Structural Analyst III

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly. Who We’re Looking For We are seeking a Spacecraft Structural Analyst III to lead the design, analysis, and development of spacecraft structural systems across multiple flight programs. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring structural integrity from early concept through flight, performing high-fidelity structural analyses, supporting hardware testing, and driving design decisions that balance mass, strength, and manufacturability. As a senior member of the engineering team, you will work closely with propulsion, avionics, thermal, and systems engineers to ensure structurally sound spacecraft designs while helping guide structural standards, modeling practices, and verification approaches across the company. Where You’ll Make an Impact Structural Design & Analysis Lead structural analysis and design efforts for spacecraft primary and secondary structures Perform detailed analyses including static, modal, vibration, shock, acoustic, and thermal-structural coupling Develop finite element models to evaluate structural margins across launch and on-orbit environments Conduct structural trade studies to optimize mass, stiffness, manufacturability, and system integration Structural Modeling & Simulation Build and maintain spacecraft finite element models (FEM) using tools such as NASTRAN, FEMAP, ANSYS, or equivalent Generate analysis-ready models from CAD assemblies (Creo or similar) and ensure consistency between design and analysis configurations Develop analysis workflows and modeling practices to support rapid design iteration Structural Verification & Test Support Define structural verification strategies including analysis-based margin justification and environmental test plans Support structural testing campaigns including vibration, acoustic, shock, and static load testing Correlate FEM results with test data and update models to improve predictive capability Cross-Functional Integration Collaborate closely with mechanical, propulsion, avionics, GNC, and thermal teams to ensure structural compatibility across spacecraft systems Participate in design reviews, technical discussions, and program milestones to ensure structural readiness Identify structural risks early and propose mitigation strategies Technical Leadership Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior structural and mechanical engineers Contribute to development of internal structural analysis standards, tools, and best practices Support program leadership with structural insights during key engineering and mission decisions What It Takes Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Structural Engineering 7+ years of experience performing structural analysis for spacecraft, launch vehicles, or comparable aerospace hardware Strong experience with finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as NASTRAN, FEMAP, ANSYS, Abaqus, or similar Experience building structural models directly from CAD assemblies (Creo, SolidWorks, NX, or equivalent) Expertise analyzing launch and dynamic environments, including sine/random vibration, shock, and acoustic loads Experience supporting structural testing and model correlation using real hardware test data Knowledge of aerospace structural materials, joints, fasteners, and lightweight structural design techniques Ability to operate independently while collaborating effectively across multidisciplinary teams Nice-to-Have Experience Experience with spacecraft structural environments and mission loads Familiarity with composite structures, thin-walled pressure vessels, or propulsion system structures Experience supporting environmental test campaigns, including instrumentation and fixture design Familiarity with Python or MATLAB for analysis automation or post-processing Experience with fracture mechanics tools such as NASGRO Familiarity with aerospace structural standards such as NASA-STD-5001, SMC-S-016, or MIL-STD-1540 Experience working in a fast-paced startup or rapid development environment What You’ll Get Ownership – Lead structural analysis and verification efforts for mission-critical spacecraft hardware, taking responsibility for structural integrity from early design through integration, testing, and flight readiness Innovation – Apply advanced finite element modeling, simulation, and structural optimization techniques to develop lightweight, high-performance spacecraft structures Impact – Play a direct role in ensuring the structural reliability and performance of spacecraft supporting national security, civil, and commercial space missions Growth – Join a collaborative, fast-paced engineering team where you can expand your technical leadership, mentor engineers, establish structural analysis best practices, and help shape the future of spacecraft technology Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation. Location: Rockville, MD Base Salary: $145,000-195,000 The salary range for this role is determined based on a variety of factors including work experience, education, technical expertise, certifications, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full-time offers and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package. Additional Requirements To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.