Structural Systems Section Manager

Role Overview

The Structures Department within the Structural Mechanics Subdivision, Vehicle Systems Division, is seeking a well‑qualified individual with a strong foundation in solid mechanics, practical experience in structural analysis using both hand calculations and finite element analysis techniques, a passion for the space industry, and a desire to apply their expertise to help solve a variety of technical challenges.

As the Structural Systems Section Manager, you will provide oversight into the pressurized components and systems for launch and space vehicles developed across the industry, as well as manage the development of technical assessments to help inform customer decisions, including design guidance, industry standards, and evaluations of flight worthiness.

Location:

El Segundo, CA – at least 4 days onsite.

• Work with program offices to identify issues, concerns, and needs in the areas of structural integrity and stability of structures subject to combined mechanical and thermal loads.
• Direct staff effort to conduct independent analyses, participate in hardware acceptance reviews, evaluate/formulate test plans, and monitor contractors’ analyses and test programs.
• Review and sanction the development and implementation of design, analysis, and test methodologies used in the evaluation of structures, including composite over wrapped pressure vessels (COPVs), lines, bellows, valves, plumbing, and LV/SV interfaces.
• Develop and maintain relationships with launch vehicle program offices responsible for stage propulsion applications.
• Conduct line management functions including staffing, mentoring, establishing technical direction and standards, allocating staff support, performing administrative duties and communicating with upper management regarding technical and programmatic issues.
• Develop staff by increasing their technical/functional abilities and knowledge through work assignments, mentoring and training, and regularly providing high‑quality feedback.

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM field or equivalent.
• 8 years of experience in structural design, analysis, and test methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain excellent working relations with customers and contractor personnel.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑disciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated ability to clearly present complex technical assessments to senior and customer leadership.
• Capability to manage and triage multiple high‑priority tasks.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance (issued by the U.S. government). U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

• Advanced degree in a STEM field or equivalent.
• 10 years’ experience in structural design, analysis, and test methodologies.
• Demonstrated project, program, and people leadership experience.
• Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., JIRA, Confluence, etc.).
• Demonstrated ability in applied engineering principles (i.e., direct launch or space vehicle hardware experience).
• Expertise in finite element analysis techniques, material characterization, and structural test techniques.
• Experience in developing risk assessments for space and launch vehicles.
• Experience in evaluating aerospace structures, including composite over wrapped pressure vessels (COPVs), lines, bellows, valves, plumbing, and LV/SV interfaces.
• Background in fracture and failure theory, including finite element analysis, material failure criteria, material characterization, and advanced analysis tool development.
• Knowledge of structural standards related to pressurized launch and space structural systems.
• Active TS and/or SCI security clearance.

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company‑paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

Flexible spending accounts

Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

Relocation assistance

Pro…