Structural Analyst

AST SpaceMobile; Lanham (MD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

AST SpaceMobile seeks a mechanical engineer specializing in spacecraft structural analysis to build finite element models using FEMAP and NASTRAN, focusing on static and quasi-static load cases and margins of safety. You will work with cross-disciplinary teams to evaluate architectures and support qualification testing.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years of hands-on experience with spacecraft structures, composite space structures, and the ability to translate loads into validated test plans,

Qualifications

• BS degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field is required. An MS degree is preferred for the senior-level position.
• A minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in mechanical/structural analysis of spacecraft, including FEMAP and NASTRAN expertise, finite element modeling best practices, and the use of free body diagrams and top-level analysis that resolves computer-derived loads in a way that can be intuitively checked.
• Experience with composite space structures.
• Able to identify critical loads to be recovered in the coupled loads analysis (CLA).

Responsibilities

• Conduct structural analysis of space vehicles, define failure cases, and calculate margins of safety.
• Build finite element models and run static and quasi-static analysis cases for both composite and metallic structures.
• Translate load states into static qualification testing of actual structural assemblies.
• Support architecture concept evaluation and lead trade studies.
• Disposition non-conformance issues
• Participate in material and failure review boards.

Skills

Strong English communication

Independent work

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Willingness to travel

Education

BS degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

MS degree preferred

Tools

NASTRAN

FEMAP

MS Excel

MATLAB

CAD Packages

Job description

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today’s five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.

Position Overview

We are seeking a mechanical engineer with deep experience in the structural analysis of spacecraft. In this role you will build finite element models and run analysis cases in FEMAP and NASTRAN, with an emphasis on static and quasi-static load cases and will define failure cases and calculate margins of safety for space vehicle structures. The ideal candidate will work across disciplines to support architecture concept evaluation, trade studies, static qualification testing, and material and failure review boards.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct structural analysis of space vehicles, define failure cases, and calculate margins of safety.
• Build finite element models and run static and quasi-static analysis cases for both composite and metallic structures.
• Translate load states into static qualification testing of actual structural assemblies.
• Support architecture concept evaluation and lead trade studies.
• Disposition non-conformance issues
• Participate in material and failure review boards.

Qualifications

Education

BS degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field is required. An MS degree is preferred for the senior-level position.

Experience

• A minimum of 7 years of hands‑on experience in mechanical/structural analysis of spacecraft, including FEMAP and NASTRAN expertise, finite element modeling best practices, and the use of free body diagrams and top‑level analysis that resolves computer‑derived loads in a way that can be intuitively checked. Both mid‑level and senior candidates will be considered.
• Experience with composite space structures.
• Able to identify critical loads to be recovered in the coupled loads analysis (CLA).

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic familiarity with dynamic loads and modal analysis.
• Ability to code in any number of languages or toolset APIs to automate rudimentary tasks and improve efficiency.
• Experience dealing with materials properties and databases, and defining allowables.

Soft Skills

• Innovative and creative, with a willingness to challenge the status quo.
• Ability to work independently on complex problems.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a multidisciplinary team with other engineers.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent English written and verbal communication skills.

Technology Stack

• Complete knowledge of NASTRAN solution sequences, case control, and bulk data cards.
• FEMAP and finite element modeling best practices.
• MS Excel and the broader MS Office suite (very strong competency required).
• MATLAB and CAD packages (preferred).

Physical Requirements

Ability to work in a standard office environment and use a computer for extended periods.

Additional Requirements

• This position requires domestic and international travel.
• This role involves access to export‑controlled technical data. Applicants must be U.S. citizens to comply with U.S. ITAR regulations.

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.

AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.