Structural Analysis Engineer IV

Arcfield; Louisville (CO); On-site; USD 101,000 - 176,000; Full time

Job summary

Arcfield seeks an experienced Structural Engineer to lead and execute analysis for small satellites and related hardware. You will build FEM models, run linear and nonlinear analyses, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize designs for weight, performance, and reliability.

The role requires 8–10 years in engineering (or MS with 6–8 years, or PhD with 3–5 years) in the space sector, plus a Secret clearance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or computation with 8–10 years of experience, or MS with 6–8 years, or PhD with 3–5 years.
• 2+ years of space industry experience including structural analysis and mechanical design for small satellites.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
• Proficiency in finite element analysis software (Femap preferred) and basic structural/dynamic principles.
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, dynamics, and materials science for aerospace applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and assist with structural analysis of small satellites, payloads, sub-assemblies, and ground support equipment.
• Develop FEM models to simulate structural behavior using NASA and MIL-STD standards.
• Perform first-principles calculations throughout the design cycle.
• Conduct linear, nonlinear static, dynamic, and thermal analyses to assess margins and potential failure modes.
• Collaborate with design engineers to optimize structures for performance, weight, and cost while ensuring safety.
• Generate analysis reports, memos, and presentations for stakeholders including management, customers, and regulators.
• Provide structural input during design reviews, test planning, and process reviews.
• Support test engineers in developing and validating structural models and test plans for ground and flight tests.
• Utilize CAD to design satellite components and ground support equipment.
• Identify inefficiencies in analysis processes and propose/implement improvements.
• Specify structural and mechanical hardware and support quoting efforts.

Skills

FEA analysis

CAD modeling

Structural analysis

Mechanical design

First principles analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or computation

MS in engineering or computation

PhD in related field

Tools

Femap

CAD

Job description

Responsibilities

This role will require the engineer to work cross-functionally and identify needs from other engineering and programmatic groups including systems engineers and program managers. In addition, they will be required to tackle open-ended analysis problems that require proactive communication and problem-solving.

In general, the engineer will be required to support the following tasks:

• Lead and assist with the structural analysis of small satellites, payloads, sub-assemblies, and ground support equipment.
• Develop and execute finite element models (FEM) to simulate and predict the structural behavior of various components using NASA & Mil Standards.
• Perform first-principles calculations throughout the design cycle.
• Perform linear and nonlinear static, dynamic, and thermal analyses to assess stress margins, fatigue life, and potential failure modes.
• Collaborate with design engineers to optimize structural designs, materials, and configurations to meet performance, weight, and cost targets while ensuring structural safety and reliability.
• Conduct trade studies and sensitivity analyses to evaluate design alternatives, assess design margins, and mitigate structural risks and uncertainties.
• Generate comprehensive analysis reports, technical memos, and presentations to communicate analysis results, conclusions, and recommendations to project stakeholders, including management, customers, and regulatory authorities.
• Provide feedback and input to cross-functional teams:
• Provide structural input to help guide preliminary & detailed designs.
• Provide structural feedback on how to correct any design non-compliances.
• Provide structural input during test planning phases and process review.
• Support and collaborate with test engineers and technicians (AI&T staff) on the development and validation of structural models, simulations, and test plans for ground and flight testing.
• Utilize CAD software to design and develop various satellite components and ground support equipment.
• Support & design environmental test campaigns.
• Proactively identify inefficiencies or issues with analysis processes and propose / implement solutions.
• Specify structural & mechanical hardware and support quoting efforts.

Qualifications

REQUIRED:

• Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering or computation field plus 8-10 years or MS plus 6-8 years professional working experience in structural engineering positions or PhD with 3-5 years.
• 2+ years of professional working experience in the space industry:
• Minimum of 2+ years of experience in structural analysis.
• Minimum of 2+ years of experience in Mechanical Design for small satellites using CAD software.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
• Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) software (Femap preferred), proficient in basic structural & dynamic principles.
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, dynamics, and materials science principles relevant to aerospace applications.
• CAD Modeling Experience.

Preferred

• Excellent problem-solving skills and analytical abilities, with the capability to identify, assess, and resolve complex structural challenges and performance issues.
• Ability to bound difficult problems through first principles and hand calculations.
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including engineers, managers, and customers.
• Detail-oriented mindset with a commitment to quality, accuracy, and compliance in all aspects of structural analysis and evaluation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a small team environment with little oversight.

Equal Pay Act

This is the projected compensation range for this position. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories. In addition, Arcfield invests in its employees beyond just compensation. Arcfield ’s benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, Short Term and Long-Term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections. Min: $101,175.06 Max: $175,923.79

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and federal government contractor. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment as protected by law.