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Nasa Entry Engineering Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Senior/Principal Structural Analyst

Seattle, WA · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Company Overview Zeno Power is the leading developer of nuclear batteries compact power systems ... entry, or launch environment analyses is a plus. * Working knowledge of NASA standards and ...

Senior/Principal Structural Analyst

Seattle, WA

$145K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Company Overview Zeno Power is the leading developer of nuclear batteries - compact power systems ... entry, or launch environment analyses is a plus. * Working knowledge of NASA standards and ...

Senior/Principal Structural Analyst

Seattle, WA · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Company Overview Zeno Power is the leading developer of nuclear batteries - compact power systems ... entry, or launch environment analyses is a plus. * Working knowledge of NASA standards and ...

EAS Systems Engineer I

Lynnwood, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You'll join a group of aerospace professionals committed to engineering excellence and work in a ... Support data entry, requirement imports/exports and baseline creation. * Monitor system health ...

Technician Production I

Lynnwood, WA

$19 - $23.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You'll join a group of aerospace professionals committed to engineering excellence and work in a ... Ability to work in multiple software systems, including time entry, data entry, on-line training ...

Nasa Entry Engineering information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$34.1K

$78.9K

$134.3K

How much do nasa entry engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for nasa entry engineering in Seattle, WA is $78,936.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,600.00 and $89,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a NASA entry engineer?

NASA Entry Engineers are professionals who specialize in designing, analyzing, and testing systems and technologies that allow spacecraft to safely enter planetary atmospheres, such as Earth's or Mars'. They work on projects involving heat shields, parachutes, and other entry, descent, and landing (EDL) systems. Their role is critical to ensuring that spacecraft and their payloads can survive the intense conditions experienced during atmospheric entry, which include extreme temperatures and high velocities. NASA Entry Engineers collaborate with other specialists in aerodynamics, materials science, and guidance systems to develop innovative solutions for current and future missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a NASA entry engineer?

To thrive as a NASA Entry Engineer, you generally need a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field, with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB or ANSYS), CAD tools, and knowledge of spacecraft entry, descent, and landing (EDL) systems are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and adaptability help engineers collaborate on complex multidisciplinary projects and respond to evolving mission needs. These skills ensure the successful design, testing, and implementation of safe and effective space vehicle entry systems, which are critical to mission success.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level engineers at NASA and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level engineers at NASA often encounter challenges such as adapting to highly collaborative, multidisciplinary teams and navigating complex government protocols. Managing the steep learning curve associated with new technologies and large-scale projects can also be demanding. Proactively seeking mentorship, participating in training programs, and maintaining open communication with colleagues are effective ways to overcome these hurdles. Embracing continuous learning and being receptive to feedback will help new engineers thrive and contribute meaningfully to NASA’s missions.

What is the difference between Nasa Entry Engineering vs Nasa Propulsion Engineering?

AspectNasa Entry EngineeringNasa Propulsion Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in aerospace, mechanical, or related engineering; specialized training in entry systemsBachelor's or master's in aerospace, mechanical, or related engineering; focus on propulsion systems
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing heat shields, re-entry vehicles, and atmospheric entry systemsDeveloping and testing rocket engines, thrusters, and propulsion components
Employer & Industry UsageNASA, aerospace contractors, space agenciesNASA, aerospace companies, propulsion system manufacturers

Both roles require strong engineering credentials and work within aerospace and space exploration industries. Nasa Entry Engineering focuses on atmospheric entry systems and heat shields, while Nasa Propulsion Engineering specializes in rocket propulsion systems. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within NASA and related organizations.

Does NASA hire entry level engineers?

Yes, NASA hires entry-level engineers, often through internship programs, recent graduate positions, and civil service roles. Candidates typically need a relevant degree in engineering or a related field, along with strong technical skills and sometimes security clearances.

How do I get into NASA as an entry engineer?

To become an entry engineer at NASA, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or a related field, along with strong technical skills and relevant internship or research experience. Applying through USAJOBS and meeting specific job requirements, including security clearances, is essential. Developing proficiency in CAD software, programming, and understanding aerospace systems can improve chances.

Which engineers does NASA hire?

NASA hires a variety of engineers, including aerospace, mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineers, to support space exploration, research, and technology development. These roles often require relevant degrees, technical skills, and security clearances, with engineers working in laboratories, mission control, and field operations.
Infographic showing various Nasa Entry Engineering job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,936 per year, or $38 per hour.

