Senior Loads and Dynamics Engineer

About the Role

Responsibilities

• Own the vehicle loads as the discipline lead: quasi-static, transient, and dynamic load cases across ground handling, ascent, separation, entry, landing, and reuse.
• Establish the methods, tools, and standards the loads and dynamics discipline works to.
• Build and maintain structural dynamic models (FEM, modal, coupled loads) and reconcile them with test and flight data.
• Define vibration, shock, acoustic, and random-vibe environments for components, mechanisms, and payloads.
• Perform coupled loads analysis (CLA) and integrate propulsion, aero, GNC, and structural inputs into a consistent load set.
• Deliver clear, timely load sets and interface requirements to structures, mechanisms, and propulsion teams.
• Assess flutter, buffet, slosh, and other aeroelastic/coupled dynamic phenomena.
• Support test planning and correlation—modal surveys, static and dynamic test campaigns—and update models from results.
• Investigate anomalies and reconstruct flight loads from telemetry to improve future load predictions.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance across the structures and mechanisms teams.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering field.
• 8+ years of experience in loads, structural dynamics, or vibration analysis for flight hardware or high-performance systems.
• Deep proficiency with finite element modeling and dynamic analysis (modal, transient, frequency response).
• Demonstrated ownership of load cases and environments that drove the structural design of a flight vehicle or major system.
• Proven ability to correlate models against test or flight data and adjust methodology accordingly.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a relevant engineering field.
• Experience with launch vehicles or reusable flight systems.
• Hands-on experience owning coupled loads analysis (CLA) campaigns.
• Familiarity with aeroelasticity (flutter, buffet) and coupled phenomena.
• Experience defining and correlating vibration, shock, and acoustic environments.
• Proficiency with tools such as Adams, LS-DYNA, or equivalent, plus scripting (Python/MATLAB) for load-set processing and automation.
• Experience supporting structural test campaigns and modal surveys.
• Track record of mentoring engineers and setting technical direction without formal authority.

Compensation and Benefits

• The salary range for this position is $95,,000 – $130,000 annually. The actual base salary offered will depend on factors such as job-related skills, experience, qualifications, and internal equity.
• Equity in Cowboy Space Corp.
• Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Paid time off
• 10 paid holidays per calendar year
• Paid parental leave
• Relocation assistance if applicable
• Daily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacks

ITAR Requirements

• Export Control Requirement: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here .

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