Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer
Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Structural Engineering Manager, the Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer will support spacecraft structural systems and subsystem design from concept development through design reviews, prototype testing, manufacturing, and verification testing. This role contributes technical expertise, supports testing activities, and collaborates closely with engineers across multiple disciplines.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to identify structural design constraints and recommend mitigation strategies across concept development, prototyping, production, testing, and launch integration
Support planning and coordination of structural analysis tasks for ongoing programs
Perform peer reviews of technical analysis material generated within the team
Assist in creating detailed finite element models of satellite structures and conduct analyses including static, dynamic, buckling, thermal, linear, nonlinear, and transient
Support mechanical test projects, including coordinating with test houses, assisting with logistics, designing and analyzing test fixtures, and documenting decisions and changes
Develop test plans, procedures, and reports for mechanical tests such as vibration, shock, acceleration, life, and endurance testing
Perform structural vibration testing for spacecraft modules, including data acquisition, digital signal processing, and modal analysis
Interpret test data in real time and provide recommendations when necessary
Interface with vendors and test facilities to support testing requirements and logistics
Participate in team discussions involving vehicle arrangement and structural design for current and future projects
Design and analyze test fixtures for mechanical testing
Contribute to the development and improvement of tools and processes to enhance structural analysis efficiency
Work effectively with program engineering leads to help maintain schedules and ensure technical compliance
Support preparation and presentation of Engineering Review Board (ERB) items as needed
Required Qualifications and Skills
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
Minimum of 5 years of direct industry experience performing structural analyses using numerical and analytical techniques in space, aerospace, or similar sectors
Experience with Nastran and Patran
Experience with vibration and shock testing of aerospace or space-grade equipment and familiarity with relevant military or NASA standards
Hands-on experience with test planning and execution
Understanding of launch vehicle loads and their implications for spacecraft systems
Experience creating detailed or simplified structural models for spacecraft systems or components is a plus
Proficiency with SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software
Strong communication and presentation skills for interfacing with customers and vendors
Highly process‑driven with the ability to contribute to improving structural analysis and testing processes
U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance
Additional Differentiators
Master of Science degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with a focus in solid mechanics
Experience with vibration (random, sine, SRS) and static load testing, including data acquisition and processing
Experience in a production environment within the aerospace or space industry
Experience with MSC tools (MSC Apex, Nastran, Patran, Adams, Marc) is a plus
Knowledge of HALT or HASS methodologies
Familiarity with operating a Data Physics LE‑2016 shaker table
Understanding of applicable MIL and NASA test standards
Your actual level and base salary will be determined case-by-case and may vary based on the job-related qualification, knowledge, skills, education, and experience. In addition to base salary, we offer 100% covered medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) match, Flexible Time Off (FTO), covered life insurance, maternity and paternity leave, tuition reimbursement, employee referrals, and lots of swag!
Salary Range
$105,000—$155,000 USD