Senior Structural Engineer Uk Visa Sponsorship

Job Description

Senior Structural Analysis Engineer

Location: Astroscale UK, Harwell, UK

Astroscale UK is seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Stress Analysis Engineer with a strong background in space, aerospace, or other technical industries to join our state-of-the-art facility in Harwell, UK. This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a growing, dynamic company, where you will work within a skilled, friendly team committed to addressing the global challenge of orbital debris.

As a key member of the analysis team, you will lead structural analysis efforts, support project activities, and contribute to spacecraft design and development. You will provide technical expertise throughout the design, testing, and operational phases of spacecraft, collaborating across engineering functions and working with suppliers globally.

In this role, you will make a significant contribution to addressing the issue of orbital debris, helping ensure the sustainability of space operations for future generations.

Responsibilities:

• Perform stress and structural analysis at the spacecraft, sub-system, and equipment levels.
• Evaluate analysis and test data to support spacecraft and ground support structure qualification.
• Justify the structural integrity of prototype and flight components throughout all load cycles.
• Prepare test predictions for static and dynamic testing.
• Communicate design recommendations to the Design Team and other subsystems.
• Effectively manage and communicate with stakeholders.
• Prepare, review, and present analysis work and conclusions.
• Ensure thorough documentation of analysis, making files and conclusions traceable and repeatable.
• Peer-review the analysis work of other team members.
• Deliver high-quality work within agreed timelines to support Astroscale’s mission goals.

Essential Skills:

• 3-5 years of experience in stress and structural analysis, preferably in the space industry.
• Proficient in structural calculations for metallics, sandwich panels, inserts, and bolted joints based on established standards and handbooks.
• Experience in creating, verifying, and maintaining Finite Element Models at the spacecraft and component levels.
• Expertise in static analysis, frequency response, random vibration, and shock analysis.
• Demonstrable experience with FEA software packages (e.g., NASTRAN, Hyperworks, Femap, Abaqus, or Ansys).
• Experience with data post-processing using automation tools (e.g., VBA, Python).
• Ability to produce clear documentation and presentations to communicate the analysis process and conclusions.
• Confidence in presenting and justifying analysis to peers and stakeholders.
• Alignment with Astroscale’s values: mission and people-focused, transparent, innovative, pioneering, diverse, and customer-focused.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks and PDM.
• Familiarity with ECSS and NASA guidance, standards, and handbooks.
• Understanding of the spacecraft product development cycle.
• Proactive, self-starting attitude with the ability to set and achieve objectives.
• Ability to apply sound engineering judgment and provide expert guidance on structural issues.
• Proven track record of accountability for project deliverables.
• Strong communication skills.

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary.
• Opportunity to work with a talented, diverse, and dynamic international team on cutting-edge technology.
• Flexible working hours with a supportive, friendly environment.
• Hybrid working options available (depending on the role).
• 25 days holiday (increasing annually up to 28 days) + 8 days bank holidays.
• Optional 9/75 working pattern.
• Life insurance and long-term sick pay.
• Private healthcare (taxable benefit).
• Relocation allowance.
• Visa sponsorship available.
• New state-of-the-art office and cleanroom facility.
• Regular social events.

Location:

Astroscale UK (Harwell) with potential for occasional travel.

About Astroscale:

Astroscale aims to deliver cutting-edge technologies to make space operations sustainable by 2030. As the first private company focused on securing the safe development of space, Astroscale is dedicated to in-orbit servicing across all orbits. We offer scalable solutions for End of Life services, Active Debris Removal, In-situ Space Situational Awareness, and Life Extension Services to combat the growing risk of space debris.

Astroscale is an Equal Opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, including minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities.

Note to Recruitment Agencies:

Astroscale operates a preferred supplier list and does not accept unsolicited agency applications. Please do not submit CVs or candidate details to Astroscale or any employee without prior agreement.