Sr Structural Analysis Engineer

Sierra Space•Durham, NC

1d•$137,386 - $188,927

About The Position

As a Senior Structural Analysis Engineer at Sierra Space, you will use extensive expertise to address complex technical problems and contribute to the success of major programs. You will operate with considerable latitude, independently determining technical objectives and developing innovative solutions. The role includes project leadership, collaboration with senior personnel across organizations, and serving as Sierra Space’s prime technical contact on significant contracts and projects. You will conduct advanced structural design and analysis using hand calculations and finite element methods, apply related-discipline knowledge to complex engineering challenges, and guide major programs toward successful completion. You will also represent Sierra Space on contracts and projects, maintaining technical integrity and alignment with organizational goals while building relationships with external stakeholders. Sierra Space describes itself as a mission-driven space and defense technology company focused on safeguarding the nation, sustaining human presence in space, and securing freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond. The position requires an applicant who meets U.S. Government international trade regulations: a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or someone eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field, or equivalent work experience in lieu of a degree; alternatively, a master’s degree plus 6 years of experience.
Typically 8 or more years of related experience.
Demonstrated expertise in structural analysis.
Extensive technical expertise and working knowledge of related disciplines.
Ability to work without appreciable direction and with considerable latitude in determining technical objectives.
Ability to solve complex technical problems requiring regular use of ingenuity and creativity.
Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required U.S. Department of State or Department of Commerce authorizations.

Nice To Haves

Advanced proficiency with structural analysis and design software such as Nastran, Femap, or Ansys.
Strong familiarity with industry standards and best practices such as ASME, ASTM, and AISC.
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, with an inclination for automation and optimization.
Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or C++ for custom analysis methods.
Detailed knowledge of linear and non-linear material properties and behavior in aerospace applications, including metallics, composites, and bonded joints.
Experience with finite element methods and analysis software, preferably ANSYS or Simcenter Nastran.
Experience with dynamic analysis, including random response, frequency response, or transient analysis solutions.
Experience supporting testing and correlating models with test data.

Responsibilities

Conduct advanced design and analysis of structural systems using hand calculations and finite element methods.
Apply extensive technical expertise and working knowledge of related disciplines to address complex engineering challenges.
Develop creative solutions to complex technical problems and determine technical objectives and approaches with considerable latitude and without appreciable direction.
Guide the successful completion of major programs and provide project leadership, ensuring technical excellence and organizational alignment.
Interact with senior personnel across the organization on significant technical matters and help drive collaboration and decision-making.
Represent Sierra Space as the prime technical contact on contracts and projects, ensuring technical integrity and alignment with organizational goals while fostering relationships with external stakeholders.