About this role
Role Overview
- Perform structural analysis of flight hardware including spacecraft structures, propulsion subsystems, and mechanical assemblies. This includes static, modal, random vibration, sine, shock, and quasi-static load cases.
- Develop and validate finite element models (FEM) for spacecraft and high-performance aerospace structures.
- Perform hand calculations for preliminary analysis in support of FEA.
- Support structural sizing, stiffness optimisation, and load path analysis for launch and in-orbit environments.
- Plan and execute vibration, shock, and structural qualification testing test campaigns end-to-end: write the test plan, instrument the hardware, interpret the data, correlate the model, and close out the qualification report.
- Instrument hardware using accelerometers and strain gauges, and correlate test results back to analytical models.
- Review engineering drawings and collaborate directly with designers to drive structural design decisions.
- Support qualification activities against relevant aerospace and space standards including GEVS, ECSS, and NASA requirements.
- Contribute to structural verification activities across development, integration, and test phases.
Requirements
- Education: B.S. or M.S. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field.
- 3+ years of structural analysis experience on flight hardware, including spacecraft, launch vehicles, missiles, or high-performance structures.
- Experience with structural analysis of spacecraft structures and subsystems, including electronic boxes, propulsion systems, hydraulics, or solar panels.
- Experience with design for manufacturing (DFM).
- Hands-on experience with FEM and ability to justify modelling assumptions and approaches.
- Experience with Altair OptiStruct is a strong plus; proficiency with industry-standard solvers such as NASTRAN, ANSYS, or Abaqus is required.
- Familiarity with launch environments including random vibration PSDs, SRS shock spectra, and quasi-static load factors.
- Practical experience supporting environmental testing, including instrumentation with accelerometers and strain gauges and model correlation activities.
- Confidence reading and reviewing engineering drawings and working directly with design engineers on structural decisions.
Benefits
- Pioneering Space Technology – You'll contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary ion propulsion system and ULEO satellite platform will redefine satellite operations and disrupt traditional LEO operations.
- Unmatched Ownership and Impact – You'll experience a level of ownership that's rare in the space industry. You will participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology.
- Equity and Competitive Salary – You'll receive not just a competitive salary but also company ownership stakes. Your dedication and hard work are rewarded with a share in the technology you help build, ensuring you're a part of our collective success.
- Comprehensive Benefits Package – Including private health insurance with dental and optical coverage, annual healthcare check-ups etc.
- Hybrid Work
- A hybrid setup with one dedicated remote day per week.
- Visa Sponsorship & Relocation Support
- We provide a relocation package and sponsor your visa if you’re joining us from abroad.