Principal Structural Analyst

Galaxy Technology Hires LLC

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Principal Structural Analyst
Seattle, WA - Relocation Assistance Provided
The Company
Our client is developing next-generation nuclear battery technology designed to deliver reliable, long-duration power in extreme and remote environments. Their systems harness radioisotope heat to support critical missions across space, ocean, and terrestrial applications. As they work toward bringing this technology to market by 2027, our client is looking for mission-driven, innovative professionals who are excited to operate in a fast-moving startup environment. Team members will have a direct impact on enabling critical commercial and national security missions from the depths of the ocean, to the surface of the moon, and in some of the most challenging environments here on Earth.
The Job
Our client is seeking a highly motivated Senior/Principal Structural Analyst to support the mission-oriented efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) technologies. This role will be reporting to the Analysis Manager.
Functions
  • Perform detailed mechanical and structural analyses of Radioisotope Power System (RPS) structures, subsystems, and components across all program phases-from early concept and prototype to qualification and flight hardware.
  • Evaluate mechanical performance against structural limits, regulatory requirements, and applicable design and pressure vessel codes (ASME BPVC, AWS D1.1, etc.).
  • Apply NASA structural design and verification standards (e.g., NASA-STD-5001, NASA-STD-5012, NASA-HDBK-7004, NASA-STD-7009) to ensure compliance with flight-class structural integrity, safety factors, and analysis documentation practices.
  • Assess component margins and performance under mechanical, thermal, and acoustic environments using static, model, vibration, and explicit dynamic analyses.
  • Document findings and provide guidance through clear, traceable analysis reports that conform with the company's technical writing standards.
  • Develop test requirements and plans to validate analytical results; correlate test data to analytical models and update predictions as required.
  • Provide oversight and mentorship to internal analysts, review vendor and partner analysis deliverables for technical accuracy, compliance, and quality consistency.
  • Provide input and guidance to mechanical design teams to inform component sizing, subsystem configuration, and material selection.
  • Collaborate closely with systems, materials, and test engineers to ensure robust, manufacturable, and testable hardware designs.

Qualifications
  • B.S. or higher in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering from an accredited university (M.S. preferred).
  • 7+ years of experience in structural analysis including steady state, random vibration, and thermal environments for aerospace or nuclear systems.
  • Demonstrated proficiency and deep understanding of FEA tools (ANSYS Mechanical preferred; Abaqus, Nastran, or LS-DYNA a plus).
  • Strong background in dynamic structural analysis, including random vibration, sine sweep, shock, and transient response.
  • Experience with impact, re-entry, or launch environment analyses is a plus.
  • Working knowledge of NASA standards and verification processes (NASA-STD-5001B, NASA-STD-5012, NASA-HDBK-7005, NASA-STD-7009) highly desired.
  • Familiarity with fracture mechanics, fatigue life estimation, and damage tolerance principles.
  • Experience generating stress reports and component margins justifications consistent with NASA or aerospace prime contractor standards.
  • Working knowledge of 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks or similar) and GD&T (ASME Y14.5) for model-based definition and analysis.
  • Experience working under structured quality systems (NQA-1, AS9100, ISO 9001, or similar).
  • Excellent technical writing skills and ability to present results clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Self-starter capable of leading analysis efforts with minimal supervision, thriving in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills; able to work independently or as part of a cross-functional team.

Additional Requirements
  • Position requires in-office presence in Seattle (South Lake Union) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, remote work is optional on Mondays and Fridays.
  • Travel: Travel is required <10%
  • Motor Abilities: Sitting and/or standing for extended periods, bending/stooping, grasping/gripping, fine motor control (hands)
  • Physical exertion and/or requirements: Minimal, with ability to safely lift up to 15 pounds
  • Repetitive work: Prolonged
  • Special Senses: Visual and audio focused work
  • Work Conditions: Stairs, typing/keyboard, standard and/or sitting working environment of >8 hrs./day

Export Controls
Applicants for employment at the company must be a U.S. person. The term "U.S. Person" means (i) a U.S citizen or U.S. national; or (ii) any natural person who is a U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident (i.e., holds a Green Card), as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or as a "protected individual" defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) (i.e., admitted as a refugee or is granted asylum).