Structural Technologies Section Manager

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments. The Structures Department within the Structural Mechanics Subdivision, Vehicle Systems Division, is seeking a well-qualified individual with a strong foundation in solid mechanics, practical experience in structural analysis using both hand calculations and finite element analysis techniques, a passion for the space industry, and a desire to apply their expertise to help solve a variety of technical challenges. As the Structural Technologies Section Manager , you will lead a newly formed team focused on advanced structural analysis, AI/ML integration, tool development, and emerging technologies. You will oversee a technical team who provide direct space and launch vehicle program support while also developing methodologies and automation tools to improve efficiency, accuracy, and technical leadership across the department. This position is based in El Segundo, CA., requiring at least 4 days onsite. What You’ll Be Doing Lead a team of analysis specialists providing direct support to launch vehicle and spacecraft programs requiring expertise in nonlinear material behavior, explicit dynamics, progressive damage modeling, and coupled multi-physics analysis Work with program offices to identify complex structural challenges requiring advanced methodologies including plasticity, progressive damage, probabilistic analysis, and uncertainty quantification Direct staff effort to conduct independent advanced analyses, develop innovative solutions, and provide technical consultation to hardware sections across the department Review and sanction the development and implementation of cutting-edge analysis methodologies, including AI/ML integration, additive manufacturing qualification, and structural optimization techniques Oversee the development and maintenance of in-house codes, automation tools, and workflow improvements that enhance department-wide efficiency and accuracy Utilize project management tools (e.g., JIRA) for tracking and prioritization of tasking Provide embedded analyst support to other sections for complex program problems, troubleshooting models, and advanced FEM techniques Foster the development and delivery of training programs on advanced analysis methods, probabilistic techniques, explicit dynamics, AI/ML, and emerging technologies Create technical memoranda, best practice guides, and validation documentation to disseminate knowledge across the department Conduct line management functions including staffing, mentoring, establishing technical direction and standards, allocating staff support, performing administrative duties, and communicating with upper management regarding technical and programmatic issues Develop staff by increasing their technical/functional abilities and knowledge through challenging work assignments, mentoring, training opportunities, and regularly providing high-quality feedback Build a collaborative culture that balances technical excellence with program responsiveness, while maintaining innovation focus Manage workload prioritization and capacity planning to meet competing demands from multiple programs and development initiatives What You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements: Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, engineering mechanics, or related STEM field 5 years of experience in structural design, finite element analysis, and test methodologies Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain excellent working relations with customers and contractor personnel Proven ability to lead cross-discipline technical teams and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment Demonstrated ability to clearly present complex technical assessments to senior and customer leadership Capability to manage and triage multiple high-priority tasks This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance. How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: Advanced degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, engineering mechanics, or related STEM field 8 years of experience in structural design, finite element analysis, and test methodologies Demonstrated project, program, and people leadership experience Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., JIRA, Confluence, etc.) Demonstrated ability in applied engineering principles (i.e., direct launch or space vehicle hardware experience) Expertise in finite element analysis techniques, material characterization, and structural test techniques Experience in developing risk assessments for space and launch vehicles Expertise in explicit dynamic analysis (LS-DYNA, Abaqus/Explicit) for impact, blast, or collision scenarios Experience with AI/ML applications in engineering Knowledge of metallic and/or composite progressive damage analysis, including development or validation of models Background in additive manufacturing qualification, including design for AM, topology optimization, and property development Experience with in-house code development, including Abaqus/Nastran user subroutines Knowledge of structural optimization techniques (topology, size, shape optimization) Knowledge of structural standards (AIAA S-110, NASA-STD-5020, SMC-S-016, etc.) Active TS and/or SCI security clearance We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. (Min - Max) $134,200.00 - $201,300.00 Pay Basis: Annual Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who: Operate Strategically Lead Change Engage with Impact Foster Innovation Deliver Results Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits. Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include: Comprehensive health care and wellness plans Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire Flexible spending accounts Variable pay program for exceptional contributions Relocation assistance Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career Education assistance programs An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation. Equal Opportunity Commitment The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal .