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Structural Engineer Spacecraft
Houston, TXMarch 27th, 2026
Structural/Stress EngineerHouston, Denver, or TucsonUS CitizenDescription of DutiesIndependently and collaboratively perform static structural, fatigue, and fracture analyses of aerospace components, assemblies, and systemsDevelop static, dynamic, and fatigue test plans and procedures, including special test equipment and sensor placementConduct data analysis and correlate analytical models with test resultsPartner with design engineers to drive weightoptimized, structurally sound component designsProduce formal engineering documentation, including technical memoranda, analysis reports, design and development books, and product manualsOperate effectively in a fastpaced, interdisciplinary environment with evolving requirementsKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesAbility to derive vehicle load paths and reaction loads using freebody diagramsFamiliarity with classical aerospace sizing methods (e.g., Bruhn, Niu, Roark)Strong foundation in firstprinciples methods for performing firstorder static structural hand calculationsDemonstrated proficiency with one or more analysis tools: NX FEMAP, PATRAN, Nastran, ANSYS, ABAQUSExpertise in FEM modeling techniques, including boundary conditions, midsurfacing, element selection, structural idealization, bolted connections, contact modeling, and verification methodsProficiency in structural analysis of aerospace systems and components, including:Linear and nonlinear static analysisStability analysisSine and random vibration analysisShock and impact analysisAbility to analyze structural stability (local buckling, global buckling, crippling) using classical methods and FEMExperience performing boltedjoint calculations (bolt preload, joint stiffness, sheartension interaction, insert pullout, etc.) in accordance with NASASTD5020Support for internal/external design reviews, TIMs, and PDR/CDR milestonesExperience with the design and development of spacecraft, spacesuits, aircraft, military systems, or other relevant vehicles and subsystemsUnderstanding of the full engineering product lifecycle-from requirements development through design, manufacturing, testing, and operationsProficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio, Project)Strong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to build and maintain positive working relationships; demonstrate creativity, flexibility, resourcefulness, sound judgment, tact, and a sense of humorAbility to review and guide junior engineers' designs and analyses, providing mentorship and technical leadershipDesired ExperienceBackground in one or more of the following disciplines:Life Support System DesignCrew Systems DesignCrew Cabin DesignMechanical DesignMechanical AnalysisStrong understanding of fatigue and fracture mechanics, including experience with AFGRO/NASGRO, spectra development, NDE methods, failsafe vs. safelife approaches, and NASASTD5019Experience modeling and simulating electronics components and associated failure modesExpertise in welded joint analysisExperience with mechanical mechanisms such as bearings, valves, motors, rotating joints, and gearsAbility to manipulate SolidWorks CAD models directly for analysis and team collaborationMinimum QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field and 1-2 years of relevant industry experienceMaster's degree in the same fields and 0-1 years of relevant experiencePhD in Mechanical, Biomechanical, or Aerospace EngineeringU.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident