Structural Analysis Lead - Space Vehicle
Englewood, Colorado
Engineering – Space Vehicle Engineering /
Full-time (Regular) /
Hybrid
At ispace U.S., we’re not just going to the Moon—we’re redefining how we get there. Our missions push the boundaries of human and robotic exploration, driven by our belief: “Expand our Planet. Expand our Future.” By providing cost-effective lunar transportation, we are pioneering a future where space is within reach for scientific discovery, commercial ventures, and sustainable exploration.
With locations in Japan, Luxembourg, and the United States, ispace is rapidly growing and leading the way in lunar exploration and development. Our U.S. branch is based in Englewood, Colorado, and focuses on high-capacity payload lunar landers designed to support future lunar missions. Our team is made up of innovators, problem-solvers, and visionaries committed to making space more accessible and fostering the next generation of space exploration.
Let’s go to the Moon together! Our team is growing, and we are actively seeking talented individuals who share our passion for space.
We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated Structural Analysis Lead with a strong background in space vehicles capable of setting the standard for technical success and guiding fellow analysts. The Structural Analysis Lead will play a critical role in the successful development and deployment of our lunar exploration spacecraft, ensuring that our designs meet the rigorous demands of our space missions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide technical leadership and serve as the subject matter expert for the team of analysts.
- Ensure structural design and analysis comply with aerospace standards, safety regulations, and mission requirements.
- Foster a collaborative and innovative culture, emphasizing excellence and continuous improvement in engineering best practices.
- Mentor and develop subsystem team members, enhancing their technical expertise.
- Set the standard for structural analysis efforts, including stress analysis, vibration analysis, and thermal stress considerations.
- Utilize advanced engineering tools and software for finite element analysis (FEA) and computer-aided design (CAD).
- Lead the optimization efforts of spacecraft structural components and assemblies.
- Review and approve technical documentation, including design specifications, analysis reports, and testing procedures related to structures.
- Coordinate with manufacturing teams to ensure the feasibility and quality of structural components.
- Identify and mitigate risks associated with structural design and material selection.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure interfaces are well-defined.
- Develop and implement engineering strategies that enhance our structural design capabilities and align with company goals.
- Stay updated on emerging technologies, materials, and methodologies in spacecraft structures.
- Lead initiatives to improve engineering processes, tools, and best practices in structures design and analysis.
- Contribute to resource estimation and schedule planning efforts.
- Present technical briefings and updates on design progress and challenges to stakeholders.
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field is required. We will consider a combination of education and related experience.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in spacecraft engineering or a related field, with significant focus on structures design and analysis
- Proven track record of analyzing structural components for large scale space vehicles or other aerospace applications that experience extreme loading conditions.
- Understanding of spacecraft structures, including lightweight materials, composites, and advanced manufacturing techniques.
- Proficiency in structural analysis and design software such as NASTRAN, ANSYS, SolidWorks, or similar tools.
- Knowledge of load paths, structural dynamics, fatigue analysis, and failure modes in spacecraft structures.
- Familiarity with other spacecraft systems (propulsion, avionics, thermal, etc.) and their influence on modeling techniques.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail in structural integrity and safety.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline
- Experience identifying and navigating the challenges of a startup environment
- At least 2 years of experience leading technical engineering teams.
Additional Requirements:
- Ability to work in a fast-paced design and development environment
- Schedule may vary depending on program development needs; flexibility required
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required
Compensation and Benefits:
- Health Coverage: Competitive medical, vision, and dental plans, with 100% company-paid options available for employees.
- Hybrid Work: Flexibility to work remotely and in-office, depending on your role and the stage of our program.
- Commuter Perks: Company-paid RTD EcoPass for buses and light rail.
- Lunch Perks: Monthly stipend to enjoy meals from our café.
- Paid Time Off: 18 vacation days, 6 sick days, and 14 paid holidays.
- Retirement: 401(k) plan with company matching.
- Travel: Opportunities for domestic and international travel.
- Stock Options: Participation in our stock option program.
- Learning & Development: Ample opportunities to grow, including lunch-and-learns, skills training, and stipends for professional development.
- Team Culture: A fun and casual environment with regular team gatherings, including monthly TGIF events to connect and unwind.
We welcome candidates with diverse experience levels and evaluate the best fit on an individual basis. Your final job level and salary will be determined based on your skills, experience, and the impact you can bring to the role.
$110,000 - $140,000 a year
#LI-LH1
At ispace, we believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences, even if you don’t meet every listed requirement. If you’re passionate about our mission and think you can contribute, we encourage you to apply. Your unique skills and experiences may be exactly what we need to grow and succeed together.
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. Learn more about the ITAR .here.
ispace is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with ispace is governed on the basis of 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.
All applicants who are offered employment with ispace US will be subject to a background investigation. Offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of a background investigation conducted in accordance with Company policies and all applicable laws.
ispace Technologies, US, Inc. is a drug-free workplace.
ispace Technologies, US, Inc. participates in the E-Verify program.
