Component Analysis Structural Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

1d•Onsite

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 Structural Engineer (Engineering Specialist/ Senior 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 including electronic assemblies, antennas, composite panels and solar arrays being developed across the aerospace industry and develops technical assessments to help inform government customer decisions. This is a full-time, onsite position in El Segundo, CA, with one remote day per week.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field is required
5 or more years of increasingly responsible professional or industry experience in structural engineering is required
Experience performing finite element analyses
Experience 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
10 or more years of increasingly responsible professional or industry experience in structural engineering

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related technical field
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, 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, 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

Responsibilities

Provide technical leadership as part of mission assurance processes for U.S. Space Force, U.S. Air Force, and NRO missions to assure structural integrity. Typical tasks include independent analyses and assessments, hardware reviews, review and evaluation of stress analysis reports, evaluation of flight data, and investigation of flight and test anomalies
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
Lead technical teams to identify issues, prioritize tasks, and communicate with management and customers
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
Serve as senior mentor for the development of early career staff, providing technical guidance and insight. Conduct peer reviews of technical products and findings.
Maintain authoritative expertise in the development, analysis, and verification of electronic packaging and space structures, thorough knowledge of structural design criteria in combination with structural test methods

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