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Structural Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Staff Structural Analyst

Alameda, CA ยท On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

How You'll Fulfill Your Mission The Sr Staff Structural Analyst is a senior, technical leader responsible for the comprehensive execution, quality, and technical integrity of all complex engineering ...

Structural Analyst II

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$115 - $170/hr

About the Role As an analyst at Antares your primary responsibility will be building and running thermal-structural models of components and subsystems throughout the reactor core and power ...

Structural Analyst II

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

About the Role As an analyst at Antares your primary responsibility will be building and running thermal-structural models of components and subsystems throughout the reactor core and power ...

Structural Analyst II

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

About the Role As an analyst at Antares your primary responsibility will be building and running thermal-structural models of components and subsystems throughout the reactor core and power ...

Perform detailed structural analyses of dynamic system components, including the rotor system, control system, and blades * Evaluate static strength and fatigue life of critical structures using ...

Showing results 21-40

Structural Analyst information

See California salary details

$11

$64

$88

How much do structural analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural analyst in California is $64.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54.09 and $75.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a structural analyst?

A Structural Analyst is an engineering professional who evaluates and analyzes the strength, stability, and rigidity of structures such as buildings, bridges, or aircraft. They use mathematical models, computer simulations, and physical testing to ensure that structures can withstand various loads and stresses without failing. Their work is essential in the design phase to verify that safety standards are met, and they often collaborate closely with architects and other engineers. Structural Analysts help prevent structural failures by identifying potential weaknesses and recommending improvements.

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

To thrive as a Structural Analyst, you need a solid background in structural engineering principles, finite element analysis, and a relevant engineering degree, often with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with analysis software such as ANSYS, SAP2000, or Abaqus, as well as CAD tools, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure precise analysis, effective collaboration, and the safety and reliability of structural designs.

What are some common challenges a structural analyst faces when working on multidisciplinary engineering projects?

Structural Analysts often collaborate with architects, mechanical engineers, and construction teams, which can present challenges such as aligning design priorities and managing communication across disciplines. Balancing structural integrity with aesthetic or functional requirements frequently requires creative problem-solving and adaptability. Additionally, tight deadlines and evolving project specifications may demand quick analysis and revisions, making effective time management a valuable skill. Proactive communication and openness to feedback are key to ensuring successful project outcomes in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Structural Analyst vs Structural Engineer?

AspectStructural AnalystStructural Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering, certifications varyBachelor's or master's in civil or structural engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, using analysis software to evaluate structuresDesign, planning, site visits, and project management
Industry UsageCommon in consulting firms, construction, and engineering servicesDesign and construction firms, infrastructure projects

While both roles involve structural analysis, a Structural Analyst primarily focuses on evaluating existing structures using software, whereas a Structural Engineer designs and oversees new structures. The roles often overlap in skills and industry settings, but their core responsibilities differ.

Infographic showing various Structural Analyst job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,705 per year, or $64.3 per hour.

Staff Structural Analyst

Astra Space, Inc.

Alameda, CA โ€ข On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Astra's mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry's leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.
How You'll Fulfill Your Mission
The Sr Staff Structural Analyst is a senior, technical leader responsible for the comprehensive execution, quality, and technical integrity of all complex engineering analyses across the company's rocket and spacecraft propulsion programs. This role will set the technical standard for analysis methodologies, lead the most challenging technical investigations, and serve as the company's principal expert in relevant analytical domains (e.g., structural, thermal, fluid dynamics, propulsion performance). This is a hands-on role focusing on technical excellence, mentorship, and critical design review leadership.
  • Technical Leadership & Execution: Act as the principal subject matter expert and technical authority for all high-fidelity engineering analyses (FEA, CFD, thermal, kinematic, multi-physics). Personally lead and execute the most critical and complex analyses to drive primary design decisions for launch vehicle and spacecraft propulsion systems.
  • Methodology & Standards: Define, standardize, and institutionalize best practices, tools, and methodologies for engineering analysis across all programs. Ensure analyses are grounded in first principles physics and are appropriately validated against test data.
  • Technical Oversight & Review: Provide technical oversight and final sign-off on critical analysis reports and technical memorandums. Lead internal design review boards (PDR, CDR) specifically focused on analysis fidelity and margin assessment.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Design, Manufacturing, Test, and Safety teams to ensure analysis models accurately reflect real-world boundary conditions, material properties, and manufacturing tolerances.
  • Mentorship & Development: Act as a technical mentor and guide for analysis engineers. Develop training materials and conduct internal seminars to raise the overall technical competency of the analysis team.
  • Risk & Uncertainty Quantification: Establish and drive the use of advanced methods for quantifying uncertainty and margin in analytical models, feeding into system-level reliability assessments.

Why We Value You
  • Education: Master's degree or Ph.D. in Aeronautical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
  • Experience: Minimum of 8 years of progressive, hands-on experience in engineering analysis within the aerospace, defense, or high-performance industry, with a significant focus on launch vehicles, spacecraft, or turbomachinery.
  • Domain Expertise: Deep, demonstrated expertise in two or more of the following: Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for structural dynamics and non-linear material behavior; Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for reacting flows, propulsion, or high-speed aerodynamics; Thermal Analysis and heat transfer in extreme environments.
  • Software Proficiency: Expert proficiency in industry-standard analysis software packages (e.g., NASTRAN/Patran, Abaqus, ANSYS, STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM).
  • Coding Skills: Proven ability to develop custom analysis scripts and tools using languages such as Python, MATLAB, or C++.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with standard aerospace analysis requirements, standards, and safety factors (e.g., NASA, DoD, or FAA/AST guidelines).

Desired Multipliers
  • Advanced Materials: Experience analyzing systems utilizing advanced materials such as composites, additive manufacturing parts, and superalloys in cryogenic or high-temperature environments.
  • Test-Correlation Experience: Proven track record of planning, executing, and critically correlating analysis models with ground and flight test data.
  • IC Leadership: Prior experience functioning as a recognized Senior Engineer, in an Individual Contributor capacity.
  • Geometric Modeling: Working knowledge of modern CAD systems (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, CATIA) and best practices for analysis model generation.

The pay range for this role is: $160,000-220,000
The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Astra, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.
San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.
ITAR Requirements: This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant's status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.