Spacecraft Structural Analyst

Apex Technology•Los Angeles, CA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Apex is looking for a Spacecraft Structural Analyst to own structural modeling, analysis, and validation of spacecraft hardware from early design through flight readiness. This role sits at the center of hardware development, driving structural performance across components, subsystems, and full vehicles. You’ll work closely with design, dynamics, and test teams to ensure hardware meets launch and on-orbit requirements while enabling rapid iteration.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or related engineering field
5+ years of experience as a structural analyst in spacecraft, aerospace, automotive, or similar industries
Expertise in finite element modeling and analysis (NASTRAN, FEMAP, or similar)
Experience performing trade studies to inform system and component architecture
Experience analyzing force-limited dynamic load cases (random, sine, shock)
Strong fundamentals in structural mechanics, including strength, stability, fatigue, and joint analysis
Experience calculating margins for metallic and composite structures
Proficiency with CAD tools (NX or similar)
Experience defining loads, requirements, and verification approaches across the design lifecycle
Experience leading or supporting vibration testing and structural qualification campaigns
Experience managing external analysts or vendors and planning analysis scope
Strong communication skills with the ability to present technical insights clearly

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or related field
Experience with spacecraft or launch vehicle hardware
Experience with vibro-acoustic analysis or testing
Hands-on vibration testing experience in production or high-rate environments
Experience generating unit-level vibration specifications
Experience correlating FEM models with test or flight data
Experience with composites and advanced structures
Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or VBA for analysis and automation

Responsibilities

Own structural analysis across components, assemblies, and full spacecraft from initial sizing through test and validation
Develop high-fidelity finite element models and perform analyses (FEA and hand calculations) to evaluate strength, stiffness, stability, and fatigue
Define structural load cases and environments, including force-limited dynamic loads (random, sine, shock, acoustics)
Generate margins for metallic and composite structures, including joints and interfaces (bolted, bonded, etc.)
Drive design decisions and architecture through trade studies and analysis insights
Define and lead structural test campaigns, including vibration and environmental qualification
Correlate FEM models with test and flight data to improve prediction accuracy
Generate structural requirements, specifications, and ICDs for components and full spacecraft
Develop and standardize analysis methods, tools, and workflows used across the company
Partner cross-functionally with design, dynamics, manufacturing, and test to close the loop between analysis and hardware
Manage external vendors and third-party analysts to scale analysis efforts and ensure quality
Support the development of scalable test approaches and infrastructure aligned with high-rate production
Contribute to team growth through mentorship, recruiting, and technical leadership

Benefits

Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social gatherings for you and your family
Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
World-class Playa Vista office with EV chargers, with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference