Dynamics Engineer

X-Bow Systems•, TX

2d•Remote

About The Position

We're looking for a Dynamics Engineer to support structural dynamics and loads methodology across our launch vehicle and/or missile defense systems. You'll build and correlate low-fidelity analytical models, define and execute dynamic test campaigns, and translate results into engineering decisions that shape hardware from early concept through flight. You'll work closely with structures, design, and test teams to make sure our vehicles, motor, and components survive the ground transportation, launch/ascent, and any applicable environments related to acceleration, vibration, shock, and vibroacoustics. This role suits someone who moves fluidly between simulation and hands-on hardware testing, enjoys developing their own analysis tooling, and wants direct influence over vehicle architecture rather than working in a narrow analytical silo.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
5+ years of relevant experience in structural dynamics, loads, or vibration analysis
Experience performing modal, random vibration, shock, transient, frequency-response, and vibroacoustic analysis in NASTRAN.
Experience planning and executing dynamic testing (modal surveys, vibration, shock) from pre-test analysis through sensor installation, execution, and correlation
Experience with channel setup, sample rate selection, anti-aliasing/filtering, and sensor installation/setup for modal/ground/flight testing and transportation/shipping
Proficiency in MATLAB and experience with object-oriented programming for engineering analysis, automation, and data processing
Experience in generating Maximum Predicted Environments and Qualification levels from raw test and flight data for random vibration, sinusoidal vibration, shock, and acoustic environments.
Demonstrated technical leadership across a full product development lifecycle, including missile, launch vehicle, or spacecraft programs.
Strong grounding in structural mechanics, dynamics, and aerospace loads/environments.
Comfort working in a fast-paced, rapid-hardware-iteration environment.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
Experience configuring data acquisition systems (i.e. DEWEsoft Sirius, NI PXI, enDAQ, or equivalent)
Experience with FEA tools such as FEMAP, HyperMesh, or equivalent. Familiarity with NASTRAN DMAP.
Vibroacoustics experience in Wave6 (experience with VAone is acceptable).
Experience correlating analytical models against ground test and flight data.
Experience generating and working with Craig-Bampton reduced-order models and coupled loads analysis.
Experience using Large Language Model harnesses, such as Codex or Claude Code, to automate processes.
Experience with multi-body dynamic analysis, mathematical modeling, and control algorithms.
Experience developing custom in-house analysis tools, scripts, or APIs.
Familiarity with MIL-STD and/or NASA dynamic test qualification standards.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including coordinating small-to-medium technical teams.
Active security clearance (Secret, Top Secret, or TS/SCI) a plus.

Responsibilities

Develop and continuously improve structural dynamics and loads analysis methodology
Build finite element models and perform coupled loads analysis; generate and work with Craig-Bampton reduced-order models
Perform modal, random vibration, shock, transient, frequency-response, and vibroacoustic analyses
Conduct spacecraft/stage separation analysis as needed
Define dynamic test strategy across component, subsystem, and full-vehicle qualification, including modal surveys and vibration testing
Own dynamic testing end to end: pre-test analysis, sensor selection and installation, test execution, and post-test correlation
Correlate analytical models against ground test and flight data, and drive continuous improvement in model fidelity
Communicate loads and environments to structural and design counterparts, and weigh in on the design implications
Support configuration trade studies and the development and verification of loads and environments (vibration/shock) requirements
Develop and maintain in-house analysis tools, scripts, and APIs (e.g., Python, MATLAB) to improve engineering throughput
Produce and maintain loads data book deliverables
Manage and post-process large test and simulation datasets, leveraging high-performance computing where useful
Support qualification, acceptance, environmental, and flight test campaigns
Partner across a broad set of disciplines to keep hardware performance and schedule on track in a fast-moving development environment