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Spacecraft Structural Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Staff Structural Analyst

San Jose, CA · On-site

$212K - $234K/yr

About the role Muon seeks an experienced and passionate spacecraft structural analyst to join our team. The ideal candidate has unwavering attention to detail and a total ownership mindset to help ...

Role Overview As a Structural Analyst on Xona's Mechanical and Thermal team, you'll own the structural analysis, sizing, and verification of spacecraft hardware from early concept development through ...

Role Overview As a Structural Analyst on Xona's Mechanical and Thermal team, you'll own the structural analysis, sizing, and verification of spacecraft hardware from early concept development through ...

Role Overview As a Structural Analyst on Xona's Mechanical and Thermal team, you'll own the structural analysis, sizing, and verification of spacecraft hardware from early concept development through ...

Structural Analyst

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Role Overview As a Structural Analyst on Xona's Mechanical and Thermal team, you'll own the structural analysis, sizing, and verification of spacecraft hardware from early concept development through ...

Role Overview As a Structural Analyst on Xona's Mechanical and Thermal team, you'll own the structural analysis, sizing, and verification of spacecraft hardware from early concept development through ...

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Spacecraft Structural Analyst information

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$12

$65

$90

How much do spacecraft structural analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for spacecraft structural analyst in the United States is $65.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54.81 and $76.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a spacecraft structural analyst do?

A Spacecraft Structural Analyst is responsible for evaluating and ensuring the structural integrity of spacecraft components. They use engineering principles and advanced simulation tools to analyze how parts of a spacecraft will respond to stresses such as launch, vibration, and thermal changes in space. Their work helps prevent failures by identifying potential weaknesses and recommending design improvements. This role is crucial for mission success, as even minor structural issues can significantly impact performance and safety.

What are some common challenges faced by spacecraft structural analysts during the design and testing phases?

Spacecraft Structural Analysts often encounter challenges such as ensuring structural integrity while minimizing weight, which is critical for launch and mission success. They must also address complex load cases and vibrations experienced during launch, orbit, and re-entry, requiring precise modeling and simulation. Additionally, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—including thermal, propulsion, and avionics engineers—is essential to resolve conflicting design requirements and guarantee overall system reliability. These challenges demand strong problem-solving skills and close attention to detail throughout both the design and testing phases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a spacecraft structural analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Spacecraft Structural Analyst, you need a strong background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, structural analysis, and material science, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) software such as ANSYS or NASTRAN, and familiarity with CAD systems and industry standards, are essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for translating complex technical data into actionable insights. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring spacecraft integrity, safety, and mission success under demanding conditions.

What is the difference between Spacecraft Structural Analyst vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectSpacecraft Structural AnalystMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace, mechanical engineering, or related field; often certifications in CAD or FEA softwareBachelor's or higher in mechanical engineering; similar certifications in CAD or FEA tools
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in aerospace labs, design offices, and testing facilitiesIn manufacturing plants, design offices, and testing labs
Employer & Industry UsageSpacecraft manufacturers, aerospace agencies, defense contractorsManufacturing firms, aerospace, automotive, and industrial sectors

While both roles require engineering degrees and similar certifications, a Spacecraft Structural Analyst specializes in analyzing spacecraft structures using FEA and CAD tools, focusing on space-specific requirements. Mechanical Engineers have broader applications across various industries, including designing and testing mechanical systems. The key difference lies in the industry focus and specific expertise in spacecraft structures for analysts.

What cities are hiring for Spacecraft Structural Analyst jobs?

Cities with the most Spacecraft Structural Analyst job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Spacecraft Structural Analyst jobs?

For Spacecraft Structural Analyst jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Spacecraft Structural Analyst

Lancaster, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description

Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc. (ACT) is a leading provider of thermal management solutions for aerospace, defense, data centers, energy, and industrial applications. For more than 20 years, ACT has engineered and manufactured innovative technologies that solve complex thermal challenges in demanding environments. Our team is driven by continuous innovation, teamwork, and collaboration, delivering reliable solutions that support critical missions and next-generation technologies worldwide.


The Structural Analyst will work as part of a small, collaborative team of engineers and technicians to support mechanical design efforts, primarily for defense and space applications. This role involves analyzing launch, landing, and maneuvering loads, pressure containment, and thermal-mechanical stresses. Projects range from early-phase trade studies to detailed, system-level dynamic analyses. The Structural Analyst will also contribute to the development of emerging thermal technologies and collaborate closely with product development and manufacturing teams to transition designs from concept to prototype and production.


  Responsibilities

  • Performing mechanical design and structural analyses-both static and dynamic-at the component, subsystem, and system level for advanced spacecraft applications
  • Providing design recommendations based on analysis outputs that align with product manufacturability requirements
  • Developing comprehensive test plans and supporting test execution and data interpretation
  • Reviewing, preparing, and releasing technical documentation with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and completeness
  • Evaluating the impact of design or scope changes on cost, schedule, and technical performance, and communicating those impacts proactively
  • Collaborating effectively with cross-functional and multi-location teams, including engineers, technicians, and manufacturing personnel
  • Managing project schedules and budgets to ensure timely and cost-effective execution of program objectives
  • Maintaining regular communication with customers to provide updates, address technical concerns, and align on program goals
  • Support the Sales and Marketing team in efforts to acquire new bookings, including proposal development, and customer engagement

We're seeking candidates who thrive in dynamic settings and are comfortable balancing multiple responsibilities. Ideal team members are intrinsically motivated, collaborative, customer-focused, and enjoy partnering with vendors, coworkers, and clients to deliver exceptional service and solutions.


The strongest applicants will approach challenges with curiosity, apply critical thinking, and contribute innovative ideas to complex problems. 

Requirements

  • B.S. or M.S. degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
  • Minimum of 5 years of engineering experience
  • Must meet the definition of a U.S. person in accordance with ITAR requirements
  • Strong understanding of engineering mechanics, including statics and strength of materials
  • Experience in structural analysis tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, NASTRAN, or similar)
  • Proven ability to perform structural analyses, including both static and dynamic evaluations
  • Experience in test planning, test execution support, and data analysis
  • Familiarity with composite materials is preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to clearly communicate the full engineering workflow-from problem definition and analysis setup to results presentation and interpretation-to support informed technical decision-making through reports and presentations

ACT offers competitive pay, excellent benefits (medical, dental, vision, paid time off, holidays, company-paid life & disability insurance, 401(k) match, and profit-sharing), and a supportive team environment.


ACT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.


ACT participates in E-Verify.


California Applicants: ACT collects personal information for hiring purposes. California residents may have rights under the CCPA/CPRA. Contact HR at barbara.rockwell@1-act.com.