Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to operate within the Flight Test team. Candidate will work with ground and flight operations, engineering, and other LTA teams, to develop test plans and direct flight test efforts for our revolutionary large rigid airship flying from Moffett Field in Sunnyvale, CA. We’re looking for an engineer to foster safe, effective flight testing. The Flight Test Engineer will develop test plans and test hazard analyses (THA), draft airship limitations, lead ground and flight tests, perform data analysis, write test reports, and document test results. This position will also contribute to the development and review of the Airship Flight Manual (AFM) and other operational documents by collaborating with multiple teams to provide pertinent information.

Perform structural analysis (static, buckling, and modal) on airframe, gondola, and equipment mount structures using FEA tools (FEMAP/NX Nastran or equivalent) Develop and maintain finite element models, including mesh generation, load case setup, and post-processing of results Perform hand calculations to size structures, verify FEA results, and support quick-turn design trades Size and design structural components and assemblies, from concept sketches through detailed CAD Correlate analytical models against test data (static load tests, modal surveys, ground vibration testing) Support design trade studies weighing weight, strength, manufacturability, and cost Document analysis methodology, assumptions, and results in formal engineering reports Collaborate with Systems, Avionics, Soft Structures, Materials & Testing, and Manufacturing teams to integrate structural designs with the broader vehicle Support fabrication, assembly, and test of structural prototypes and hardware Investigate and resolve structural issues found during build, test, or field operations Perform joint analysis (bolted, bonded, and welded) to size fasteners, adhesives, and welds and substantiate joint margins

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field 5+ years of relevant experience in structural design and/or analysis Hands-on experience with FEA software (e.g., FEMAP, Nastran, ANSYS, or similar) Highly developed knowledge of structural analysis fundamentals: static strength, buckling, and modal/dynamic analysis Proficiency with 3D CAD (SolidWorks, NX, or similar) Experience with joint analysis (bolted, bonded, and/or welded joints) Scripting/programming experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or VBA) to automate analysis and modeling workflows Must be able to work on-site in Sunnyvale, California

Experience with lighter-than-air, aerospace, or other weight-critical vehicle structures Experience correlating FEA models to physical test data Familiarity with composite structures (CFRP) design and analysis Experience with structural dynamics (modal testing, vibration analysis) Experience with fatigue analysis and life prediction Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering Experience in a fast-paced startup or low-volume prototype development environment Familiarity with GD&T and manufacturing drawing standards

Relocation assistance Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents) Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances Parental leave Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays 401(k) matching up to 6% Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions Monthly wellness stipend Monthly cell phone stipend Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields

Criminal background check clearance Drug test clearance wherever applicable Applicant must be able to obtain a NASA Moffett Federal Airfield AOA Badge

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