Catalyx Space is developing next-generation entry systems for space. As a Senior Design Engineer (Structures), you will lead the design, development, integration, and qualification of the primary structure for spacecraft and reentry vehicles. This role combines hands-on CAD/FEA expertise with system-level ownership, requiring experience across composites, pressure vessels, pyrotechnic devices, and full spacecraft qualification. You will bring flight heritage experience to ensure Catalyx hardware is reliable and flight-ready. Responsibilities: • Be responsible for defining the product from scratch — from concept through flight readiness. • Own the overall BOM, vehicle configuration, hardware release process, and PLM. • Take ownership of the entire spacecraft qualification campaign and flight acceptance testing, ensuring hardware is validated at the system level, not just subsystems. • Define the test campaign for spacecraft and reentry systems. • Define volume, mass, CG, and stiffness boundaries for other departments. • Own the SolidWorks CAD design of primary structures and assemblies. • Perform FEA modelling and analysis using ANSYS, Abaqus, or equivalent tools. • Define assembly sequences for spacecraft structures and subsystems to ensure efficient integration and test flow. • Oversee the full spacecraft integration process, from structural build-up through final system closeout. • Collaborate with engineering teams to provide Design for Manufacturability (DFM) feedback and propose creative solutions for complex part geometries. • Apply design for additive manufacturing principles in complex designs. • Define and derive torque requirements for fasteners and joints. • Oversee MGSE hardware design for integration and test operations. Qualifications: • Bachelor’s/Master’s in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or related field. • 5+ years of experience in spacecraft or reentry structural design. • Flight heritage required direct experience delivering hardware that has flown. • Expert proficiency in SolidWorks CAD. • Strong expertise in tolerance stack-up analysis. • Deep knowledge of FEA modelling (vibration). • Proven experience with vibration testing. • Extensive experience with composites, including sandwich panels and high-temperature materials. • Experience designing and validating pressure vessels for space applications. • Experience working with pyrotechnic devices and integrating them into structural systems. • Expertise in 3D printing and additive manufacturing design. • Experience with high-temperature fabrics, woven composites, or textile-based structures. • Familiarity with textile engineering concepts (weaves, stitching, layups). Preferred Skills: • Proven ability to deliver flight-ready structural hardware. • Background in algorithmic or generative design methods for lightweight structures. • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. • Willingness to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed.