Senior Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I - TS/SCI Clearance

Senior Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I - TS/SCI ClearanceBased out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I contributes to the analysis, design validation, and future improvements of our suite of Space Systems and Space Components. You will be expected to define loads and environments, perform detailed simulations and physics-based analysis, guide design, and help validate analysis, design, and system performance through test. You will support the Vehicle Design Director and Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.What You'll Get To Do:Define, process, and interpret static and dynamic ground test & flight data, including: sensor selection, data acquisition and validation, and environmental determination (random vibration, shock, quasi-static, acoustic, pressure, and thermal)Perform, validate, and document structural analyses of primary and secondary vehicle structures, including: finite element model verification and validation, material selection, performance of trade-off studies, and mass optimizationPerform structural and dynamic simulations, including: static, modal, random vibration, buckling, and thermoelasticWork closely with design and test engineers to iterate through design concepts, determine test requirements, and demonstrate positive structural marginsDefine test requirements and directly support testing of vehicle subsystems and componentsLead technical projects and programs, as required, both within analysis and across disciplines and teamsHelp implement new theory and tools within the team and establish best practices in areas of technical expertiseQualifications You'll Bring:Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, or other engineering disciplineActive TS/SCI clearanceU.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements5+ years of engineering experience in the aerospace industryExperience using NX Nastran, NX CAD, and Teamcenter packagesExperience in spacecraft-level structural test campaign design, execution, data processing, and validationThese Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:Master's or PhD in mechanical engineering, or other engineering disciplineExperience in full satellite system development cycles, from concept to launchExperience in analyzing additive manufactured partsExperience with sensor selection and data post-processing/interpretation (accelerometers, strain gauges, thermocouples, etc.)Experience in structural analysis of composites (laminate design, joint design, materials characterization, environmental effects)Familiarity with nonlinear material simulation, including metal plasticity, elastomers, and adhesive jointsAdditional Requirements:Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard and office equipment for extended periodsUse hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools and technical equipment, as neededRead technical documents, drawings, and computer screens requiring close and distance visionMove between buildings, labs, and work areas, as neededWork in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust and fumes in production areasLevel and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.Base Pay Range (CA Only)$115,000 - $158,000 USDWhat To ExpectWe're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.