Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis

ltaresearch· Mechanical
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📍 Sunnyvale, CaliforniaFull time💰 USD 150K–190K

About this role

We’re looking for a structures engineer with strong design and analysis fundamentals, someone eager to learn and flexible enough to take on whatever a fast-moving hardware program throws at them. You’ll work in an exciting, fast-paced environment tackling some of the most challenging structural problems in aerospace.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis role at ltaresearch?
The listed salary for this Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis position at ltaresearch is USD 150K–190K. This is an Full time role.
Where is the Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis position at ltaresearch located?
This Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis role at ltaresearch is based in Sunnyvale, California. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis role at ltaresearch full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a Full time position. It is posted as a Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis role in the Mechanical department at ltaresearch.
Which team or department does the Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis at ltaresearch belong to?
This Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis position is part of the Mechanical department at ltaresearch. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis position at ltaresearch?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to ltaresearch's official application portal hosted on lever where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis job at ltaresearch posted?
This Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis position at ltaresearch was posted on Oct 1, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stress Analysis
ltaresearch · 💰 USD 150K–190K
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