Structural Design Lead - Space Vehicle

At ispace U.S., we’re not just going to the Moon—we’re redefining how we get there. Our missions push the boundaries of human and robotic exploration, driven by our belief: “Expand our Planet. Expand our Future.” By providing cost-effective lunar transportation, we are pioneering a future where space is within reach for scientific discovery, commercial ventures, and sustainable exploration.  

With locations in Japan, Luxembourg, and the United States, ispace is rapidly growing and leading the way in lunar exploration and development. Our U.S. branch is based in Englewood, Colorado, and focuses on high-capacity payload lunar landers designed to support future lunar missions. Our team is made up of innovators, problem-solvers, and visionaries committed to making space more accessible and fostering the next generation of space exploration. 

Let’s go to the Moon together! Our team is growing, and we are actively seeking talented individuals who share our passion for space. 

We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated Structural Design Lead with a strong background in space vehicles capable of setting the standard for technical success and guiding fellow designers. The Structural Design Lead will play a critical role in the successful development and deployment of our lunar exploration spacecraft, ensuring that our designs meet the rigorous demands of our space missions.

• Provide technical leadership and serve as the subject matter expert for the team of designers.
• Ensure structural design complies with aerospace standards, safety regulations, and mission requirements.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative culture, emphasizing excellence and continuous improvement in engineering best practices.
• Mentor and develop subsystem team members, enhancing their technical expertise.
• Oversee the overall vehicle design along with packaging of spacecraft systems such as Avionics, RF communications, thermal control, and electrical power systems.
• Utilize advanced engineering tools and software for computer-aided design (CAD).
• Lead the design, development, and optimization of spacecraft structural components and assemblies.
• Review and approve technical documentation, including design specifications, analysis reports, and testing procedures related to structures.
• Coordinate with manufacturing teams to ensure the feasibility and quality of structural components.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with structural design and material selection.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure interfaces are well-defined.
• Develop and implement engineering strategies that enhance our structural design capabilities and align with company goals.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies, materials, and methodologies in spacecraft structures.
• Lead initiatives to improve engineering processes, tools, and best practices in structures design.
• Contribute to resource estimation and schedule planning efforts.
• Present technical briefings and updates on design progress and challenges to stakeholders.

• Provide technical leadership and serve as the subject matter expert for the team of designers.
• Ensure structural design complies with aerospace standards, safety regulations, and mission requirements.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative culture, emphasizing excellence and continuous improvement in engineering best practices.
• Mentor and develop subsystem team members, enhancing their technical expertise.
• Oversee the overall vehicle design along with packaging of spacecraft systems such as Avionics, RF communications, thermal control, and electrical power systems.
• Utilize advanced engineering tools and software for computer-aided design (CAD).
• Lead the design, development, and optimization of spacecraft structural components and assemblies.
• Review and approve technical documentation, including design specifications, analysis reports, and testing procedures related to structures.
• Coordinate with manufacturing teams to ensure the feasibility and quality of structural components.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with structural design and material selection.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure interfaces are well-defined.
• Develop and implement engineering strategies that enhance our structural design capabilities and align with company goals.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies, materials, and methodologies in spacecraft structures.
• Lead initiatives to improve engineering processes, tools, and best practices in structures design.
• Contribute to resource estimation and schedule planning efforts.
• Present technical briefings and updates on design progress and challenges to stakeholders.

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline
• Experience identifying and navigating the challenges of a startup environment
• Close interaction with structural analysis teams, and familiarity of methodologies and tools
• At least 2 years of experience leading technical engineering teams.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced design and development environment
• Schedule may vary depending on program development needs; flexibility required
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required

• Health Coverage: Competitive medical, vision, and dental plans, with 100% company-paid options available for employees. 
• Hybrid Work: Flexibility to work remotely and in-office, depending on your role and the stage of our program. 
• Commuter Perks: Company-paid RTD EcoPass for buses and light rail. 
• Lunch Perks: Monthly stipend to enjoy meals from our café. 
• Paid Time Off: 18 vacation days, 6 sick days, and 14 paid holidays. 
• Retirement: 401(k) plan with company matching. 
• Travel: Opportunities for domestic and international travel. 
• Stock Options: Participation in our stock option program. 
• Learning & Development: Ample opportunities to grow, including lunch-and-learns, skills training, and stipends for professional development. 
• Team Culture: A fun and casual environment with regular team gatherings, including monthly TGIF events to connect and unwind. 

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At ispace, we believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences, even if you don’t meet every listed requirement. If you’re passionate about our mission and think you can contribute, we encourage you to apply. Your unique skills and experiences may be exactly what we need to grow and succeed together. 

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you 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 the ITAR .here.   

ispace is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with ispace is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. 

All applicants who are offered employment with ispace US will be subject to a background investigation. Offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of a background investigation conducted in accordance with Company policies and all applicable laws.

ispace Technologies, US, Inc. is a drug-free workplace. 

ispace Technologies, US, Inc. participates in the E-Verify program. 

Salary : $110,000 - $140,000