Loads Engineer

Help Build Europe's Hypersonic Capability

At Hypersonica, we’re redefining what’s possible in European defence technology. We exist to deliver speed, resilience, and technological independence at a pace that sets a new standard. We are a small, elite team working on problems that matter, and solving them fast.

By joining Hypersonica, you’re not stepping into a predefined role. You’re joining a talent dense environment where every individual shapes the direction of the company. Our philosophy is to hire a small number of exceptional people with broad, deep technical capability, strong judgement, and the ability to operate autonomously.

We hire for talent, not rigid boxes. This role represents a business need, but the way it evolves will be shaped by the individual. If you’ve achieved what others said was impossible, or you bring a unique combination of skills that doesn’t fit a traditional mould, we want to hear from you. The work you do here directly contributes to Europe’s technological independence.

What you'll do

• Load Analysis & Definition: Calculate and establish static and dynamic design load cases for all flight and ground phases, including transportation, launchpad operations, engine ignition, atmospheric ascent (aerodynamic loads), staging, re-entry, and landing.

• Coupled Loads Analysis (CLA): Build and execute complex mathematical simulation models by coupling launch vehicle and payload models to predict critical flight environments and transient events.

• Modeling & Simulation: Develop and optimize finite element models (FEM) and perform structural dynamics analyses, including transient, sinusoidal, random vibration (PSD), gusts, and acoustic response analyses.

• Testing & Validation: Design, oversee, and analyze data from physical tests (e.g., modal surveys, vibration, and shock testing) and correlate simulation models with actual flight telemetry data.

Who you are

• Education: University degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a strong focus on structural dynamics or continuum mechanics.

• Experience: Proven experience in structural loads definition, structural dynamics, or aeroelasticity, ideally within the development of launch vehicles, satellites, or missiles.

Technical Skills:

• Deep understanding of structural dynamics, vibe/shock environments, and acoustic phenomena.

• Proficiency with commercial FEA solvers (Optistruct) and pre-/post-processors (HyperMesh).

What we offer

• A mission driven environment with the opportunity to work on one of Europe’s most consequential defence challenges, with direct impact on sovereign capability and security.
• Daily collaboration with top experts across engineering, operations, and defence, with real opportunity to learn from the best, contribute, and grow.
• High ownership and autonomy; no time tracking, no micromanagement, just clear objectives and accountability for outcomes.
• A fast paced environment where good ideas are implemented quickly, and feedback from test and flight drives real decisions.
• A culture that values clarity, integrity, and excellence, and supports people who take initiative and push boundaries responsibly.
• Competitive compensation and real share options aligned to responsibility and impact, not tenure or hierarchy.

At Hypersonica, every hire raises the bar. We are deliberately small, intensely capable, and deeply mission-driven. If this role feels like a strong fit, or if you believe you bring something exceptional that goes beyond the description, we encourage you to apply.

Hypersonica is an equal-opportunity employer and assesses candidates solely on merit, capability, and potential.

You can apply directly to this role or reach out to Nathan Sweeney, Head of Talent. We review every application and aim to respond to all candidates within two weeks, whether the answer is yes or no.