• Strong background in FEA (Nastran/Patran, ANSYS, COMSOL, or equivalent) and thermal analysis techniques.
• Hands‑on lab experience: mechanical assembly, vibration testing, thermal‑vacuum cycling, and/or precision metrology.
• Familiarity with materials selection for space (aluminum alloys, composites, bearing materials, lubrication) and cleanroom protocols.
• Excellent problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills, with a track record of bringing complex hardware from concept to flight readiness.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and communicate effectively with both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• U.S. citizen or permanent resident required (DoD project eligibility).

What We Offer

• The opportunity to work on cutting‑edge space mechanisms with real DoD applications.
• A highly collaborative, innovative, and rapidly growing team environment.
• Competitive compensation package, including salary and equity.
• Comprehensive benefits: health, dental, vision, 401(k) matching, paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays.
• On‑site gym access and wellness programs.
• Flexible work schedule and remote/hybrid options.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
• The chance to shape the future of satellite autonomy and national security.

The selected applicant will be required to pass a pre‑employment third‑party background check and reference check.

Magma Space Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Even if you don’t meet all the qualifications as outlined here, but are still excited about the role, we encourage you to apply anyway.