Principal Structural Dynamics Engineer

True Anomaly•Denver, CO

23h•$205,000 - $285,000•Hybrid

About The Position

A new space race has begun. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build innovative technology that solves the next generation of engineering, manufacturing, and operational challenges for space security and sustainability. OUR MISSION The peaceful use of space is essential for continued prosperity on Earth—from communications and finance to navigation and logistics. True Anomaly builds innovative technology at the intersection of spacecraft, software, and AI to enhance the capabilities of the U.S., its allies, and commercial partners. We safeguard global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all. OUR VALUES Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together YOUR MISSION

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
12+ years of experience in structural dynamics analysis for aerospace, defense, or high-reliability applications.
Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as FEMAP/NASTRAN or HyperWorks/OptiStruct.
Experience in spacecraft and/or missile defense dynamic environments, including launch loads, aero loads, vibration, and shock.
Strong understanding of structural mechanics, fracture mechanics, material properties, and failure modes in aerospace applications.
Hands-on experience with environmental testing, including random, sine, and sine burst vibration
Ability to maintain or obtain TS/SCI clearance.
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
15+ years of experience in structural dynamics analysis for aerospace, defense, or high-reliability applications.
Thermal and fluid systems analysis experience
Mastery of spacecraft-specific structural dynamics challenges, such as coupled loads analysis and dynamic coupling between subsystems.
Mastery of missile defense - specific structural dynamics challenges, such as aerothermal loading.
Experience working with lightweight structures, composites, and advanced materials.
Proficiency in CAD tools, such as SolidWorks and NX for integrating FEMs with detailed vehicle assembly models – Teamcenter for PLM
Hands-on experience with instrumentation for dynamic testing, including accelerometers, strain gauges, and data acquisition systems.
Hands-on experience with environmental testing including shock and acoustic tests.
Demonstrated experience with full program life cycle (capture to launch)

Responsibilities

Lead the analysis and validation of spacecraft and/or missile defense systems to ensure survivability and performance under dynamic environments, including launch, on-orbit, and mission operations.
Perform detailed structural dynamics analyses, including modal, harmonic, random vibration, shock, and transient response simulations.
Develop documentation and best practices across engineering team including modeling tools, process documentation, and analysis templates.
Develop and validate finite element models (FEMs) of spacecraft and/or missile structures and subsystems, ensuring accuracy in predicting dynamic behavior.
Define and lead dynamic testing campaigns, including vibration, shock, and acoustic testing, to verify structural integrity and correlate models with test results.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, thermal, and systems engineering, to ensure dynamic requirements are integrated into the design process.
Provide expertise in structural dynamics during trade studies, design reviews, and critical decision-making processes.