New

4562 Structural Mechanical Engineer

Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory
United States, Utah, North Logan
Aug 07, 2025
Job ID: 4562 The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer to perform detailed design and analysis of space hardware and subsystems. The successful candidate will be able to immediately begin work on new projects, establish and document requirements, and work closely with small and large engineering teams to turn ideas into working hardware. The nature of the work is rewarding, and employees feel a sense of accomplishment from working on projects from concept through design, implementation, test, and delivery. The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation's defense capabilities. Key Responsibilities: Performs structural and dynamic analyses to support the mechanical design evolution of spacecraft and components (FEMAP/Hypermesh/NASTRAN preferred) Mechanical design/analysis of optical payloads and spacecraft designs Works with machine shop and vendors for hardware fabrication Laboratory prototyping, assembly, and testing Leads, mentors, and collaborates with other Engineers, both internally and externally Manages schedule and tasking to meet and exceed expectations Communicates effectively through written reports and presentations Performs first order layout and mass properties analyses Supports structural qualification testing on spacecraft systems and components including test design, test conduct, and interface equipment for unit under test Develops and documents required design processes Required Qualifications: A BS in applicable technical field (e.g., mechanical engineering) 5+ years of relevant experience Proficiency in the use of computer-aided design tools (NX, Solid Edge preferred) Experience designing and executing structural tests for spacecraftand components Experience writing technical plans and procedures Demonstrated ability of successfully working with and collaborating with teams of Engineers Ability to communicate clearly with personnel of varying technical and professional backgrounds including building presentation slides Demonstrated experience performing layout, mass properties, structural, and dynamic analyses for spacecraft or similar systems Proven ability to design and execute structural tests for spacecraft or other complex systems Must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain US Government Security Clearance Must be able to travel on a regular basis and work off-site for extended periods of time Preferred Qualifications: MS in mechanical engineering 10-15 years of relevant experience Experience designing for space environment Experience in mechanical design of optical instruments, thermal vacuum cryogenic tests Ability to work in a laboratory environment with precision optical elements and instruments Mechanism experience (flexures, motors, dampers, hinges, deployment, etc.) Experience in thermal and structural/dynamics analysis Experience in opto-mechanical design of optical instruments Experience with Structural/Thermal/Optical/Performance (STOP) analysis Composites, design/analysis/manufacturing-based experience TS/SCI security clearance Salary Range $91,000 - $140,000 Salary commensurate based on education and relevant experience This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate's preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process. Why Join SDL?* SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page* to learn more about what we offer. SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success. At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners. For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.