Structural Technologies Section Manager

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators.

Join us and take your place in space.

The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls;

robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.

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 Technologies Section Manager, you will lead a newly formed team focused on advanced structural analysis, AI/ML integration, tool development, and emerging technologies.

You will oversee a technical team who provide direct space and launch vehicle program support while also developing methodologies and automation tools to improve efficiency, accuracy, and technical leadership across the department.

This position is based in El Segundo, CA., requiring at least 4 days onsite.

• Lead a team of analysis specialists providing direct support to launch vehicle and spacecraft programs requiring expertise in nonlinear material behavior, explicit dynamics, progressive damage modeling, and coupled multi-physics analysis
• Work with program offices to identify complex structural challenges requiring advanced methodologies including plasticity, progressive damage, probabilistic analysis, and uncertainty quantification
• Direct staff effort to conduct independent advanced analyses, develop innovative solutions, and provide technical consultation to hardware sections across the department
• Review and sanction the development and implementation of cutting-edge analysis methodologies, including AI/ML integration, additive manufacturing qualification, and structural optimization techniques
• Oversee the development and maintenance of in-house codes, automation tools, and workflow improvements that enhance department-wide efficiency and accuracy
• Utilize project management tools (e.g., JIRA) for tracking and prioritization of tasking
• Provide embedded analyst support to other sections for complex program problems, troubleshooting models, and advanced FEM techniques
• Foster the development and delivery of training programs on advanced analysis methods, probabilistic techniques, explicit dynamics, AI/ML, and emerging technologies
• Create technical memoranda, best practice guides, and validation documentation to disseminate knowledge across the department
• Conduct line management functions including staffing, mentoring, establishing technical direction and…