Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to operate within the Flight Test team. Candidate will work with ground and flight operations, engineering, and other LTA teams, to develop test plans and direct flight test efforts for our revolutionary large rigid airship flying from Moffett Field in Sunnyvale, CA. We’re looking for an engineer to foster safe, effective flight testing. The Flight Test Engineer will develop test plans and test hazard analyses (THA), draft airship limitations, lead ground and flight tests, perform data analysis, write test reports, and document test results. This position will also contribute to the development and review of the Airship Flight Manual (AFM) and other operational documents by collaborating with multiple teams to provide pertinent information.

Responsibilities Perform structural analysis (static, buckling, and modal) on airframe, gondola, and equipment mount structures using FEA tools (FEMAP/NX Nastran or equivalent)

Develop and maintain finite element models, including mesh generation, load case setup, and post-processing of results

Perform hand calculations to size structures, verify FEA results, and support quick-turn design trades

Size and design structural components and assemblies, from concept sketches through detailed CAD

Correlate analytical models against test data (static load tests, modal surveys, ground vibration testing)

Support design trade studies weighing weight, strength, manufacturability, and cost

Document analysis methodology, assumptions, and results in formal engineering reports

Collaborate with Systems, Avionics, Soft Structures, Materials & Testing, and Manufacturing teams to integrate structural designs with the broader vehicle

Support fabrication, assembly, and test of structural prototypes and hardware

Investigate and resolve structural issues found during build, test, or field operations

Perform joint analysis (bolted, bonded, and welded) to size fasteners, adhesives, and welds and substantiate joint margins

Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field

5+ years of relevant experience in structural design and/or analysis

Hands-on experience with FEA software (e.g., FEMAP, Nastran, ANSYS, or similar)

Highly developed knowledge of structural analysis fundamentals: static strength, buckling, and modal/dynamic analysis

Proficiency with 3D CAD (SolidWorks, NX, or similar)

Experience with joint analysis (bolted, bonded, and/or welded joints)

Scripting/programming experience (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or VBA) to automate analysis and modeling workflows

Must be able to work on-site in Sunnyvale, California

Preferred Qualifications Experience with lighter-than-air, aerospace, or other weight-critical vehicle structures

Experience correlating FEA models to physical test data

Familiarity with composite structures (CFRP) design and analysis

Experience with structural dynamics (modal testing, vibration analysis)

Experience with fatigue analysis and life prediction

Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Experience in a fast-paced startup or low-volume prototype development environment

Familiarity with GD&T and manufacturing drawing standards

What We Offer! Relocation assistance

Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)

Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances

Parental leave

Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays

401(k) matching up to 6%

Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions

Monthly wellness stipend

Monthly cell phone stipend

Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field

Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride

An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields

Compliance Requirements Criminal background check clearance

Drug test clearance wherever applicable

Applicant must be able to obtain a NASA Moffett Federal Airfield AOA Badge

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LTA Research & Exploration welcomes all candidates to apply including those with limited experience. We understand that candidates with a growth mindset and passion for working on the next chapter in aviation advancement can outweigh experience alone. We celebrate diverse origins and journeys and understand their importance in developing new technology. Rooted in our humanitarian mission, we want to serve the entire globe and have a team that represents those we wish to serve.

Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.