Structural Test Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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.

SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST I/II

Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) customers. Our vision is to revolutionize the space-based payload market with innovative and novel designs for space, terrestrial, and airborne environments. Building on more than 20 years of electro-optical and infrared systems innovation from Geost, Optical Systems delivers solutions to the warfighter for responsive, scalable sensing solutions across all orbital domains.

As a Senior Structural Analyst I/II based at our Optical Systems site in Chantilly, VA, you will have the opportunity to support multiple advanced space payload and IRAD programs. In this role you will contribute to technical programs across all phases, and be an integral part of the design, development, build, and test of flight hardware. To be successful in this role, you must bring curiosity, adaptability, a passion for teamwork, and keen attention to detail. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Structural Analyst I or Senior Structural Analyst II level)

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Perform structural analysis of spacecraft components and assemblies using analytical methods and finite element analysis (FEA) tools
• Develop and validate analytical models to predict structural behavior under integration, test, launch, operational conditions
• Evaluate static, dynamic, thermal, and fatigue loads to ensure compliance with design requirements and safety margins
• Collaborate with design engineers to optimize structures for weight, manufacturability, and performance
• Support the development of test plans and interpret structural test data to correlate and validate analysis models
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations to communicate analysis results and recommendations
• Participate in design reviews and provide structural engineering input throughout the product development lifecycle
• Stay current with industry standards, materials, and analysis techniques
• Contribute to continuous improvement of analysis processes, tools, and best practices.
• Use investigative and trouble-shooting skills to assess issues and develop resolutions in the lab
• Work proactively to complete tasks with some modest direction
• Communicate effectively with direct supervisor, project management, customers, and team members across disciplines
• Significantly contribute to program and customer meetings and reviews
• Support travel as required, including working off-site

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST I:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 5+ year of experience in mechanical structural analysis
• Superior computer skills and experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Femap/NASTRAN, etc.)
• Ability to write clear and comprehensive technical documentation
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST II:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 8+ years of experience in mechanical structural analysis
• Superior computer skills and experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Femap/NASTRAN, etc.)
• Ability to write clear and comprehensive technical documentation
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with mechanism design
• Experience with materials engineering and processes
• Experience with environmental testing
• Experience with SolidWorks or NX
• Experience in implementation and understanding of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing
• Experience as an REA (Responsible Engineering Authority) or familiarity with documentation process controls
• Experience with mechanical design associated with optical and electro-optical systems
• Hands-on expertise with optical systems, telescope systems, laser systems, and/or space systems
• Experience designing optical mounts for use in various demanding applications and environments
• Team player who incorporates a team-based success philosophy and seeks mentorship

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.