Structural Analyst​/Senior Crash & Safety Engineer; Defense

Location: Chandler, AZ area (Local candidates preferred for mid-level; Relocation assistance available for Senior Crash/Seating specialists)

Status: U.S. Citizenship Required (Defense program requirements; Dual Citizenship cannot be considered)

Salary Range: $90,000 – $165,000+ / year (DOE; highly competitive/negotiable for senior-level impact)

U.S. Citizenship & Security Requirements: Due to the nature of our work with the Department of Defense (DoD), this position strictly requires U.S. Citizenship. Please note that candidates holding dual citizenship cannot be considered for this role per strict DoD security regulations.

On behalf of our client, a leading developer in the defense sector, we are seeking a Structural Analyst to join their engineering team in a direct-hire capacity.

We are executing a dual-track search for this critical role.

For the Mid-Level Track
, we are seeking a local candidate with 2 or more years of static/dynamic FEA experience.

For the Senior Specialist Track
, we are seeking a Senior Analyst with extensive expertise in crash worthiness, occupant safety, and dynamic impact analysis
. For candidates with deep experience in military ground vehicles, armor, or tactical seating systems,
our client provides full relocation assistance.

Perform high-level static, dynamic, and non-linear transient (crash/impact) FEA on complex mechanical components and systems.

Lead or support analysis related to blast mitigation, occupant seating systems, structural integrity, and ground vehicle dynamics.

Utilize advanced solvers—specifically LS-DYNA, Abaqus, or Optistruct—to validate designs against rigorous DoD standards and military specifications.

Compile clear technical reports and provide design recommendations. Senior candidates will also provide technical mentorship to the broader engineering team.

Candidates must possess a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field.

A minimum of 2 or more years of professional experience specializing in static and dynamic stress analysis is required, while 10 or more years of experience is expected for the Senior track.

Applicants must have a solid foundational understanding of FEA theory. For the senior track, proven expertise in non-linear dynamic impact analysis (crash/blast) is required.

Experience working with DoD platforms, such as ground combat vehicles, tactical marine, or military aircraft, is highly preferred.

U.S. Citizenship is strictly required. Per Department of Defense regulations, candidates holding dual citizenship are completely ineligible for this position.

• Advanced proficiency in LS-DYNA for explicit dynamic simulations involving crash, drop testing, and blast scenarios.
• Direct experience analyzing vehicle seating structures, energy-attenuating mechanisms, or armor integration.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD modeling, specifically Solid Works.