Spacecraft Structural Engineer

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Spacecraft Structural Engineer to support U.S. Space Force in Broomfield, CO. The customer is seeking an individual with expertise across spacecraft requirements gathering and structural design, to support a surge effort for departments Space and Mission Systems division.

Location: Broomfield, CO (100% on-site)

This job opens for applications on 3/17/2026. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date

Responsibilities of the Structural Engineer:

• Conduct structural analyses of advanced satellite and tactical systems, including spacecraft, instruments, antennas, electronics, precision mechanisms, optical systems, and ground support equipment.
• Execute a wide range of structural analysis activities such as detailed stress analysis using closed-form methods and finite element techniques, structural dynamics and loads analysis, preparation of comprehensive engineering reports, development of structural test requirements, and support of structural and vibration testing
• Contribute to the mechanical design of new spacecraft structures across the full lifecycle, from proposal and contract award through detailed design, fabrication, assembly, testing, and requirements verification.
• Develop CAD models and perform design and analysis activities to ensure compliance with technical requirements.
• Support requirements development, design for manufacturing (DFM), design for test (DFT), and formal requirements verification.
• Proactively identify, communicate, and manage technical risks and opportunities.
• Provide technical oversight and guidance for spacecraft design-related subcontracts.
• Define, maintain, refine, and verify structural requirements to ensure alignment with system-level and subsystem requirements and interfaces.

Qualifications of the Structural Engineer:

• BS degree or higher in Mechanical, Civil, or Aerospace Engineering, or a related field, with coursework in statics, dynamics, strength of materials, and linear algebra is required.
• 10 or more years of experience performing structural analysis of aerospace-related hardware including stress analysis and structural dynamics is required. Preferably in electro-optical payloads.
• Previous experience in the following areas is preferred: structural analysis to support electronics and tactical antennas, bond analysis, composites and other non-traditional materials, structural dynamics.
• Proficiency with MS Office tools.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Proficiency in the use of NASTRAN finite element analysis including static, modal, frequency response is required.
• Proficiency in the use of FEMAP or SIMCENTER or similar finite element pre/post processing software is preferred.
• Proficiency in the use of SolidWorks is highly preferred.
• Programming experience with MATLAB or at least one other scientific programming language is preferred

Compensation for the Structural Engineer:

• Total compensation based on experience level - $130,000-$160,000+ **based on degree and total years of experience**
• Full Benefits: PTO/Holidays, Medical, Dental, and Vision, 401k with ADP

#LI-MK1 #LI-Onsite

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