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Aerospace Structural Engineer Jobs in Washington

Structures Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$92K - $164K/yr

Structures Engineer Position Overview At Aurora Flight Sciences, we design, build, and fly advanced ... structural challenges by applying various learned aerospace industry standard classical analysis ...

Mechanical/Aerospace System Engineer Location: White Oak, MD Function/Branch: Engineering / Tunnel ... structural and stress analysis reports for components in the wind tunnel; and develop improvements ...

Mechanical/Aerospace System Engineer Location: White Oak, MD Function/Branch: Engineering / Tunnel ... structural and stress analysis reports for components in the wind tunnel; and develop improvements ...

Showing results 21-40

Aerospace Structural Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$56.6K

$112.6K

$172.2K

How much do aerospace structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace structural engineer in Washington is $112,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $128,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerospace structural engineer?

An Aerospace Structural Engineer designs, analyzes, and tests the structural components of aircraft and spacecraft to ensure they can withstand operational stresses. They use materials science and engineering principles to create lightweight yet strong structures. Their work involves simulations, stress analysis, and collaboration with other engineers to meet safety and performance standards.

What does an aerospace structural engineer do?

A typical day for an Aerospace Structural Engineer may include performing stress and fatigue analyses on aircraft components, collaborating with design teams to develop new structural concepts, and reviewing design modifications for compliance with safety standards. Engineers often use advanced computer modeling tools to simulate loads and material behaviors under various flight conditions. Regular meetings with manufacturing, quality assurance, and testing teams are common to address real-time issues and ensure smooth integration of structural components. The role also involves preparing technical reports and documentation to support regulatory approvals and internal reviews.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace structural engineer?

Aerospace Structural Engineers require a solid background in structural analysis, materials science, and engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Proficiency with finite element analysis (FEA) software such as ANSYS or NASTRAN, and familiarity with industry standards like FAA or EASA certification requirements, are crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities help engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and present technical findings. These combined skills ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design and validation of aerospace structures in a highly regulated industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Structural Engineer jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Aerospace Structural Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Structural Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Aerospace Structural Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aerospace Structural Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerospace Structural Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Aerospace Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Aerospace Structural Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Aerospace Structural Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,580 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Aircraft Loads & Dynamics Engineer - 078QE

Quartus Engineering

Herndon, VA • Hybrid

$142K - $235K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Quartus

Quartus Engineering Incorporated (www.quartus.com) is a leading provider of engineering services and integrated hardware solutions for a wide range of clients and industries. We employ advanced computer-aided engineering tools in the areas of optics, structural, thermal, and coupled analyses. We couple our engineering analysis capabilities with design, prototype, integration and test capabilities to create solutions for our clients that are of extraordinary value.

What will you do?

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Aircraft Loads and Dynamics Engineer to join our team. As a Lead Engineer, you will play a critical role in evaluating, analyzing, and optimizing the loads and dynamic behavior of aircraft structures and systems. This position requires an individual with an advanced understanding of structural loads, aeroelasticity, dynamic response, and certification processes for both fixed-wing and/or rotary-wing aircraft. The candidate should have at least 10 years of industry experience in the aerospace sector, with demonstrated expertise in loads and dynamics analysis and compliance with applicable regulations (e.g., FAR/CS Part 23, 25, 27, or 29). Additionally, experience in sustained engine imbalance analysis and requirements development is a plus.

Essential Job Functions:

Aircraft Loads Analysis:

  • Perform static and dynamic loads analysis for various flight and ground conditions, including gust, turbulence, landing, taxiing, takeoff, and emergency maneuvers. 
  • Develop load cases in compliance with certification requirements and design criteria. 
  • Support the development of aerodynamic databases and load envelopes in coordination with the aerodynamics group.

Aeroelasticity and Flutter:

  • Conduct aeroelastic analyses, including flutter, divergence, and control reversal studies, to ensure structural stability (FAR 25.629).
  • Mitigate risks related to structural resonance, fatigue, and dynamic instabilities.

Sustained Engine Imbalance Analysis:

  • Perform analysis to evaluate the effects of sustained engine imbalance (e.g., rotor unbalance or blade loss) on aircraft structural loads and dynamic response, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., CFR 25.901(c), 25.903(c), AC 25-24).

Certification and Documentation:

  • Prepare technical reports, substantiation documents, and compliance data packages for regulatory authorities (e.g., FAA, EASA).
  • Ensure compliance with applicable airworthiness standards (e.g., CFR/CS Part 23, 25, 27, 29).
  • Collaborate with regulatory agencies and certification specialists as needed.

Collaboration:

  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and team members.
  • Work directly with Quartus’s business development/sales organization to expand and diversify our air vehicle customer base.

Location

Position will be based in Herndon, VA, or San Diego, CA, with a hybrid schedule.*

*The hybrid work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs including but not limited to training, performance, or other operational requirements. Any physical location change may impact future employment.

What are we looking for?

·         BS and/or MS in Mechanical, Aerospace, Structural, or similar Engineering field

·         10+ years of experience in aircraft/rotorcraft static loads and criteria

·         Experience with static and dynamic load derivation for aircraft

·         Experience developing aeroelastic analysis models

·         Experience or expertise in MSC NASTRAN, ZAERO, or similar tool is required

·         Experience or expertise in coding with MATLAB and/or Python

·         Familiarity with Patran, FEMAP, RCAS, Adams, or comparable tools

·         Experience with ground vibration and/or static load tests

·         Experience with Special Class Airworthiness (Part 21)

·         Must be a US Person (US Citizen or US Permanent Resident)

Preferred Qualifications:

·         Knowledge and experience with CFD analysis

·         Experience working with Structures FAA DERs a plus

·         Knowledge or experience with Aeroservoelastic analyses

Compensation and Benefits

Lead Engineer pay range:$142,245 - $235,409*

*This pay range represents base pay. In addition, you may be eligible for additional benefits and compensation.

Referral eligibility: Tier 1

Quartus is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to employing a diverse workforce, including, but not limited to, minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. Quartus provides comprehensive benefits including competitive salary, discretionary performance-based bonus, employee stock ownership plan, medical, dental, vision, and 401k plan with company match.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME