FEA Analyst II/III

Title: FEA Analyst II/III
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $100,000 - $140,000
Location: Based in Loveland, CO
Reports to: Engineering Program Manager, Deployment Systems

About Opterus Research and Development:

Established in 2018, Opterus is a fast-growing provider of critical spacecraft components and deployable structures. We are on a mission to transform the aerospace and defense industry by helping our partners accomplish more in space with less. Opterus combines our patented high-strain composites with origami principles to design and manufacture high-performance rollable booms, RF structures, solar arrays, and other next-generation structures and systems. We’re looking for a motivated team player to join us in making the future unfold in space.

Position Overview:

As an FEA Analyst II/III, you will be a key contributor in our analysis group, performing advanced finite element modeling, simulation, and analysis to support the design, development, and flight-qualification of next-generation deployable space structures. This senior-level role requires deep expertise in FEA tools and methodologies, strong analytical problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities:

• Develop, refine, and execute advanced finite element models for aerospace structures, with emphasis on nonlinear, dynamic, and composite material behavior
• Analyze structural performance for a range of load cases to qualify for flight, including thermal, vibration, shock, and deployment dynamics
• Collaborate closely with design, manufacturing, and test engineers to ensure structural integrity and performance requirements (flight qualification) are met
• Support structural design trade studies, optimization, and material selection
• Validate models through correlation with test data and physical prototypes
• Document and present analysis results to internal design teams, project stakeholders, and external customers
• Apply engineering principles to provide input on design improvements and identify associated risks
• Mentor junior analysts and provide technical guidance on modeling best practices and standards
• Other related duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• BS in Mechanical, Structural, Aerospace, or related discipline; MS or PhD preferred
• 5 years of experience performing advanced finite element analysis for aerospace (spaceflight hardware) or similar high-performance structures
• Proficiency with analysis and engineering tools such as Abaqus, NASTRAN, ANSYS, SolidWorks (CAD), Mathematica, and Python
• Strong understanding of composite materials, structural dynamics, GD&T, and nonlinear analysis
• Preferably an understanding of aerospace standards, such as GEVS and NASA-STD 5002, 6016 & 7009A
• Strong communication skills (oral, written, and presentation)
• Team-oriented with the ability to be a self-starter and work independently
• Fluency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams, etc.)
• US citizen or permanent resident

Compensation and Benefits:

• Salary range of $100,000 - $140,000, based on experience and qualifications
• Flexible and hybrid work schedules: 9/80 or 10/80 schedules, with two or more days in office
• Opterus pays 100% of employees’ premiums and 70% of dependents’ premiums
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, Life and AD&D insurances
• 401K matching up to 4%
• 9 paid holidays
• Work within a community-oriented environment at Forge Campus. Amenities include an onsite restaurant, brewery, coffee shop, and multiple shared outdoor spaces

Are you missing qualifications or feeling overqualified? Opterus values diverse experiences, and we believe that everyone has unique strengths to offer. If you are passionate about learning, inspired by innovation, or enjoy dynamic roles, we want to hear from you!

Opterus Research and Development is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Salary : $100,000 - $140,000