Sr Analysis Mechanical Engineer (Thermal, Structural)

Aerospace & Defense startup currently in Stealth based in El Segundo, made up of former SpaceX, Anduril, and Lockheed engineers, applying their knowledge to produce life-saving systems. Backed by joint staff level military leadership and several major SV firms. Our first product is designed for immediate deployment around the world.

Responsibilities:

Develop structural analysis tools and guidelines for company-wide use; engage key stakeholders, secure their support, and provide training to engineers as required.

Conduct structural analyses on primary and secondary structures through finite element modeling (FEM) and manual calculations.

Establish load paths and perform preliminary structural sizing with metallic and composite materials.

Collaborate with design teams on rapid conceptual design, modeling, analysis, and test cycles, including CAD development, finite element analysis (FEA), and test oversight.

Produce high-quality documentation to reduce error rates and enhance operational efficiency.

Perform peer reviews of engineering models, analyses, and testing procedures.

Continuously pursue improvements in performance and robustness.

Execute thermal analysis of hardware, encompassing initial high-level analyses through validation using ground tests, flight data, and orbital performance metrics. Qualifications:

Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering or related field with analysis concentration

Minimum 5 years of professional experience in thermal or fluid analysis.

Solid understanding of spacecraft and/or launch vehicle systems.

Proficient with thermal network analysis.

Experienced in using ANSYS Workbench.

Familiar with scripting languages, particularly Python.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Proven ability to meet aggressive timelines.

Master's in engineering, mathematics, or physics.

Prior experience conducting structural analysis on primary structures.

Proficient with finite element analysis (FEA) solvers such as ABAQUS, ANSYS, or Nastran.

Advanced proficiency with pre- and post-processing software including ABAQUS/CAE, ANSA/META, ANSYS, or FEMAP (including scripting capabilities).

Familiarity with nonlinear analyses related to material behavior, geometry, and contact.

Experience conducting stress analyses of welded structures, addressing heat distortion and residual stresses.

Strong knowledge of fatigue and fracture mechanics, with familiarity in fatigue and crack-growth analysis tools such as nCode, NASGRO, or equivalent software.

Competency with scripting using Python, VBA, or Matlab.

Strong communication skills with the capability to clearly and concisely present recommendations.

Self-motivated with the willingness to independently tackle new challenges and effectively manage multiple tasks concurrently ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.