Senior Structural Analyst - Aerospace & Defense

Divergent • Torrance, CA

19h

About The Position

Divergent is seeking an experienced Structural Analysis Engineer to support the development of next-generation aerospace and automotive structures using the Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS). The role applies advanced finite element analysis (FEA) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) methodologies to evaluate, optimize, and validate structural systems, working closely with Design, Manufacturing, Materials, Test, and Product Engineering throughout development.

The position may be hired at Senior Engineer (E05), Lead Engineer (E06), or Principal Engineer (E07), based on experience and demonstrated technical leadership. Higher-level engineers provide greater technical leadership, define engineering methodologies, influence product strategy, mentor engineers, and address the organization’s most challenging structural analysis problems.

The role includes developing, analyzing, validating, and optimizing finite element models for components, assemblies, and complete vehicle or aerospace systems. It also supports structural design from concept through detailed design, prototyping, testing, validation, and production launch. Engineers present technical findings and recommendations to cross-functional teams and, as appropriate, leadership, customers, and external partners.

Work is performed in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards. Compensation depends on level: E05 $134,640–$185,130; E06 $155,540–$213,840; and E07 $179,630–$247,005.

Requirements

• Ability to lawfully access information and technology subject to U.S. export controls.
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• Structural analysis experience in aerospace, automotive, or related industries: 5+ years for E05, 8+ years for E06, or 12+ years for E07.
• Expert experience with Abaqus, LS-Dyna, Nastran, OptiStruct, or equivalent CAE software.
• Experience performing nonlinear structural analysis, including crash, durability, dynamic, thermal, vibration, or multi-physics simulations.
• Strong understanding of solid mechanics and structural behavior of metals, composites, adhesives, and advanced materials.
• Experience validating analytical results using engineering calculations and physical testing.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across engineering disciplines.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with aerospace structural certification and MIL-STDs.
• Experience supporting DoD, FAA, or other regulatory certification activities.
• Experience developing new simulation methodologies or advanced CAE workflows.
• Experience leading structural analysis for complete vehicle or aerospace programs.
• Experience mentoring engineers and providing technical leadership across multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience presenting technical recommendations to executive leadership or external customers.

Responsibilities

• Develop, analyze, validate, and optimize finite element models for structural components, assemblies, and complete vehicle or aerospace systems.
• Perform linear and nonlinear structural analyses, including crash, durability, fatigue, vibration, stiffness, thermal, and multi-physics simulations.
• Validate simulation results using engineering hand calculations, physical testing, and correlation activities.
• Develop engineering recommendations that balance structural performance, manufacturability, cost, weight, production efficiency, and certification requirements.
• Apply advanced material modeling techniques for metals, composites, adhesives, and emerging manufacturing technologies.
• Partner with Design, Manufacturing, Materials, Test, and Product Engineering to develop manufacturable structural solutions.
• Support structural design through concept development, detailed design, prototype builds, testing, validation, and production launch.
• Drive design improvements, cost reduction, manufacturability enhancements, and product optimization.
• Present technical findings and engineering recommendations to cross-functional teams, engineering leadership, customers, and external partners as appropriate.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to less experienced engineers and promote engineering best practices.
• Contribute to CAE methodologies, modeling standards, simulation workflows, and validation processes.
• At E06–E07, lead major technical initiatives, establish structural analysis methodologies, define technical approaches for complex programs, and influence engineering decisions across products or programs.
• At E06, lead structural analysis activities for major vehicle or aerospace programs, define analysis strategies, provide multidisciplinary technical leadership, establish engineering standards, and drive continuous improvement.
• At E07, establish long-term structural analysis strategy and technical direction, develop innovative CAE methodologies and engineering standards, mentor senior engineers, and represent Divergent with customers, partners, and technical stakeholders.

Benefits

• Competitive salary, equity plan, and discretionary results-based incentive bonus opportunities.
• Paid vacation, sick time, and company holidays, including a year-end shutdown.
• Paid parental leave.
• Health and wellness benefits with HMO and Premium PPO options.
• Company-sponsored life insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Reimbursement opportunities for learning and development initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior