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Nasa Structural Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Redwire Space

Structural Engineer Sr. Staff

Goleta, CA · On-site

$168K - $204K/yr

The team is revolutionizing spaceflight and are currently being utilized on missions with NASA, the ... Redwire Space Enterprises, INC is seeking a Sr Staff Structural Engineer to join our Structural ...

Redwire Space

Structural Engineer Sr. Staff

Goleta, CA · On-site

$168K - $204K/yr

The team is revolutionizing spaceflight and are currently being utilized on missions with NASA, the ... Redwire Space Enterprises, INC is seeking a Sr Staff Structural Engineer to join our Structural ...

Redwire Space

Structural Engineer Sr. Staff

Goleta, CA · On-site

$168K - $204K/hr

The team is revolutionizing spaceflight and are currently being utilized on missions with NASA, the ... Redwire Space Enterprises, INC is seeking a Sr Staff Structural Engineer to join our Structural ...

Antares

Structures Engineer I/II

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K - $185K/yr

... NASA, or other applicable structural and mechanical design standards. * Experience serving as a ... Structures Engineer II - $115,000 - $150,000 * Senior Structures Engineer - $140,000 - $185,000 ...

Antares

Senior Structures Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K - $185K/yr

... NASA, or other applicable structural and mechanical design standards. * Experience serving as a ... multidisciplinary engineering efforts from concept development through design, testing ...

Vast

Senior Structures Engineer, Lunar

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$105K - $143K/yr

Vast is looking for a Senior Structures Engineer, Lunar , reporting to the Senior Vice President ... Familiarity with spacecraft structural specifications such as SMC-S-016 and NASA-STD-5001.

Inversion

Structures Engineer II

Los Angeles, CA

$110K - $150K/yr

S. Space Force and NASA, Inversion is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space-based ... Own structural concept development from early architecture through hardware realization , balancing ...

Inversion

Structures Engineer II

Vista, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

S. Space Force and NASA, Inversion is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space-based ... Own structural concept development from early architecture through hardware realization , balancing ...

Relativity Space

Senior Structures Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$105K - $143K/yr

About the Role: As a Senior Structures Engineer within the Interplanetary Sciences Program at ... Familiarity with NASA or other spaceflight structural design and verification standards

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All JobsNasa Structural Engineer JobsNasa Structural Engineer Jobs in California

Nasa Structural Engineer information

See California salary details

$49.3K

$98.1K

$150K

How much do nasa structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for nasa structural engineer in California is $98,098.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a NASA structural engineer?

A NASA Structural Engineer designs, analyzes, and tests structures for spacecraft, launch vehicles, space habitats, and other aerospace systems. They ensure that these structures can withstand extreme forces, temperatures, and environmental conditions in space. Their work involves using advanced materials, computer simulations, and structural testing to optimize performance and safety. Structural engineers collaborate with other engineering disciplines to develop innovative and reliable space technologies.

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

To thrive as a NASA Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in structural engineering principles gained through an ABET-accredited engineering degree and relevant experience, often supported by a Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certifications. Familiarity with advanced simulation and analysis tools such as NASTRAN, finite element analysis (FEA) software, and CAD systems is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication abilities help you excel in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring the structural integrity and safety of aerospace projects that operate in extreme environments.

What are some unique challenges NASA structural engineers face in their work?

NASA Structural Engineers often work on projects that must withstand the harsh and unique conditions of space, such as extreme temperatures, vibrations, and radiation, which present complex engineering challenges. They are responsible for ensuring that spacecraft, satellites, and launch vehicles are not only lightweight and efficient but also resilient and reliable under these demanding conditions. Collaboration with experts in materials science, propulsion, and aerodynamics is a regular part of the role, requiring strong communication and coordination skills. Adaptability and innovation are also key, as project requirements and technology can evolve rapidly in the course of development.

Does NASA have structural engineers?

Yes, NASA employs structural engineers to design and analyze the structural integrity of spacecraft, launch vehicles, and ground support equipment. These engineers typically have expertise in materials, stress analysis, and CAD tools, and often hold engineering degrees and security clearances. Their work ensures safety and performance in space missions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nasa Structural Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Nasa Structural Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Nasa Structural Engineer jobs in California?

For Nasa Structural Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nasa Structural Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Nasa Structural Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Nasa Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Nasa Structural Engineer job openings:

Nasa Structural Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nasa Structural Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,098 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Structural Engineer Sr. Staff

Redwire Space

Goleta, CA • On-site

$168K - $204K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Join our team of innovators and get a chance to work alongside a team of talented, curious people that are passionate about designing and deploying solutions that are accelerating humanity's expansion into space.
The talented innovators in Goleta, CA are a leading developer and provider of satellite mechanisms, deployable structures and booms and deployable solar array systems to the global space market. The team is revolutionizing spaceflight and are currently being utilized on missions with NASA, the Department of Defense, and commercial space companies. With many more exciting projects on the horizon our team could use your curiosity, passion, talent and experience to help us Build Above.
Redwire Space Enterprises, INC is seeking a Sr Staff Structural Engineer to join our Structural Analysis team in Goleta, CA. This role focuses on loads and dynamics for advanced space systems, with an emphasis on finite element modeling and dynamic testing of large deployable solar arrays for spacecraft.
Responsibilities
  • Develop systemlevel dynamic finite element models of deployable spacecraft structures using Ansys or Femap/Nastran
  • Perform detailed modeling and analysis of composite and metallic structures, including sandwich panel configurations
  • Support all phases of component and sub-component structural static and dynamic testing, including test planning, test procedures, on-site test execution, post-test data processing, and test reports
  • Correlate analytical models with test results to validate structural performance
  • Conduct piecepart stress analyses (including bolted joints) and document in stress reports to support drawing release
  • Review engineering designs and drawings, providing clear and actionable analysis feedback to the Design Engineering team
  • Work closely with mechanical design, thermal, and systems engineering teams to ensure structural requirements are understood, traceable, and met
  • Prepare and present technical reports, findings, and design review materials for internal and customer-facing reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.)
  • Serve as a direct interface with customers, ensuring clear communication and alignment on technical issues and requirements
  • Independently develop solutions and analysis approaches with minimal oversight
Ideal Experience
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Systems, or related STEM discipline
  • Creating finite element models using Nastran or Ansys based on CAD geometry making assumptions and simplifications to adequately represent the structure
  • Vibration test experience (random vibration and sine)
  • Ability to travel to support testing. Most of the travel is local but some overnight travel may be required
Desired Skills
  • 10 or more years of applicable experience
  • Non-linear and transient FEA analysis
  • Demonstrated ability to work under general direction, providing technical solutions to a wide range of difficult problems
  • Experience with dynamic environments such as launch loads, vibration, and shock
  • Experience modeling solar arrays and other deployable space structures
  • Experience with Thermal Desktop is a plus
  • Experience working with NASA and other aerospace guidelines and specifications, for example: GSFC-STD-7000 (GEVS), SMC-S-016, MMPDS, etc.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office 365, including SharePoint and Teams. Microsoft Project experience a plus
  • Strong attention to detail and self-motivated in applying engineering principles, concepts, and practices of mechanical / aerospace engineering to independently perform assignments
Grow with us as we innovate the next generation capabilities for a new era of space exploration! We offer a highly competitive benefits package along with a commitment to our core values of Integrity, Innovation, Impact, Inclusion, and Excellence.
Don't meet every single requirement above? No worries. We want people who can grow, collaborate and build a stronger team. We strive to build a diverse and inclusive culture, so if you're excited about this job posting, we encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Pay Range
$168,000 - $204,000

How We Determine What We Pay (Compensation Philosophy)
Redwire determines pay for positions using local, national, and industry-specific survey data, for our locations throughout the US. We will evaluate external equity and the cost of labor/prevailing wage index, in the relative marketplace for jobs directly comparable to jobs within our company.

For new hires, we strive to make competitive offers allowing the new employee room for future growth. Salaries will be based on the applicant's level of experience, education, and specialized knowledge and skills. Additionally, we consider the external market rate, the amount we have budgeted internally, and internal equity within the company for the same position. An employee/candidate with a stronger skill set will receive higher pay.
Redwire is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Redwire is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
All offers of employment at Redwire are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check and your ability to provide proof of eligibility to work in the US. Note that some positions will also require US citizenship or ability to obtain a security clearance due to requirements of a classified program.
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulation

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