Principal Structural Dynamics Engineer

YOUR MISSION

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the analysis and validation of spacecraft and/or missile defense systems to ensure survivability and performance under dynamic environments, including launch, on-orbit, and mission operations.
• Perform detailed structural dynamics analyses, including modal, harmonic, random vibration, shock, and transient response simulations.
• Develop documentation and best practices across engineering team including modeling tools, process documentation, and analysis templates.
• Develop and validate finite element models (FEMs) of spacecraft and/or missile structures and subsystems, ensuring accuracy in predicting dynamic behavior.
• Define and lead dynamic testing campaigns, including vibration, shock, and acoustic testing, to verify structural integrity and correlate models with test results.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, thermal, and systems engineering, to ensure dynamic requirements are integrated into the design process.
• Provide expertise in structural dynamics during trade studies, design reviews, and critical decision-making processes.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 12+ years of experience in structural dynamics analysis for aerospace, defense, or high-reliability applications.
• Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as FEMAP/NASTRAN or HyperWorks/OptiStruct.
• Experience in spacecraft and/or missile defense dynamic environments, including launch loads, aero loads, vibration, and shock.
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, fracture mechanics, material properties, and failure modes in aerospace applications.
• Hands-on experience with environmental testing, including random, sine, and sine burst vibration

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 15+ years of experience in structural dynamics analysis for aerospace, defense, or high-reliability applications.
• Thermal and fluid systems analysis experience
• Mastery of spacecraft-specific structural dynamics challenges, such as coupled loads analysis and dynamic coupling between subsystems.
• Mastery of missile defense - specific structural dynamics challenges, such as aerothermal loading.
• Experience working with lightweight structures, composites, and advanced materials.
• Proficiency in CAD tools, such as SolidWorks and NX for integrating FEMs with detailed vehicle assembly models – Teamcenter for PLM
• Hands-on experience with instrumentation for dynamic testing, including accelerometers, strain gauges, and data acquisition systems.
• Hands-on experience with environmental testing including shock and acoustic tests.
• Demonstrated experience with full program life cycle (capture to launch)

COMPENSATION

• Base Salary:
  • California Base Salary: $205,000-$285,000
  • Colorado Base Salary: $195,000-$270,000
• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

Your actual 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, location, and experience.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to maintain or obtain TS/SCI clearance.
• Work Location: while we observe a hybrid work environment, you will need to be onsite as the business needs require. On an average week, you can expect to spend at least 3 days per week in office at our Gravity Works facilities.
• Work environment is in a standard office, working at a desk or in a production factory.
• Physical demands may include frequent standing, sitting, walking, bending, and lifting or carrying items up to 20lbs.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite