Senior/Principal Structural Analyst

Zeno Power•Seattle, WA

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

Zeno Power is seeking a highly motivated Senior/Principal Structural Analyst to support the development and commercialization of Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS). Reporting to the Analysis Manager, this role performs structural analyses of RPS structures, subsystems, and components throughout program phases, from early concepts and prototypes through qualification and flight hardware. The analyst evaluates mechanical performance against structural limits, regulatory requirements, and applicable design and pressure-vessel codes, applying NASA structural design and verification standards to support flight-class structural integrity, safety factors, and documented analysis practices. The role assesses component margins and performance in mechanical, thermal, and acoustic environments using static, modal, vibration, and explicit dynamic analyses. It produces traceable analysis reports, develops test requirements and plans, correlates test data with analytical models, and updates predictions as needed. The analyst also mentors internal analysts, reviews vendor and partner deliverables, and advises mechanical design teams on component sizing, subsystem configuration, and material selection. Close collaboration with systems, materials, and test engineers supports robust, manufacturable, and testable hardware. The position requires in-office presence in Seattle’s South Lake Union on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; remote work is optional Mondays and Fridays. Travel is required at less than 10%. Applicants must be U.S. persons as defined in the posting. The anticipated salary range is $145,000–$185,000, with final level and compensation determined by relevant qualifications and business considerations.

Requirements

B.S. or higher in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering from an accredited university.
At least 7 years of structural analysis experience, including steady-state, random vibration, and thermal environments for aerospace or nuclear systems.
Demonstrated proficiency and deep understanding of finite element analysis tools.
Strong background in dynamic structural analysis, including random vibration, sine sweep, shock, and transient response.
Familiarity with fracture mechanics, fatigue-life estimation, and damage-tolerance principles.
Experience generating stress reports and component-margin justifications consistent with NASA or aerospace prime contractor standards.
Working knowledge of 3D CAD tools and GD&T (ASME Y14.5) for model-based definition and analysis.
Experience working under structured quality systems such as NQA-1, AS9100, ISO 9001, or similar.
Excellent technical writing skills and ability to present results clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
Ability to lead analysis efforts with minimal supervision and work in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
Strong collaboration and communication skills, with ability to work independently or as part of a cross-functional team.
Must be a U.S. person as defined in the posting.
Ability to safely lift up to 15 pounds; the role also involves prolonged work, sitting or standing for extended periods, bending or stooping, grasping or gripping, and fine motor control.

Nice To Haves

M.S. degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
ANSYS Mechanical experience; Abaqus, Nastran, or LS-DYNA experience is also noted as a plus.
Experience with impact, re-entry, or launch-environment analyses.
Working knowledge of NASA-STD-5001B, NASA-STD-5012, NASA-HDBK-7005, and NASA-STD-7009 verification processes.

Responsibilities

Perform detailed mechanical and structural analyses of RPS structures, subsystems, and components across program phases, from concept and prototype through qualification and flight hardware.
Evaluate mechanical performance against structural limits, regulatory requirements, and applicable design and pressure-vessel codes.
Apply NASA structural design and verification standards to support flight-class structural integrity, safety factors, and analysis documentation practices.
Assess component margins and performance in mechanical, thermal, and acoustic environments using static, modal, vibration, and explicit dynamic analyses.
Document findings in clear, traceable analysis reports that conform to Zeno Power technical writing standards.
Develop test requirements and plans to validate analytical results; correlate test data with analytical models and update predictions as needed.
Provide oversight and mentorship to internal analysts.
Review vendor and partner analysis deliverables for technical accuracy, compliance, and quality consistency.
Advise mechanical design teams on component sizing, subsystem configuration, and material selection.
Collaborate with systems, materials, and test engineers to support robust, manufacturable, and testable hardware designs.
Travel as required; travel is less than 10%.