ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Aircraft Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vashon Aircraft

Mechanic, Assembly

Arlington, WA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

We're looking for a hands-on Aircraft Assembly Mechanic to join our team building the Vashon Ranger--a fun, modern, two-seat aircraft designed to get people into the sky. If you take pride in ...

Vashon Aircraft

Mechanic, Assembly

Arlington, WA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

We're looking for a hands-on Aircraft Assembly Mechanic to join our team building the Vashon Ranger--a fun, modern, two-seat aircraft designed to get people into the sky. If you take pride in ...

STS Technical Services

Aircraft Painters

Moline, IL · On-site

$22 - $27.75/hr

Execute layout tasks for striping and complex designs (if applicable) Qualifications: * Previous experience painting corporate aircraft is required * Must be comfortable with full-cycle paint work ...

TSMG

Aircraft Painter

Seattle, WA · On-site

$27.50 - $35/hr

Follow precise instructions and blueprints to create custom designs, logos, or lettering on aircraft. * Inspect painted surfaces for quality, ensuring proper thickness, gloss, and uniformity of color.

Cirrus Aircraft

Industrial Designer Sr

Duluth, MN

$90K - $136K/yr

... of aircraft seats and interiors. This role is responsible for the conceptual design of seating ... Create innovative, visually compelling, and production-ready designs for interior furnishings ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsTravel JobsAviation JobsAerospace Engineer JobsAircraft Designer Jobs

Aircraft Designer information

What does an aircraft designer do?

An aircraft designer is responsible for creating the concepts, blueprints, and specifications for new types of aircraft. They use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and knowledge of aerodynamics, materials, and manufacturing to ensure that the aircraft is safe, efficient, and meets regulatory standards. Aircraft designers often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with engineers, manufacturers, and testers throughout the development process. Their work is critical to the innovation and advancement of aviation technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aircraft designer?

To thrive as an Aircraft Designer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, strong mathematical and physics knowledge, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Expertise in CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), aerodynamic simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards and certifications like FAA or EASA regulations are essential. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills to excel in the design process and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure innovative, safe, and compliant aircraft designs that meet rigorous industry requirements.

What are some typical challenges an aircraft designer faces when working on a new aircraft project?

Aircraft Designers frequently encounter the challenge of balancing innovative design ideas with strict safety regulations and budget constraints. They must collaborate closely with engineers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies to ensure designs meet aerodynamic performance, structural integrity, and compliance standards. Managing project timelines while addressing unexpected technical issues is also common, requiring strong problem-solving skills and adaptability. Effective teamwork and communication across multidisciplinary teams are crucial for successfully bringing new aircraft concepts from concept to completion.

What is the difference between Aircraft Designer vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAircraft DesignerAerospace Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, certifications varyBachelor's or higher in Aerospace Engineering, professional licenses optional
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, labs, aircraft manufacturing facilitiesResearch labs, manufacturing plants, testing facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in aircraft design and manufacturing companiesBroader aerospace sector including spacecraft, satellites, and aircraft

Aircraft Designers focus specifically on creating and developing aircraft structures and systems, often working within aircraft manufacturing companies. Aerospace Engineers have a broader scope, working on various aerospace projects including spacecraft and satellites, in addition to aircraft. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate, but their primary focus and work environments differ slightly.

More about Aircraft Designer jobs

What states have the most Aircraft Designer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aircraft Designer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Aircraft Designer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Aircraft Designer jobs are:

Aircraft Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Senior Aerospace Design Engineer

Van's Aircraft, Inc.

Aurora, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Senior Aerospace Design Engineer

Join Van’s Aircraft—Where Innovation Takes Flight

Van’s Aircraft is looking for an experienced and detail-driven Senior Aerospace Design Engineer to join our engineering team. In this role, you’ll apply deep technical expertise to design, analyze, and support the development of high-performance kit aircraft. You’ll be instrumental in advancing our aircraft designs from concept through production—bringing precision, innovation, and a passion for aviation to every stage of the process. If you enjoy solving complex engineering problems and working hands-on in a dynamic environment, we want to hear from you.

________________________________________

Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept:
  • Design & Develop: Create detailed 3D CAD models and technical drawings for airframes, assemblies, and tooling using SolidWorks.
  • Analyze & Validate: Perform structural analysis using hand calculations and FEA to ensure safety and compliance with design requirements.
  • Performance Support: Conduct aerodynamic and performance evaluations to optimize flight characteristics.
  • Test Involvement: Participate in structural and flight testing, including setup, data acquisition, and analysis.
  • Prototyping: Assist in the prototyping and testing of parts and systems to validate designs and resolve technical challenges.
  • CrossFunctional Collaboration: Work closely with production, supply chain, and customer service teams to ensure designs are buildable and serviceable.
  • Documentation: Contribute to the creation and maintenance of assembly manuals, service instructions, and support documentation.
  • Process Improvement: Provide engineering support to improve manufacturing efficiency, part quality, and builder experience.
  • Customer Interaction: Occasionally support customers and represent Van’s Aircraft at events and flyins.
  • Knowledge Sharing: Offer informal mentorship to peers and interns, sharing technical insights and best practices.

    • ________________________________________

    What You’ll Bring to the Team:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, or Mechanical Engineering.
  • 5+ years of experience in aircraft or mechanical design, ideally within general aviation or experimental aircraft.
  • Strong understanding of aircraft structures, mechanical systems, and manufacturing processes.
  • Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred), 2D drafting, and FEA tools.
  • Excellent attention to detail and a strong sense of ownership over technical work.
  • Handson skills with shop tools, prototypes, and mechanical assemblies.
  • Ability to work independently while effectively communicating within a team.
  • Solid written and verbal communication skills for documentation and crossteam collaboration.
  • Interest in aviation—pilot license or experience building/flying experimental aircraft is a plus.

    • ________________________________________

    Work Environment:

    This role offers a balance of office-based design work and hands-on engineering activities in a production setting. Some travel (up to 10%) may be required for flight testing, trade shows, or customer support. Expect to spend most of your time seated, with periods of standing, walking, and light lifting as part of prototyping or testing.

    ________________________________________

    Equal Employment Opportunity:

    Van’s Aircraft is committed to equal employment opportunity and a diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

    #LI-LS1

Apply