Principal Structural Analyst

Job description

A new space race has begun. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build innovative technology that solves the next generation of engineering, manufacturing, and operational challenges for space security and sustainability.

OUR MISSION

The peaceful use of space is essential for continued prosperity on Earth—from communications and finance to navigation and logistics. True Anomaly builds innovative technology at the intersection of spacecraft, software, and AI to enhance the capabilities of the U.S., its allies, and commercial partners. We safeguard global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all.

OUR VALUES

• Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity
• _What would it take?_ We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results
• _It’s the people._ Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together

YOUR MISSION

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the analysis and validation of spacecraft structural systems to ensure survivability and performance under dynamic environments, including launch and on-orbit operations.
• Perform detailed structural dynamics analyses, including modal, harmonic, random vibration, shock, and transient response simulations.
• Develop documentation and best practices across engineering team including modeling tools, process documentation, and analysis templates.
• Develop and validate finite element models (FEMs) of spacecraft structures and subsystems, ensuring accuracy in predicting dynamic behavior.
• Define dynamic testing campaigns, including vibration, shock, and acoustic testing, to verify structural integrity and correlate models with test results.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, thermal, and systems engineering, to ensure dynamic requirements are integrated into the design process.
• Provide expertise in structural dynamics during trade studies, design reviews, and critical decision-making processes.
• Develop launch provider inputs such as Craig Brampton models.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 12+ years of experience in structural dynamics analysis for aerospace, defense, or high-reliability applications.
• Proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as FEMAP/NASTRAN or HyperWorks/OptiStruct.
• Experience in spacecraft dynamic environments, including launch loads, vibration, and shock for rideshare and dedicated launches.
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, fracture mechanics, material properties, and failure modes in aerospace applications.
• Hands-on experience with environmental testing, including random, sine, and sine burst vibration.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 15+ years of experience in structural dynamics analysis for aerospace, defense, or high-reliability applications.
• Thermal and fluid systems analysis experience.
• Mastery of spacecraft-specific structural dynamics challenges, such as coupled loads analysis and dynamic coupling between subsystems.
• Experience working with lightweight structures, composites, and advanced materials.
• Proficiency in CAD tools, such as SolidWorks, for integrating FEMs with detailed spacecraft models.
• Hands-on experience with instrumentation for dynamic testing, including accelerometers, strain gauges, and data acquisition systems.
• Hands-on experience with environmental testing including shock and acoustic tests.

COMPENSATION

• California Base Salary: $205,000-$285,000
• Colorado Base Salary: $195,000-$270,000
• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

Your actual 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, location, and experience.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to maintain or obtain TS//SCI clearance.
• Work Location—while we observe a hybrid work environment, you will need to be onsite as the business needs require. On an average week, you can expect to spend at least 3 days per week in office at one of our Gravity Works facilities.
• Work environment—is in a standard office, working at a desk or in a production factory.
• Physical demands—may include frequent standing, sitting, walking, bending, and lifting or carrying items up to 20lbs.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Hybrid

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.

True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity on any basis protected by applicable state and federal laws. If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us.