Structural Analysis Engineer Ii/senior

Structural Analysis Engineer II/Senior

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Structural Analysis Engineer II/Senior

As a Structural Analysis Engineer at Rocket Lab's Silver Spring, Maryland location, you will analyze aerospace structures and mechanisms in support of product design, test and improvements. This facility manufactures satellite mechanisms; their products include separation systems, on-orbit devices, and other electro-mechanical deployables. Rocket Lab's commitment to improving life on earth by going to space is built upon a foundation of hard-working and motivated individuals that collaborate, challenge and have each other's backs.

What You'll Get To Do:

• Collaborate with design engineers to validate product designs and improvements via detailed structural analysis, with tools such as FEA, of intricate assemblies and mechanisms
• Create test-correlated detailed and simplified FEMs of aerospace mechanisms
• Develop product environmental test requirements, including vibration, shock and strength, tailored around industry standards such as SMC-S-016 and NASA GEVS
• Make technical recommendations based on engineering judgment and interpretation of analysis results
• Mentor and train other engineers
• Develop and validate product finite element models and their supporting documentation for internal and external use
• Support anomaly and failure analysis of space vehicles and mechanisms

You'll Bring These Qualifications As A Structural Analysis Engineer II:

• Bachelor of Science in relevant engineering field
• 2+ years finite element analysis experience
• Experience analyzing metallic assemblies

You'll Bring These Qualifications As A Senior Structural Analysis Engineer I:

• Bachelor of Science in relevant engineering field
• 5+ years finite element analysis experience including static, dynamic and non-linear
• Proficiency analyzing complex assemblies
• Strong familiarity with aerospace industry structural analysis standards
• Demonstrated ability to mentor other engineers

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• MS in relevant engineering field
• Excellent communication and problem solving skills
• Proficiency with Simcenter Nastran and Femap software
• Experience analyzing mechanisms
• Experience analyzing non-metallic materials and composites
• Experience with fatigue analysis and fracture mechanics
• Experience with shock analysis techniques
• Experience modelling free-body dynamic events
• Experience using implicit and explicit non-linear solvers
• Thermal analysis experience

Additional Requirements:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise

Level 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 HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 7 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, flex schedule, free breakfast and lunch catered 2x/week, and free snacks/drinks. 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 (MD Only): $93,400 - $135,500 USD