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Structural Analyst

Planet
San Francisco, California
Full Time
Posted November 24, 2025
$128k - $161k
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Job Description

The role involves performing structural analysis of spacecraft subsystems for Planet's Earth-imaging satellite fleet, including finite element modeling, testing, and collaboration with design and manufacturing teams to ensure structural integrity and performance.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform structural analysis of spacecraft subsystems using finite element analysis and hand calculations
  • Drive documentation and presentation of design trade studies and models
  • Collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to ensure structural requirements are met
  • Manage vendors to ensure components meet performance and survival requirements
  • Support development of environmental requirements and test planning for spacecraft components
  • Conduct testing, hardware analysis, and model validation for spacecraft structures

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Mechanical Engineering or other related engineering or science degree
  • At least 4 years of structural analysis experience in aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, or related fields
  • Experience performing structural analysis using classical hand calculations and analysis of mechanical joints including bolted joints and bonded joints
  • Proficiency in using Finite Element Software Solvers, with NASTRAN preferred
  • Experience generating high-quality Finite Element Models (FEMs)
  • Experience using computer-aided design (CAD) software
  • Ability to set up models and analyze components for static and modal analysis
  • Excellent understanding of strength of materials and common structural failure modes
  • Application of analysis methods to meet stiffness, strength, and performance requirements
  • Experience managing vendors to ensure components meet survival and performance requirements
  • Support development of Interface Control Documents (ICDs) to generate survival environments and requirements for spacecraft subsystems
  • Drive test planning and qualification campaigns
  • Support debugging and root-causing tests for on-orbit anomalies
  • Hands-on experience with flight and test hardware, including hardware assembly, testing with Instron machines, machine shop work, and vibration testing
  • Application of Structural Thermo-Optical Performance (STOP) analysis
  • Ability to analyze dynamic environments, including random sine vibration environments
  • Experience generating test specifications for dynamic environments such as random sine vibration
  • Experience presenting analysis results in design reviews
  • Understanding of the export-controlled information requirements and ability to access all applicable export-controlled information without additional export licensing being required
  • Willingness to work full-time in-office at the San Francisco location, 5 days per week

Benefits & Perks

Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans
Health Savings Account (HSA) with a company contribution
Generous Paid Time Off in addition to holidays and company-wide days off
16 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave
Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Home Office Reimbursement
Monthly Phone and Internet Reimbursement
Tuition Reimbursement and access to LinkedIn Learning
Equity
Commuter Benefits if local to an office
Volunteering Paid Time Off
Discretionary short-term and long-term incentives bonus and equity (role-dependent)
Salary range of $128,400 - $160,500 USD (dependent on experience, skills, and location)

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