Position: Spacecraft Structural Engineering Architect

Employment Type

Part-Time

Location

Chicago, IL

Duration

Ongoing

Our corporate culture is very important to us. Please ask about it when applying, as we haven't posted this information in a public domain just yet!

About reOrbital:

reOrbital is a NewSpace startup building the world’s first scalable microgravity manufacturing platform. After taking 2nd place in UChicago’s New Venture Challenge, reOrbital joined Cohort #3 of the globally-recognized Duality Quantum Accelerator.

Job Description:

We are seeking an experienced structural systems architect to help us tackle one of the industry’s hardest spacecraft structural engineering challenges. Our unique architecture requires innovative and efficient structure to handle the complex expected environments and high reusability of our architecture. No two days will be the same as you create clean sheet designs to push the envelope of spacecraft structural design and qualification methodology.

Responsibilities:

Working closely with our CEO and COO, you will:

  • Develop structural designs, models, and analysis of the spacecraft structure and other subsystems.

  • Perform structural design, optimization, testing, and verification.

  • Collaborate with other engineers and stakeholders to ensure the spacecraft meets the mission requirements and standards.

  • Support the fabrication, integration, and launch of the spacecraft.

  • Perform the planning and execution of structure development including schedule, requirements, status, and budget.

  • Execute first order sizing and strength calculations on spacecraft architecture.

  • Conduct mass optimization and requalifying designs as needed.

A successful candidate will:

  • Have a demonstrated experience designing, building, and evaluating structural systems for complex space applications.

  • Have experience conducting trade studies to optimize for cost, reliability, and performance.

  • Have direct experience developing hardware with flight heritage.

  • Draw from experience outside the traditional satellite industry such as aviation, automotive, or defense.

Qualifications / Skills:

Basic:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Structural Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

  • 5+ years of direct CAD experience (e.g. Solidworks, NX) working on complex aerospace designs.

  • Proficiency in structural analysis software using finite element analysis (FEA).

  • Robust knowledge of spacecraft design standards and best practices.


Preferred:

  • Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in mechanical engineering or related field.

  • Strong knowledge of dynamic and fatigue loads/failures.

  • Moderate knowledge of spacecraft thermal engineering.