At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and analyse spacecraft structures for exciting VLEO satellite missions.
- Company: Join a pioneering aerospace company pushing the boundaries of space exploration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on innovation and career advancement.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking projects that shape the future of space technology.
- Qualifications: Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Structural Engineering with relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are seeking a Structural Engineer to support the design, analysis, testing, and qualification of structures for our VLEO satellite missions.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform structural analysis of flight hardware including spacecraft structures, propulsion subsystems, and mechanical assemblies. This includes static, modal, random vibration, sine, shock, and quasi‑static load cases.
- Develop and validate finite element models (FEM) for spacecraft and high‑performance aerospace structures.
- Perform hand calculations for preliminary analysis in support of FEA.
- Support structural sizing, stiffness optimisation, and load path analysis for launch and in‑orbit environments.
- Plan and execute vibration, shock, and structural qualification testing test campaigns end‑to‑end: write the test plan, instrument the hardware, interpret the data, correlate the model, and close out the qualification report.
- Instrument hardware using accelerometers and strain gauges, and correlate test results back to analytical models.
- Review engineering drawings and collaborate directly with designers to drive structural design decisions.
- Support qualification activities against relevant aerospace and space standards including GEVS, ECSS, and NASA requirements.
- Contribute to structural verification activities across development, integration, and test phases.
- Confidence reading and reviewing engineering drawings and working directly with design engineers on structural decisions.
Qualifications
- Education: B.S. or M.S. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field.
- 3+ years of structural analysis experience on flight hardware, including spacecraft, launch vehicles, missiles, or high‑performance structures.
- Experience with structural analysis of spacecraft structures and subsystems, including electronic boxes, propulsion systems, hydraulics, or solar panels.
- Experience with design for manufacturing (DFM).
- Hands‑on experience with FEM and ability to justify modelling assumptions and approaches.
- Experience with Altair OptiStruct is a strong plus; proficiency with industry‑standard solvers such as NASTRAN, ANSYS, or Abaqus is required.
- Familiarity with launch environments including random vibration PSDs, SRS shock spectra, and quasi‑static load factors.
- Practical experience supporting environmental testing, including instrumentation with accelerometers and strain gauges and model correlation activities.
Nice‑to‑haves
- Experience with analysis of composite materials.
- Experience with material testing, metallic and composites.
Spacecraft Structural Engineer — VLEO Missions in Reading employer: microTECH Global LTD
As a leading aerospace company, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment where Structural Engineers can thrive. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology in the VLEO satellite missions. Located in a vibrant area, we offer competitive benefits and a culture that values creativity and teamwork, making us an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful contributions to space exploration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Spacecraft Structural Engineer — VLEO Missions in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the aerospace field, especially those who work with spacecraft structures. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections and learn about potential job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your structural analysis projects, FEM models, and any hands-on testing you've done. This will give you an edge during interviews and demonstrate your practical experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get ready for technical interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of structural analysis methods and aerospace standards. Be prepared to discuss your experience with tools like NASTRAN or ANSYS.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We have exciting opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you a better chance to stand out. Don’t miss out on your dream job in VLEO missions!
We think you need these skills to ace Spacecraft Structural Engineer — VLEO Missions in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in structural analysis and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise in spacecraft structures and FEM.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about VLEO missions and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. We love hearing personal stories that connect your experience to our mission.
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When filling out your application, make sure to mention your hands-on experience with tools like NASTRAN, ANSYS, or Abaqus. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how you’ve used these in past projects!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at microTECH Global LTD
✨Know Your Structural Analysis Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your structural analysis skills, especially related to spacecraft structures and propulsion subsystems. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've performed static, modal, or vibration analysis, and how you approached those challenges.
✨Familiarise Yourself with FEM Tools
Since experience with finite element modelling is crucial, ensure you're comfortable discussing your hands-on experience with tools like Altair OptiStruct, NASTRAN, or ANSYS. Prepare to explain your modelling assumptions and how they impacted your results.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that dive deep into your knowledge of aerospace standards like GEVS, ECSS, and NASA requirements. Have examples ready that showcase your understanding of these standards and how you've applied them in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Collaboration with design engineers is key in this role. Be prepared to share experiences where you’ve worked closely with designers to drive structural decisions. Highlight any instances where your input significantly influenced the project outcome.
