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Structural Analysis Engineer Jobs in Long Beach, CA

Reporting to the Structural Engineering Manager , the Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer will support spacecraft structural systems and subsystem design from concept development through design reviews ...

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ABOUT THE JOB We are looking for a Structural Analysis Engineer to work in Costa Mesa, CA, with In-depth understanding of statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, and materials properties. WHAT YOU ...

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Structural Analysis Engineer information

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How much do structural analysis engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural analysis engineer in Long Beach, CA is $68.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57.64 and $80.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a structural analysis engineer do?

As a structural analysis engineer, you test equipment, buildings, and manufactured products to determine whether or not they meet performance goals, standards, regulations, and requirements. You may perform a stress test on various materials, monitor construction data, evaluate equipment or design blueprints, and otherwise help to ensure the final product is structurally sound. Most structural analysis engineers focus on building construction, but some work with aircraft, cars, or other heavy equipment instead. This job is highly time-sensitive because construction often cannot proceed until structural analysis checks are done. So, the ability to work quickly and efficiently is essential to success in this role.

What does a structural analysis engineer do?

A Structural Analysis Engineer is responsible for evaluating the strength, stability, and rigidity of structures such as buildings, bridges, aircraft, and other frameworks. They use mathematical models, computer simulations, and physical testing to ensure designs can withstand various loads and stresses during their lifespan. Their work helps prevent structural failures and ensures compliance with safety codes and standards. Structural Analysis Engineers often collaborate with architects, designers, and construction teams to optimize material use and design efficiency.

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

To excel as a Structural Analysis Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or mechanical engineering, expertise in structural mechanics, and a relevant engineering degree, often with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA) software such as ANSYS or Abaqus, as well as CAD and simulation tools, is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills that help engineers interpret data and work collaboratively. These skills ensure the safe and efficient design, evaluation, and optimization of structures, which is critical for public safety and project success.

What are some common challenges faced by structural analysis engineers when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Structural Analysis Engineers often collaborate with teams from mechanical, electrical, and architectural disciplines. A common challenge is ensuring that structural requirements are balanced with other project needs, such as space constraints or integration with non-structural systems. Effective communication and early involvement in project planning help address potential conflicts and ensure that safety and performance standards are met without delays. Adaptability and strong teamwork skills are essential for navigating these complex, collaborative environments.

What is the difference between Structural Analysis Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectStructural Analysis EngineerCivil Engineer
Primary FocusAnalyzing and designing structural components and systemsDesigning, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings
CertificationsFE/EIT, PE (Structural)FE/EIT, PE (Civil)
Work EnvironmentEngineering firms, construction sites, consultingConstruction sites, government agencies, consulting firms
Industry UsageCommon in structural design projectsBroader, includes structural but also transportation, environmental, and geotechnical

While both roles require engineering credentials and often work in similar environments, Structural Analysis Engineers specialize in analyzing and designing structural components, whereas Civil Engineers have a broader scope including infrastructure and environmental projects. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Structural Analysis Engineer jobs in Long Beach, CA?

For Structural Analysis Engineer jobs in Long Beach, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Structural Analysis Engineer jobs in Long Beach, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Structural Analysis Engineer jobs in Long Beach, CA are:

What cities near Long Beach, CA are hiring for Structural Analysis Engineer jobs?

Cities near Long Beach, CA with the most Structural Analysis Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Structural Analysis Engineer job openings in Long Beach, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $142,452 per year, or $68.5 per hour.

Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions. 

SPACECRAFT STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS ENGINEER I/II

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I/II contributes to the analysis, design validation, and future improvements of our suite of Space Systems and Space Components. You will be expected to define loads and environments, perform detailed simulations and physics-based analysis, guide design, and help validate analysis, design, and system performance through test. You will support the Vehicle Design Director and Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer I or Spacecraft Structural Analysis Engineer II level)

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Define, process, and interpret static and dynamic ground test & flight data, including: sensor selection, data acquisition and validation, and environmental determination (random vibration, shock, quasi-static, acoustic, pressure, and thermal)
  • Perform, validate, and document structural analyses of primary and secondary vehicle structures, including: finite element model verification and validation, material selection, performance of trade-off studies, and mass optimization
  • Perform structural and dynamic simulations, including: static, modal, random vibration, buckling, and thermoelastic
  • Work closely with design and test engineers to iterate through design concepts, determine test requirements, and demonstrate positive structural margins
  • Define test requirements and directly support testing of vehicle subsystems and components
  • Lead technical projects and programs, as required, both within analysis and across disciplines and teams
  • Help implement new theory and tools within the team and establish best practices in areas of technical expertise

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SPACECRAFT STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS ENGINEER I:

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, or other engineering discipline
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance
  • U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements
  • Structural analysis experience in the aerospace industry
  • Experience using NX Nastran, NX CAD, and Teamcenter packages

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SPACECRAFT STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS ENGINEER II:

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, or other engineering discipline
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance
  • U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements
  • 2+ years of structural analysis experience in the aerospace industry
  • Experience using NX Nastran, NX CAD, and Teamcenter packages

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Master's or PhD in mechanical engineering, or other engineering discipline
  • Active security clearance
  • Experience in analyzing additive manufactured parts
  • Experience with sensor selection and data post-processing/interpretation (accelerometers, strain gauges, etc.)
  • Experience in structural analysis of composites (laminate design, joint design, materials characterization, environmental effects)
  • Familiarity with nonlinear material simulation, including metal plasticity, elastomers, and adhesive joints
  • Experience in spacecraft-level structural test campaign design, execution, data processing, and validation

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

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, and experience.

Total Compensation (base and equity)
$89,350—$179,675 USD
Base Salary
$82,400—$144,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT 

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.


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