Spacecraft Structures Engineer

Overview Energy • Ashburn, VA

2d

About The Position

Overview Energy's Structures Engineer leads the design, structural analysis, testing, and manufacturing of spacecraft structural systems from concept through integration and flight. The role blends hands-on engineering with technical leadership, driving the creation and implementation of structural assemblies, components, and integrated systems. The ideal candidate brings proven expertise in spacecraft structures including both analytical and hands-on capabilities, and thrives in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Structural Engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience in a mechanical/aerospace engineering role
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, analysis, and testing
• Strong proficiency with 3D CAD software (NX preferred) and advanced FEA tools (NX Nastran or equivalent)
• Experience in spacecraft-level structural test campaign design, execution, data processing, and validation
• Solid understanding of GD&T, design-for-manufacturing (DFM) principles, and mechanical design best practices
• Strong understanding of dynamic mechanical system design, analysis, and failure modes (modal, random vibration, buckling, thermoelastic analysis)
• Demonstrated experience with structural analysis of both metallic and composite structures (laminate design, joint design, materials characterization)
• Experience with rapid prototyping and hands-on mechanical assembly
• Proven ability to own and deliver complex structural systems from concept through final implementation
• U.S. citizenship required

Nice To Haves

• Experience with satellite or spacecraft primary and secondary structures in flight programs
• Familiarity with composite manufacturing processes and design-to-cost approaches for space hardware
• Experience with thermal-structural analysis and distortion modeling

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end development, analysis, prototyping, and integration of structural systems and spacecraft components for advanced space systems, collaborating closely within a cross-functional engineering team
• Perform comprehensive structural analysis of spacecraft and platform components, including composites and metallic structures, using advanced analytical methods and industry-standard software (NX Nastran, FEA tools)
• Develop, refine, and validate finite element models to assess structural performance under static, dynamic, thermal, and acoustic loads; perform trade studies and mass optimization analyses
• Develop allowables and assess structural margins for bolted and bonded joints
• Design and model parts, assemblies, and components in CAD software (NX), ensuring manufacturability, ease of assembly, and complete product definition including drawings, GD&T specifications, and test procedures
• Apply design-for-manufacturing (DFM) principles and rapid prototyping techniques to optimize spacecraft structural designs for simplicity, reduced cost, and efficient production
• Lead and support structural test campaigns including design, execution, data processing, and validation, documenting results and lessons learned

Benefits

• In addition to competitive salary and equity, we offer medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage, a health and wellness stipend, 6 weeks of paid time off, parental leave, and employer 401K matching.

What This Job Offers

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