1

Structural Dynamics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Structural Dynamics Engineer Location: Arnold AFB, TN Job Family Code: O-Engineering Function/Branch: Engineering /Engineering Solutions Directorate: Engineering & Tech Support Position Type: Regular ...

Senior/Staff Loads & Dynamics Engineer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$207 - $253/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Team The Structural Dynamics & Validation team ensures that NEO performs reliably, quietly, and safely in the real world. We combine advanced simulation, experimental testing, and cross ...

Senior Dynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$112K - $154K/yr

Own development of vehicle loads, structural dynamics, and multibody dynamics analyses from early architecture through hardware realization * Define and mature load cases and dynamic environments ...

Own development of vehicle loads, structural dynamics, and multibody dynamics analyses from early architecture through hardware realization * Define and mature load cases and dynamic environments ...

Own development of vehicle loads, structural dynamics, and multibody dynamics analyses from early architecture through hardware realization * Define and mature load cases and dynamic environments ...

Senior Dynamics Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

Own development of vehicle loads, structural dynamics, and multibody dynamics analyses from early architecture through hardware realization * Define and mature load cases and dynamic environments ...

Showing results 41-60

Structural Dynamics information

See salary details

$50K

$99.4K

$152K

How much do structural dynamics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural dynamics in the United States is $99,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in structural dynamics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Structural Dynamics often encounter challenges such as accurately modeling complex structures, managing the effects of dynamic loads, and ensuring compliance with evolving industry standards. Addressing these issues typically involves staying up to date with the latest simulation software, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams (such as civil engineers and architects), and continuously expanding technical knowledge through professional development. Open communication and teamwork are crucial when solving unexpected dynamic responses or integrating new materials into structural designs.

What is structural dynamics?

Structural dynamics is the study of how structures respond to loads that change with time, such as wind, earthquakes, or moving vehicles. It involves analyzing and predicting the behavior of buildings, bridges, and other structures when subjected to dynamic forces to ensure safety and performance. Professionals in this field use mathematical models and simulations to understand vibrations, resonance, and potential failure modes. This knowledge is crucial for designing structures that can withstand unpredictable or extreme events.

What is the difference between Structural Dynamics vs Structural Analysis?

AspectStructural DynamicsStructural Analysis
FocusStudy of structures under dynamic loads like earthquakes and windAssessment of structures under static or steady loads
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, possibly specialized training in dynamicsEngineering degree, often with structural analysis certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, consulting firms, construction sitesDesign offices, consulting firms, construction sites
Industry UsageEarthquake engineering, aerospace, civil engineeringBuilding design, infrastructure projects, safety assessments

Structural Dynamics focuses on how structures respond to dynamic forces like earthquakes, while Structural Analysis evaluates how structures bear static loads. Both roles require similar credentials and are used across civil engineering and construction industries, but their applications differ based on the type of loads considered.

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

To thrive as a Structural Dynamics Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or civil engineering, with expertise in vibration analysis, finite element modeling, and a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in technical tools such as MATLAB, ANSYS, and other simulation software, along with knowledge of industry codes and possibly a Professional Engineer (PE) license, is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of complex structures in applications like aerospace, automotive, and civil infrastructure.
More about Structural Dynamics jobs

What states have the most Structural Dynamics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Structural Dynamics jobs include:

Infographic showing various Structural Dynamics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,400 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Structural Dynamics Engineer II (Spacecraft)

Firefly Aerospace

Cedar Park, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Firefly Aerospace rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT FIREFLY AEROSPACE
Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company on a mission to reliably and repeatedly launch, land, and operate space systems from Earth to the Moon and beyond. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the first commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the first company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.
SUMMARY
We are seeking a Structural Dynamics Engineer -Spacecraft to own analysis, modeling, verification, and validation of spacecraft dynamic environments and structural responses. This role focuses on random vibration, shock, acoustics, and coupled loads analysis to ensure spacecraft structural integrity and mission success under launch and spaceflight conditions.
You will collaborate with structures, mechanisms, thermal, and systems teams throughout the spacecraft development lifecycle. The level of responsibility, independence, and technical leadership will be scaled according to the candidate's experience.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Core Responsibilities
  • Perform structural dynamics analysis including modal, frequency response, and random vibration simulations of spacecraft structures and components
  • Support definition and verification of dynamic environments (random vibration, shock, and acoustics)
  • Conduct test-analysis correlation using vibration, acoustic, and shock test data
  • Contribute to environmental test planning, instrumentation recommendations, and post-test data review
  • Analyze component-level responses (solar arrays, antennas, mechanisms, payloads) under dynamic loads
  • Deliver clear technical documentation and presentations

Senior-Level Responsibilities (in addition to Core)
  • Independently derive random vibration and shock environments using flight data, SMC-S-016, NASA-SP-8072, numerical simulation and empirical methods
  • Develop and deliver Craig-Bampton reduced-order models in Nastran for coupled loads analysis (CLA) with launch vehicle providers
  • Apply frequency-based substructuring (FBS) to integrate test and analysis models
  • Provide technical guidance and mentoring to junior engineers
  • Lead anomaly resolution and risk reduction activities during integration and test campaigns
  • Interface directly with launch vehicle teams on spacecraft-side CLA requirements

QUALIFICATIONS
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a closely related field
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in spacecraft or launch vehicle structural dynamics
  • Fundamental understanding of structural dynamics principles
  • Demonstrated experience with Craig-Bampton model reduction and coupled loads analysis
  • Proven track record deriving dynamic environments and supporting environmental testing
  • Experience mentoring junior engineers and influencing cross-functional design decisions
  • Proficiency in Nastran/Femap (or equivalent finite element tools)
  • Experience with Python (pandas, numpy, scipy) or MATLAB for data processing and analysis
  • Solid understanding of signal processing concepts (FFT, PSD, filtering, etc.)

Desired
  • Master's degree in Structural Dynamics, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
  • Experience with Wave6, Pyyeti, PyNastran, IMAT, or other specialized dynamics tools
  • Knowledge of launch vehicle interface loads and CLA processes
  • Exposure to frequency-based substructuring (FBS)
  • Familiarity with spacecraft environmental testing (vibration, acoustic, shock)
  • Experience with Git/version control
  • Passion for spaceflight and spacecraft development

Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, educational reimbursement, short term disability, and flexible PTO options.
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on 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.

What Firefly Aerospace employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom