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Rocket Lab is seeking a Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I or II to join its Space Systems team in Long Beach, CA. This role contributes to the analysis, design validation, and continuous improvement of Rocket Lab's spacecraft and space components portfolio. You will define loads and environments, perform detailed simulations and physics-based structural analysis, guide design iterations, and validate performance through testing.
Key responsibilities include:
- Define, process, and interpret static and dynamic ground test and flight data (vibration, shock, acoustic, pressure, thermal)
- Perform and validate structural analyses of primary and secondary vehicle structures using finite element modeling
- Execute structural and dynamic simulations (static, modal, random vibration, buckling, thermoelastic)
- Collaborate with design and test engineers to iterate designs, determine test requirements, and demonstrate structural margins
- Define test requirements and support subsystem and component testing
- Lead technical projects across analysis and cross-functional teams
- Implement new theory, tools, and best practices within the structural analysis discipline
For Engineer I level: Bachelor's in mechanical or related engineering discipline, aerospace structural analysis experience, proficiency with NX Nastran, NX CAD, and Teamcenter. U.S. citizenship required; must be eligible for security clearance.
For Engineer II level: Same requirements plus 2+ years of aerospace structural analysis experience.
Desirable qualifications include Master's/PhD, active security clearance, experience with additive manufacturing analysis, sensor selection and data post-processing, composite structural analysis, and nonlinear material simulation.
Rocket Lab builds rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems for missions ranging from interplanetary exploration to national security. The Space Systems team has enabled over 1,700 missions and works with NASA, Space Development Agency, and U.S. Space Force.
