Lead Structural Analysis Engineer

Most Engineers Design for the Atmosphere. We Need the One Who Designs for the Abyss.

Imagine your structural models surviving the violent acoustics of a rocket launch, only to unfold seamlessly in the freezing, silent vacuum of orbit. You aren’t just running simulations; you are the final line of defense ensuring Europe's most critical space hardware doesn't fail when it matters most.

We are exclusively representing a pioneering, heavily funded deep-tech space company in Garching, Germany. They are building massive, deployable satellite structures backed by long-term ESA contracts. They don't need a manager to push papers; they need a visionary Lead Structural Analysis Engineer to guide a brilliant, multicultural team of six through the most brutal load cases the cosmos can throw at them.

Let’s be brutally honest: "Aerospace" is a broad term, but our client only cares about the Space part. If your career is grounded in general aviation or aeronautics, this mission is a no-go.

The Non-Negotiables

This is a high-stakes environment. There is zero flexibility on the following criteria—if you do not meet them, your profile will not pass the initial sweep.

• 10+ Years in the Space Industry: You must have a career built on objects designed to leave the atmosphere. Aviation profiles will be immediately screened out.

• Proven Command: At least 3+ years explicitly leading and mentoring engineering teams (5+ people) on complex space projects.

• Elite Technical Arsenal: Deep, undisputed expertise in FEMAP and NASTRAN (linear and non-linear).

• Automation Mastery: You build, validate, and optimize workflows using Python, MATLAB, or FORTRAN.

• Standard Bearer: Intimate, working knowledge of ESA/ECSS structural verification standards.

• Environmental Empathy: A profound understanding of extreme space environments (vacuum, thermal extremes, structural stiffness).

  
  

The Arsenal & The Reward

You will be joining a "no-ego," purpose-driven culture where the best idea wins, period.

• Compensation: €80,000 – €100,000 gross per year, plus discretionary performance bonuses.

• The Work Setup: Based in modern offices in Garching, Germany. Hybrid model (1-2 days remote per week).

• The Perks: Unmatched ownership over real, flight-qualified hardware, stable project funding through 2029+, and a clear trajectory for career growth in a flat-hierarchy environment.

  
  

How to Launch

If you have the scars, the leadership, and the exact technical pedigree to command this team, we want to see your track record.

Submit your profile directly to careers@protodigy.com.

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