Loads and Dynamics Engineer, Satellites

About the role

This position is dedicated to ensuring the structural integrity and performance of Starlink satellites throughout the rigorous phases of transportation, launch, and orbital operations in the space environment. The hire will own the analysis and mitigation of vibration, shock, and other forcing functions that act upon the satellite structure during these critical phases. You will be responsible for managing the full lifecycle of dynamic testing, which includes initial analysis planning, instrumentation and sensor setup, test execution, and subsequent data processing. A core part of the role involves developing and maintaining internal tools and databases that support satellite development and test program efficiency. The position requires creating and updating finite element models to accurately represent satellite hardware and predicting dynamic behavior. You will also develop new code and leverage existing in-house or commercial software for analysis and simulation purposes. Additional responsibilities include conducting supplementary evaluations related to dynamics, such as fatigue, stress, and ensuring satellite brightness constraints are met. The role demands close collaboration with cross-functional teams to resolve dynamics challenges and verify that satellite hardware meets all performance and safety requirements.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Address complex dynamics challenges by applying testing and analytical methods to satellite hardware.
• Manage the full lifecycle of dynamic testing, encompassing initial analysis, sensor placement, data acquisition, and model correlation.
• Create detailed finite element models that accurately simulate satellite dynamic response and structural behavior.
• Develop new code and utilize existing in-house or commercial software for analysis, simulation, and data processing.
• Conduct supplementary evaluations including fatigue, stress, and satellite brightness assessments to ensure compliance.
• Interpret test data and simulation results to identify root causes of dynamic issues and recommend design improvements.
• Support the development and maintenance of internal tools and databases that manage test programs and satellite dynamics data.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to integrate dynamics requirements into satellite designs.
• Ensure all dynamic analysis and testing activities adhere to company standards and regulatory requirements.
• Drive the correlation between test results and analytical models to increase confidence in satellite launch and orbital performance.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers within the Starlink satellite team.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of testing processes and methodologies for satellite dynamics.
• Support the qualification and acceptance testing of satellites to meet mission assurance criteria.
• Analyze launch and orbital deployment dynamics to validate satellite survivability and functionality.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor degree in mathematics, physics, or an engineering field.
• Demonstrate the ability to work extended hours and weekends to meet aggressive project deadlines.
• Must meet ITAR requirements: U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
• Possess the capability to understand and apply dynamics principles to satellite hardware.
• Show willingness to learn and utilize specialized analysis software and tools.
• Exhibit strong attention to detail when managing test data and model correlations.
• Display the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven engineering environment.
• Have the capacity to communicate technical findings clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Nice to have

• Minimum 1 year of professional experience in dynamics.
• Practical background in hardware assembly or data analysis.
• Proficiency with vibration and shock testing methodologies and equipment.
• Experience using NASTRAN and FEMAP for finite element modeling and analysis.
• Understanding of structural stability, strength, and fatigue failure mechanisms in satellite components.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective team collaboration.

Skills & tools

• NASTRAN
• FEMAP
• Finite element modeling
• Signal processing
• Software programming

Practical notes

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Compensation: Level I ($100,000 - $115,000 per year); Level II ($110,000 - $135,000 per year)

• Benefits include medical, vision, dental, 401(k), life insurance, disability coverage, and paid parental leave
• Total rewards may include company stock, stock options, long-term cash awards, and discretionary bonuses
• Includes 3 weeks of paid vacation, 10+ paid holidays, and accrued sick time
• Company shuttles available between select Seattle locations and the Redmond office
• SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer