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Rocket Lab USA

Senior Space Systems Structural Analyst

Rocket Lab USA, Long Beach, New York, United States

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Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST

Join a world-class team designing the future of spaceflight. Rocket Lab’s Structural & Mechanical Systems team is at the forefront of spacecraft innovation. We drive the design, development, and performance of spacecraft structures, Photon platforms, and mission-critical payload systems. As a Senior Structural Analyst, you’ll play a key role in shaping the structural integrity and performance of our spacecraft. Your work will directly influence the success of space missions, supporting everything from simulation and testing to flight analysis and qualification. RESPONSIBILITIES:

Lead structural analysis of spacecraft and platform components, including composites and metallic structures. Develop and refine finite element models to assess structural performance under static, dynamic, and thermal loads. Analyze flight and test data to define structural environments and validate design margins. Define test requirements, support test execution, and conduct post-processing of structural test data. Specify and review instrumentation for flight and ground testing. Collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to ensure structural solutions are practical and producible. Identify risks, recommend mitigation strategies, and drive continuous structural improvement initiatives. Mentor and support junior engineers in technical development and analysis methodologies. Contribute to the development of documentation, data structures, and processes to support manufacturing and performance improvements. Champion structural excellence from concept development through integration and launch. REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Structural Engineering (or related field). Extensive experience in structural analysis of aerospace or high-performance systems. Strong proficiency in finite element analysis tools. Solid understanding of static, dynamic, and thermal loading conditions in aerospace applications. Demonstrated experience with test data correlation and validation of analytical models. Familiarity with sensor specification and placement for structural testing and in-flight monitoring. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Ability to lead projects independently and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment. NICE TO HAVE:

Experience with composite structure analysis and design. Prior involvement in spacecraft or launch vehicle programs. Hands-on experience with testing, qualification campaigns, or manufacturing support. Experience mentoring junior engineers or leading small technical teams. 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.

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