Opterus Research and Development, Inc.
Senior Structural Analyst
Opterus Research and Development, Inc., Loveland, Colorado, United States, 80538
About Opterus Research and Development
Opterus is a fast-growing provider of critical spacecraft components and deployable structures established in 2018. We transform the aerospace and defense industry by helping partners accomplish more in space with less. Opterus combines patented high-strain composites with origami principles to design and manufacture high-performance rollable booms, RF structures, solar arrays, and other next-generation structures and systems. We are looking for a motivated team player to join us in making the future unfold in space.
Position Overview As a Senior Structural Analyst, you will be a key contributor in our analysis group, performing advanced finite element modeling, simulation, and analysis to support the design, development, and flight-qualification of next-generation deployable space structures. This senior-level role requires deep expertise in FEA tools and methodologies, strong analytical problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams. Opterus is motivated to start the right person in this role by November 4, 2025, although we remain flexible and willing to accommodate alternative start dates.
Responsibilities
Develop, refine, and execute advanced finite element models for aerospace structures, with emphasis on nonlinear, dynamic, and composite material behavior
Analyze structural performance for a range of load cases to qualify for space flight, including thermal, vibration, shock, and deployment dynamics
Collaborate closely with design, manufacturing, and test engineers to ensure structural integrity and performance requirements (flight qualification) are met
Support structural design trade studies, optimization, and material selection
Validate models through correlation with test data and physical prototypes
Document and present analysis results to internal design teams, project stakeholders, and external customers
Apply engineering principles to provide input on design improvements and identify associated risks
Mentor junior analysts and provide technical guidance on modeling best practices and standards
Other related duties as assigned
Qualifications
BS in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related discipline; MS or PhD preferred
6+ years of experience performing advanced finite element analysis for spaceflight hardware or similar high-performance structures
Proficiency with analysis and engineering tools such as Abaqus, NASTRAN, ANSYS, SolidWorks (CAD), Mathematica, and Python
Strong understanding of composite materials, structural dynamics, GD&T, and nonlinear analysis
Preferably an understanding of space flight standards, such as GEVS, Rideshare Payload User’s Guide, NASA-STD 5002, 6016 & 7009A
Strong communication skills (oral, written, and presentation)
Team-oriented with the ability to be a self-starter and work independently
Fluency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams, etc.)
US citizen or permanent resident
Compensation and Benefits
Salary range of $120,000 - $160,000, based on experience and qualifications
Flexible and hybrid work schedules: 9/80 or 10/80 schedules, with two or more days in office
Opterus pays 100% of employees’ premiums and 70% of dependents’ premiums
Medical, Dental, Vision, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, Life and AD&D insurances
401K matching up to 4%
9 paid holidays
Work within a community-oriented environment at Forge Campus. Amenities include an onsite restaurant, brewery, coffee shop, and multiple shared outdoor spaces
Are you missing qualifications or feeling overqualified? Opterus values diverse experiences, and we believe that everyone has unique strengths to offer. If you are passionate about learning, inspired by innovation, or enjoy dynamic roles, we want to hear from you!
Opterus Research and Development is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
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Position Overview As a Senior Structural Analyst, you will be a key contributor in our analysis group, performing advanced finite element modeling, simulation, and analysis to support the design, development, and flight-qualification of next-generation deployable space structures. This senior-level role requires deep expertise in FEA tools and methodologies, strong analytical problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams. Opterus is motivated to start the right person in this role by November 4, 2025, although we remain flexible and willing to accommodate alternative start dates.
Responsibilities
Develop, refine, and execute advanced finite element models for aerospace structures, with emphasis on nonlinear, dynamic, and composite material behavior
Analyze structural performance for a range of load cases to qualify for space flight, including thermal, vibration, shock, and deployment dynamics
Collaborate closely with design, manufacturing, and test engineers to ensure structural integrity and performance requirements (flight qualification) are met
Support structural design trade studies, optimization, and material selection
Validate models through correlation with test data and physical prototypes
Document and present analysis results to internal design teams, project stakeholders, and external customers
Apply engineering principles to provide input on design improvements and identify associated risks
Mentor junior analysts and provide technical guidance on modeling best practices and standards
Other related duties as assigned
Qualifications
BS in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related discipline; MS or PhD preferred
6+ years of experience performing advanced finite element analysis for spaceflight hardware or similar high-performance structures
Proficiency with analysis and engineering tools such as Abaqus, NASTRAN, ANSYS, SolidWorks (CAD), Mathematica, and Python
Strong understanding of composite materials, structural dynamics, GD&T, and nonlinear analysis
Preferably an understanding of space flight standards, such as GEVS, Rideshare Payload User’s Guide, NASA-STD 5002, 6016 & 7009A
Strong communication skills (oral, written, and presentation)
Team-oriented with the ability to be a self-starter and work independently
Fluency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams, etc.)
US citizen or permanent resident
Compensation and Benefits
Salary range of $120,000 - $160,000, based on experience and qualifications
Flexible and hybrid work schedules: 9/80 or 10/80 schedules, with two or more days in office
Opterus pays 100% of employees’ premiums and 70% of dependents’ premiums
Medical, Dental, Vision, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, Life and AD&D insurances
401K matching up to 4%
9 paid holidays
Work within a community-oriented environment at Forge Campus. Amenities include an onsite restaurant, brewery, coffee shop, and multiple shared outdoor spaces
Are you missing qualifications or feeling overqualified? Opterus values diverse experiences, and we believe that everyone has unique strengths to offer. If you are passionate about learning, inspired by innovation, or enjoy dynamic roles, we want to hear from you!
Opterus Research and Development is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
#J-18808-Ljbffr