Lead Mechanical Engineer for Aircraft Structures
Full-time | On-site
Position Overview
Join a cutting-edge aviation startup focused on developing zero-emission aircraft that will revolutionize flight! We're looking for a dedicated Mechanical Engineer to take charge of the design, analysis, and development of mechanical hardware for both primary and secondary aircraft structures.
Why You Should Apply: If you have a passion for aircraft design and want to be at the forefront of innovation in aviation, this is the perfect opportunity for you. You will lead structural hardware initiatives from prototype to certification while supporting FAA documentation and compliance. Work closely with our manufacturing and testing teams, and mentor a dynamic team of mechanical engineers.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the structural design and development of aircraft structures from concept to certification, covering all phases including release and production implementation.
- Conduct and review structural analyses, utilizing hand calculations and FEA as appropriate.
- Develop FAA-compliant structural designs and facilitate certification and production readiness for modified aircraft platforms.
- Create and manage engineering drawings, stress reports, and certification support documentation as per FAA standards.
- Define materials, processes, and quality requirements for metallic and composite aircraft structures.
- Formulate manufacturing plans and provide support for prototype and low-rate production plans.
- Plan and oversee structural test campaigns, ensuring thorough qualification and acceptance testing.
- Assist in nonconformance dispositions and resolve production or field issues related to aircraft structural hardware.
- Work collaboratively across teams—manufacturing, quality, certification, flight test—to ensure design compliance.
- Mentor junior engineers and contribute to improving design processes continuously.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.
- 5+ years of experience in aircraft structural design, analysis, and certification support.
- Hands-on experience with FAA-conforming aircraft structural parts and modifications.
- Proficient in 3D CAD (SolidWorks), hand calculations, and FEA tools.
- Solid knowledge of metallic and composite aircraft structures, including design methodologies and fabrication methods.
- Proficiency with aircraft drafting standards, GD&T, and ANSI / ASME Y14.5.
- Experience supporting prototype fabrication and structural testing for aircraft hardware.
- Able to thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment requiring ownership and proactive execution.
Desired Qualifications
- Direct experience with STC programs and FAA-approved structural modifications, particularly for Cessna Caravan or similar aircraft.
- 10+ years in aircraft structures, encompassing the full lifecycle from design to field support.
- Experience mentoring junior engineers or leading technical teams.
- FAA Structural DER authorization or close collaboration with DERs.
- Experience in composite fabrication.
- Involvement in structural qualification testing, including planning and data analysis.
- Proficient in advanced CAD/FEA tools such as NX, Nastran, or Altair.
- Understanding of thermal and structural design for engine enclosures and other related hardware.
- Familiarity with project management tools and requirements management practices.
If you are excited about hands-on, certifiable aircraft modification work, and thrive in a fast-paced environment while supporting and mentoring junior engineers, we want to hear from you!