Structural/Mechanical Engineer

About the role

Stratolaunch is actively seeking a Structural or Mechanical Engineer, with openings for both Level II and Senior Level (Level III) candidates. This position plays a crucial role in the advancement of an air-launched hypersonic flight vehicle program. As part of the team, you will be responsible for the design of various components, conducting analyses, and supporting the manufacturing processes. Your expertise will be essential in improving the structural integrity of the Talon-A hypersonic vehicle and overcoming technical obstacles.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Participate in the design and development of aerospace structural components to ensure optimal performance.
• Perform in-depth analyses and sizing of structural elements, including the creation of margin reports to validate designs.
• Design secondary structures that facilitate the mounting of components effectively.
• Select suitable materials and construction methods to achieve project objectives.
• Generate detailed 3D CAD models for both parts and assemblies to support the design process.
• Collaborate closely with engineering technicians and production teams to fabricate and assemble your designs accurately.
• Tackle technical challenges related to the Talon-A vehicle and its integration with the carrier aircraft.
• Support the Talon-A Structures Lead by offering guidance and mentorship to junior team members.
• Maintain consistent communication with project leads to ensure alignment on goals and progress.
• Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems, ensuring all components work seamlessly together.
• Be prepared to travel as necessary to fulfill company objectives and project requirements.
• Uphold the core values of honesty, integrity, and commitment in all aspects of your work.

Requirements

• Strong ability to analyze designs using hand calculations and finite element methods (FEM).
• Proven experience in 3D CAD modeling of parts and assemblies, demonstrating technical proficiency.
• Familiarity with composite fabrication techniques and manufacturing processes is essential.
• Knowledge of composite tooling methods and their applications in aerospace design.
• Understanding of aerospace fasteners and their specifications to ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Experience with drafting and applying geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) principles.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively articulate technical challenges and solutions to a variety of audiences.
• Capability to work independently while managing multiple priorities in line with business goals.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and project demands.
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance as required for the role.

Nice to have

• A background in aerospace-grade hardware and mechanical design principles would be advantageous.
• Experience with ground test hardware, including the development of engineering definitions and work instructions.
• Familiarity with bonded and wet-tied composite structures is a plus.
• Proficiency in using FEMAP and Nastran for structural analysis.
• Experience in generating loads and designing metallic components for manufacturing.
• Knowledge of planning and executing component-level or subsystem-level tests.
• Experience with static structural testing methodologies.
• An active security clearance would be beneficial for this position.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in CAD software, including NX, CATIA, or Solidworks, to create and modify designs.
• Competent in using the MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) for documentation and communication.

Practical notes

• This position is located in Mojave, CA, a hub for aerospace innovation.
• Travel requirements are minimal, estimated to be less than 5% of the time.
• The base salary for Level II engineers ranges from $101,079 to $146,500, while Level III engineers can expect a salary between $120,500 and $158,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Benefits offered include a 9/80 work schedule, comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, vision, and prescription), paid maternity and parental leave, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match up to $11,500, and tuition reimbursement for continued education.

Stratolaunch is proud to be an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion within the workplace. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Please note that U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions that involve government clearance.