Structures Analyst - Spacecraft
San Francisco, CA
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Opportunity Summary

Join a cutting-edge aerospace company that is revolutionizing satellite design and performance. Our breakthrough approach to spacecraft engineering enables lighter, more efficient, and highly precise satellite systems, bringing performance levels previously reserved for deep-space telescopes into Earth orbit. By leveraging advanced pointing control technology, we are unlocking next-generation imaging capabilities, higher data rates for space-based communications, and increased launch efficiency—critical innovations for the rapidly evolving space industry.

As a Structural Analyst, you will work on vehicle-level structural analysis for an upcoming spaceflight mission launching aboard a Falcon 9 transporter flight. You will be deeply involved in dynamic, thermal, and mechanical stress modeling, contributing to the structural integrity of advanced aerospace platforms. This role offers a rare opportunity to contribute to a mission launching within the year, with hands-on exposure to satellite mechanisms, hinges, and in-space motion systems. If you thrive in a fast-paced, high-impact environment and are excited about the future of satellite technology, this is the perfect opportunity for you.


About Us

We are pushing the boundaries of satellite technology, precision pointing, and space-based communications, engineering a new class of space systems that are thinner, lighter, and faster to produce than traditional alternatives. Our approach to structural optimization and dynamic control is enabling entirely new capabilities for Earth observation, space-based Internet, and next-generation launch efficiency. With strong investor backing and an upcoming orbital mission on a Falcon 9, we are poised to make a significant impact on the future of space technology.


Job Duties

  • Conduct vehicle-level structural analysis to validate aerospace system performance in launch and in-orbit environments.
  • Develop and refine finite element models (FEM) for stiffness, strength, and thermal response using industry-standard tools.
  • Perform dynamic environment analysis, including vibration, shock, and load response for spaceflight hardware.
  • Lead structural validation efforts, correlating models with physical test data from flight hardware.
  • Optimize mechanisms, hinges, and deployable structures for satellite movement in orbit.
  • Support full-scale testing, including vibration, shock, and thermal cycling for mission hardware.
  • Work closely with design engineers to ensure manufacturability and structural efficiency.
  • Participate in mission planning for upcoming hosted payload opportunities and future launch integrations.
  • Utilize Siemens NX and Simcenter for dynamic environment analysis (DEA) in structural simulations.
  • Train new team members on our vehicle-level analysis and validation processes.


Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in structural analysis, mechanical design, or aerospace engineering.
  • Strong proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) using industry tools such as Simcenter, NASTRAN, Hypermesh, or Femap.
  • Experience with dynamic structural modeling, including vibration, shock, and launch-load analysis.
  • Familiarity with mechanisms, hinges, and satellite deployment systems in space environments.
  • Hands-on experience with structural validation, including testing and failure analysis.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced startup environment with evolving priorities.
  • Excellent communication skills for presenting technical findings in design reviews.

Preferred Experience

  • Master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience with orbital structural analysis, spacecraft pointing mechanisms, and deployable structures.
  • Background in bonded joint analysis, fastener analysis, and satellite bus design.
  • Hands-on work with vibration and shock testing, material stress validation, and aerospace-grade composites.
  • Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or VBA for automating analysis workflows.
  • Familiarity with additive manufacturing, precision machining, and space-rated fabrication techniques.

Security Clearance

  • Must be able to obtain US Secret clearance.


Why Join Us?

  • Work on a first-of-its-kind space mission.
  • Be part of an elite team engineering next-generation satellite technology.
  • Fast-paced, high-growth startup with career advancement opportunities.
  • Hands-on experience with space hardware testing, validation, and flight integration.
  • Competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision.
  • Equity opportunities for employees contributing to long-term company success.
  • Flexible work environment.
  • A culture that values innovation, problem-solving, and continuous learning.


Compensation Details

$120,000 - $150,000 + equity


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