Structural Analyst II / Senior Structural Analyst I

ABOUT ROCKET LAB 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 to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.   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. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.  NEUTRON  Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. STRUCTURAL ANALYST II / SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST I  The Structural Analyst position is based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA. The candidate will support a high performing team of propulsion engineers with a broad range of expertise covering rocket engine combustion devices, turbomachinery, and other hardware. You will support the Neutron program and Propulsion department with solutions to tough technical problems and drive the vehicle design using analytical methods.   Please note: this position can be hired at the Structural Analyst II or Senior Structural Analyst I level.   WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:     Create system, subassemblies, and individual parts analytical models.  Perform multiphysics structural, thermal, vibration, fatigue, and fracture analyses.  Collaborate with the design team to finalize hardware designs to meet vehicle requirements.   Generate and maintain clear documentation of all performed analyses, including inputs, methods, and results to ensure proper communication during hardware reviews and qualification.  Support stage, engine and sub-system testing through data review and provide recommendations based on data and analysis.   Develop standard practices for structural analysis and common hand calculations to expedite hardware development.  Provide continued direction to the engineering team on highest value analysis and results deliverable schedule as the program evolves.   QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS STRUCTURAL ANALYST II:      Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related field. 2+ years of experience performing thermal, structural and vibration analysis for aerospace hardware.  Strong foundation in thermal, structural, vibration and life assessment analysis best practices.  Strong foundation in ductile and brittle material failure theories.  Familiarity with instrumenting hardware using strain gauges, thermocouples, and accelerometers to anchor FEM results. Proficiency in finite element analysis using commercially available software packages. Proficiency using one or more of the following programming languages: Python, Matlab, VBA, and/or C++   QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST I:     Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related field. 5+ years of experience performing thermal, structural and vibration analysis for aerospace hardware.  Mastery in thermal, structural, vibration and life assessment analysis best practices.  Mastery in ductile and brittle material failure theories.  Prior experience instrumenting hardware using strain gauges, thermocouples, and accelerometers to anchor FEM results.  Proficiency in finite element analysis using commercially available software packages. Proficiency using one or more of the following programming languages: Python, Matlab, VBA, and/or C++   THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:     Graduate degree with 3+ years of experience. Proficiency using ANSYS Workbench and NASGRO.  Familiarity with liquid engine qualification and certification using NASA-STDs 5012, 5019  Prior experience analyzing rocket engine combustion devices and turbo pump components.  Experience with supporting failure investigations  Experience with additively manufactured materials, part design and analysis  Experience working in a fast-paced development program     ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:   Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.   Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.   Must be physically able to commute to buildings  Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.   Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab.  Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsi