Component Analysis and Space Structural Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

5d•$100,300 - $175,900•Hybrid

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future space systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly-trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments. The Component Analysis and Space Structures (CASS) section is within the Structures Department of VSD. Our growing team is seeking a well-qualified Component Analysis and Space Structural Engineer (Sr. Member of Technical Staff/Engineering Specialist - Aeronautical and Aerospace Structural Engineering) with a strong foundation in solid mechanics, practical experience in structural analysis using both hand calculations and finite element analysis techniques, a passion for the space industry, and a desire to apply their expertise and creativity to help solve a variety of technical challenges. The CASS section has insight into the structural integrity of space vehicle hardware of all sizes being developed across the aerospace industry and develops technical assessments to help inform customer decisions. Hardware includes composite and metallic bus panels and joints, solar arrays, antennas of all types, electronic assemblies and electronic components. This position requires at least 4 days onsite and is based in El Segundo, CA., with consideration in Chantilly, VA, and Colorado Springs, CO.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field is required
5 or more years of professional or academic experience in structural engineering
Experience performing finite element analyses
Experience or coursework in structural mechanics such as elasticity, plasticity, nonlinear materials, plates and shells, energy methods, finite element methods, fracture, and fatigue
Experience with the design, qualification, and testing of aerospace structural components and systems
Willing to travel occasionally to work locations or customer sites (approximately 20%), domestically or internationally
Current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government.
U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
8 years or more years of experience or more in structural engineering
Strong attention to detail and time management skills
Strong communication skills and the ability to explain complicated subjects in a simple and cogent manner to decision makers

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field
Proficiency with the design, qualification, testing, and nonconformance assessment of spacecraft structural systems, such as electronic assemblies, electronic components, antennas, composite panels, sandwich panels and solar arrays
Technical proficiency in several of the following areas: microelectronics durability, thermostructural analysis methodologies, fracture mechanics and fatigue analysis (both due to thermal and vibration loads), nondestructive inspection criteria, coupled loads analysis, probabilistic analysis and uncertainty quantification, and non-linear finite element analysis
Demonstrated ability to represent the physics of structures during the analysis idealization stage, and to translate results into a conclusive assessment
Demonstrated ability to coordinate technical assignments and lead project teams
Proven capabilities in mentoring less experienced staff in multiple areas of structural engineering, providing orientation, technical guidance, and development insight
Demonstrated ability to work independently with both internal and external customers providing technical support, acting as a technical authority, consultant, and/or primary investigator
Proficient with NASTRAN, Abaqus, ANSYS or other commercial finite element tools, and direct experience correlating finite element model predictions with test results
Understanding of flight qualification strategies from a structural perspective
Ability to exhibit high level of innovation, creativity, and initiative
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers

Responsibilities

Identify, evaluate, and resolve structural design and test issues for electronics components and spacecraft structures, and coordinate detailed structural analyses to identify failure mechanisms and modes
Develop design and analysis criteria, requirements, and specifications and assess structural/mechanical designs and development plans during multiple design phases
Develop and coordinate test plans, procedures, and success criteria for structural test programs
Monitor and assist in the development of budgets and resource allocations. Determine scope of work and coordinate with relevant disciplines
Proactively inform management and customers of perceived technical problems and recommend courses of action.
Coordinate with inter-organizational personnel, program offices, and customers to resolve technical issues
Maintain and advance skills in structural mechanics analysis, such as composite materials and linear and non-linear finite element analysis methods
Provide timely technical recommendation to line management and customers through technical briefings and reports

Benefits

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect