Senior Structural Analyst I/II

Rocket Lab Corporation•Chantilly, VA

19h•$132,200 - $220,000•Onsite

About The Position

Rocket Lab’s Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) customers. Our vision is to revolutionize the space-based payload market with innovative and novel designs for space, terrestrial, and airborne environments. Building on more than 20 years of electro-optical and infrared systems innovation from Geost, Optical Systems delivers solutions to the warfighter for responsive, scalable sensing solutions across all orbital domains. As a Senior Structural Analyst I/II based at our Optical Systems site in Chantilly, VA, you will have the opportunity to support multiple advanced space payload and IRAD programs. In this role you will contribute to technical programs across all phases, and be an integral part of the design, development, build, and test of flight hardware. To be successful in this role, you must bring curiosity, adaptability, a passion for teamwork, and keen attention to detail. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space! (Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Structural Analyst I or Senior Structural Analyst II level)

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline
5+ year of experience in mechanical structural analysis (for I level)
8+ years of experience in mechanical structural analysis (for II level)
Superior computer skills and experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Femap/NASTRAN, etc.)
Ability to write clear and comprehensive technical documentation
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance

Nice To Haves

Experience with mechanism design
Experience with materials engineering and processes
Experience with environmental testing
Experience with SolidWorks or NX
Experience in implementation and understanding of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing
Experience as an REA (Responsible Engineering Authority) or familiarity with documentation process controls
Experience with mechanical design associated with optical and electro-optical systems
Hands-on expertise with optical systems, telescope systems, laser systems, and/or space systems
Experience designing optical mounts for use in various demanding applications and environments
Team player who incorporates a team-based success philosophy and seeks mentorship

Responsibilities

Perform structural analysis of spacecraft components and assemblies using analytical methods and finite element analysis (FEA) tools
Develop and validate analytical models to predict structural behavior under integration, test, launch, operational conditions
Evaluate static, dynamic, thermal, and fatigue loads to ensure compliance with design requirements and safety margins
Collaborate with design engineers to optimize structures for weight, manufacturability, and performance
Support the development of test plans and interpret structural test data to correlate and validate analysis models
Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations to communicate analysis results and recommendations
Participate in design reviews and provide structural engineering input throughout the product development lifecycle
Stay current with industry standards, materials, and analysis techniques
Contribute to continuous improvement of analysis processes, tools, and best practices.
Use investigative and trouble-shooting skills to assess issues and develop resolutions in the lab
Work proactively to complete tasks with some modest direction
Communicate effectively with direct supervisor, project management, customers, and team members across disciplines
Significantly contribute to program and customer meetings and reviews
Support travel as required, including working off-site