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Lead Stress Engineer

Auriga Space

Auriga Space

Los Angeles, CA, USA
Posted on Sep 10, 2025

Auriga Space is seeking a Lead Stress Engineer with a strong background in mechanical analysis and design to join our growing team. You will play a key role in advancing our electromagnetic launch technology by driving hardware projects from concept through commissioning. In addition to the primary analysis role, this includes contributions to requirements definition, concept development, detailed design, prototyping, manufacturing support, integration, and testing.

The ideal candidate will be comfortable working across the full engineering life cycle and energized by the fast pace and broad responsibilities of a start-up environment. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and contribute directly to hardware that will reshape access to space and defense capabilities.

Key Responsibilities
  • Perform and document preliminary and detailed static and dynamic structural analyses using the most suitable methods.
  • Perform data reduction and correlate test results for structures and/or structural dynamics.
  • Develop and refine mechanical system concepts, including trade studies and design analyses.
  • Create 3D CAD models and assemblies.
  • Perform thermal analyses to validate performance under operational loads and environments.
  • Support prototyping, machining, and fabrication efforts, including hands-on assembly and test.
  • Drive design iterations based on test results, manufacturing feedback, and mission requirements.
  • Contribute to design reviews, safety assessments, and project documentation.
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • 5–15 years of applied engineering experience in mechanical design and analysis.
  • Strong understanding of mechanical and structural design fundamentals.
  • Experience in 3D CAD software, such as SolidWorks, OnShape, or equivalent.
  • Proficiency with stress analysis, finite element analysis, and thermal analysis tools.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with attention to detail.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Comfortable working in a hands-on, constantly evolving start-up environment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated ability to build and lead a team while performing as an individual contributor.
  • Familiarity with basic manufacturing processes and tolerancing.
  • Background in design and analysis for dynamic systems.
  • Experience with experimental testing, instrumentation, and data analysis.
  • Knowledge of materials science, composites, or advanced alloys.
  • Proficiency with ANSYS and LS-DYNA product suites.
Why Join Auriga Space?

At Auriga Space, you’ll have the rare opportunity to work on first-of-its-kind technology that redefines space access. You’ll be part of a small, agile team where your contributions directly influence the success of our missions. We offer an environment that values initiative, creativity, and problem-solving, where engineers are empowered to work across disciplines and take ownership of critical systems.



ITAR Requirements:

  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. More details on ITAR are available on the U.S. Department of State's Directorate of Defense Trade Controls website.

Auriga provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Auriga, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.