Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I​/II

Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I/II

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I/II contributes to the analysis, design validation, and future improvements of our suite of Space Systems and Space Components. You will be expected to define loads and environments, perform detailed simulations and physics-based analysis, guide design, and help validate analysis, design, and system performance through test.

You will support the Vehicle Design Director and Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

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Please note:

this position can be hired at the Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I or Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer II level)

What You'll Get To Do:

• Define, process, and interpret static and dynamic ground test & flight data, including: sensor selection, data acquisition and validation, and environmental determination (random vibration, shock, quasi-static, acoustic, pressure, and thermal)
• Perform, validate, and document structural analyses of primary and secondary vehicle structures, including: finite element model verification and validation, material selection, performance of trade-off studies, and mass optimization
• Perform structural and dynamic simulations, including: static, modal, random vibration, buckling, and thermoelastic
• Work closely with design and test engineers to iterate through design concepts, determine test requirements, and demonstrate positive structural margins
• Define test requirements and directly support testing of vehicle subsystems and components
• Lead technical projects and programs, as required, both within analysis and across disciplines and teams
• Help implement new theory and tools within the team and establish best practices in areas of technical expertise

Qualifications You'll Bring As Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, or other engineering discipline
• Eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements
• Structural analysis experience in the aerospace industry
• Experience using NX Nastran, NX CAD, and Teamcenter packages

Qualifications You'll Bring As Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer II:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, or other engineering discipline
• Eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements
• 2+ years of structural analysis experience in the aerospace industry
• Experience using NX Nastran, NX CAD, and Teamcenter packages

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Master's or PhD in mechanical engineering, or other engineering discipline
• Active security clearance
• Experience in analyzing additive manufactured parts
• Experience with sensor selection and data post-processing/interpretation (accelerometers, strain gauges, etc.)
• Experience in structural analysis of composites (laminate design, joint design, materials characterization, environmental effects)
• Familiarity with nonlinear material simulation, including metal plasticity, elastomers, and adhesive joints
• Experience in spacecraft-level structural test campaign design, execution, data processing, and validation

Additional Requirements:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick…