Principal Structural Analyst I

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and oversee the structural analysis of satellite components, subsystems, and assemblies, including primary and secondary structures, mechanisms, and deployable systems.
• Develop and implement advanced finite element models (FEM) to simulate and predict the structural behavior of satellite structures under various loading conditions, including launch, in-orbit, and thermal environments.
• Demonstrate and communicate the validity and applicability of models.
• Develop and deliver reduced order Hurty/Craig-Bampton models for launch vehicle coupled loads analysis.
• Perform linear and nonlinear static, dynamic, vibroacoustic, and thermo-mechanical analyses to assess the strength, stiffness, survivability, and stability of satellite structures, identifying potential failure modes and structural margins.
• Collaborate with design engineers to optimize structural designs, materials, and configurations to meet performance, weight, and cost targets while ensuring structural safety and reliability.
• Conduct trade studies and sensitivity analyses to evaluate design alternatives, assess design margins, and mitigate structural risks and uncertainties.
• Generate comprehensive analysis reports, technical memos, and presentations to communicate analysis results, conclusions, and recommendations to project stakeholders, including management, customers, and regulatory authorities.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior mechanical engineers and analysts, fostering their professional growth and development in structural analysis techniques, methodologies, and best practices.
• Support the development and validation of structural models, simulations, and test plans for ground and flight testing of satellite structures, collaborating with test engineers and technicians.
• Investigate and resolve structural anomalies, discrepancies, and non-conformances encountered during design, manufacturing, testing, or operations, implementing corrective actions and lessons learned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited university or institution.
• Minimum of 9 years of experience in structural analysis.
• Extensive experience in mechanical analysis in harsh environmental conditions
• Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) software, Ansys or NASTRAN preferred
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, dynamics, and materials science principles relevant to space applications.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and analytical abilities, with the capability to identify, assess, and resolve complex structural challenges and performance issues.
• Ability to bound difficult problems through first principles and hand calculations
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including engineers, managers, and customers.
• Detail-oriented mindset with a commitment to quality, accuracy, and compliance in all aspects of structural analysis and evaluation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Familiarity with scripting languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for automation of analysis tasks and post-processing of simulation results.
• Knowledge of optimization methods and tools for structural design and performance enhancement.
• Experience with structural qualification and certification of aerospace hardware for space missions.
• Extensive experience with ANSYS mechanical analysis.
• Satellite structural design and analysis experience including solar arrays and honeycomb composites.