Loads and Dynamics Engineer (NASA LTVS Contingent)

Loads and Dynamics Engineer (NASA LTVS Contingent)

Department: Vehicle Engineering

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Hawthorne, California

Reporting To: Craig Western

Compensation: $120,000 - $197,000 / year

Description

Venturi Astrolab, Inc. (Astrolab) is pioneering new ways to explore and operate on distant planetary bodies. We are singularly focused on designing, building, and operating a fleet of multi-purpose commercial planetary rovers to extend and enhance humanity's presence in the solar system. We are seeking motivated, creative, and exceptional people to join our world-class team.

As a Loads and Dynamics Engineer, you will work with our engineering teams to design, develop, test, and operate planetary rovers and related hardware. You will be responsible for defining and managing mechanical load definitions related to launch, landing, and operations, as well as conducting load analyses and tests throughout the lifecycle of hardware development.

*Employment in this role is contingent on Astrolab being selected as a winner of NASA's LTVS program, scheduled for announcement on November 15, 2025.

What you'll do:

Defining and managing mechanical loads (static, vibration, shock, and acoustics) for design using techniques such as:

Mass acceleration curve analysis or other preliminary design methods

Finite element modeling and system loads model assembly

Design loads analysis methods such as response-limited sine vibration or Modal Mass Acceleration Curve

Model reduction and delivery for coupled loads analyses Supporting dynamics test setup and analysis for hardware development and verification, along with ownership of test campaigns for dynamics model correlation. Notable test types are:

Modal survey

Sine & random vibration

Acoustic

Shock What's Prepared You:

Basic qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering

• 5+ years of experience in spacecraft dynamics modeling and testing

• Proficiency with Simcenter Femap and NASTRAN software for dynamics simulation

• Proficiency with MATLAB for data analysis

• Ability to mentor and develop more junior engineers, contractors, and interns to build an effective design team

Beneficial skills and experience:

• Master's degree in engineering

• Capability to utilize a combination of analytical calculations, numerical simulation, testing, and engineering judgment to solve dynamics problems

• Ownership of task execution

• Aptitude for managing priorities and operating in a fast-paced environment

• Ability to work in a collaborative team environment with engineers, technicians, and leadership

What We Offer:

Work with a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration

Ownership in the company

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) with matching

Flexible time off and parental leave

On-site snacks, beverages, and 2x weekly lunches

Flexible work environment