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Aircraft Structural Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SOGECLAIR

Structural Design Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

Key Responsibilities • Perform structural analysis to evaluate aircraft components and assemblies ... design reviews, testing, troubleshooting, and post-delivery engineering activities. • Ensure ...

AEVEX

Design Engineer 3

Murrieta, CA

The Design Engineer 3 at AEVEX Aerospace is engaged in the design of aircraft structural and system modifications using 3D CAD software. Tasks will involve platform modification layouts, preliminary ...

Actalent

Structural Design Engineer

Wichita, KS

Lead and guide junior engineers in structural design best practices, methods, and standards ... Experience working on commercial aircraft programs or fuselage structures. * Recent experience ...

Electra

Senior Airframe Design Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$100K - $136K/yr

Senior Airframe Design Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation ... Master's degree preferred. * 8+ years of experience in aircraft structural or airframe design ...

Electra

Senior Airframe Design Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$100K - $136K/yr

Senior Airframe Design Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation ... Master's degree preferred. * 8+ years of experience in aircraft structural or airframe design ...

Intellectt INC

Structural Design Engineer

Pelion, SC · On-site

Structural Design Engineer Location: Pelzer, SC Duration: 12-month contract Type: W2 Contract Industry: Data Centre / Power Infrastructure We are actively hiring a Structural Design Engineer for a ...

Intellectt INC

Structural Design Engineer

Pelzer, SC · On-site

We have an urgent opening for a Structural Design Engineer position based in Pelzer, SC with one of our prestigious clients. If you are interested or know someone who might be a good fit, please ...

Intellectt INC

Structural Design Engineer

Pelzer, SC · On-site

Structural Design Engineer Location: Pelzer, SC Job Summary: We are seeking a Structural Design Engineer with 4+ years of experience in structural or mechanical engineering to design and develop ...

SST Direct

MRB Design Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$85 - $90/hr

We are seeking an experienced Senior Structural Design Engineer to support aircraft modifications, Special Missions programs, and aftermarket engineering projects. This role is responsible for ...

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All JobsAircraft Structural Design Engineer Jobs

Aircraft Structural Design Engineer information

See salary details

$43K

$103.5K

$192.5K

How much do aircraft structural design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for aircraft structural design engineer in the United States is $103,463.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aircraft Structural Design Engineer vs Aerospace Design Engineer?

AspectAircraft Structural Design EngineerAerospace Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, certifications like EASA or FAABachelor's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Aeronautical Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentAircraft manufacturing, maintenance, and repair facilitiesAircraft, spacecraft, and satellite design firms
Industry UsagePrimarily in aviation and defense sectorsIn aerospace, space exploration, and defense industries

While both roles involve designing aircraft components, the Aircraft Structural Design Engineer focuses specifically on aircraft structures, whereas the Aerospace Design Engineer may work on a broader range of aerospace projects, including spacecraft and satellites. The roles share similar credentials and work environments but differ in scope and application.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aircraft Structural Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Structural Design Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, proficiency in structural analysis, and a solid understanding of aerodynamics and materials science, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Expertise with CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), finite element analysis (FEA) tools, and familiarity with aviation industry standards are crucial. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this role. These skills ensure the design and integrity of safe, efficient aircraft structures, meeting regulatory requirements and project goals.

What does an Aircraft Structural Design Engineer do?

An Aircraft Structural Design Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and testing the structural components of aircraft to ensure they meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. Their work includes creating detailed blueprints, selecting appropriate materials, and using computer-aided design (CAD) software to model structures such as fuselages, wings, and landing gear. They also collaborate with other engineering teams to integrate structural designs with systems like avionics and propulsion. Ensuring structural integrity while minimizing weight and cost is a key part of the role.

What are the common challenges faced by Aircraft Structural Design Engineers when working on new aircraft models?

Aircraft Structural Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing weight optimization with structural integrity and safety requirements. They must also navigate strict regulatory standards and certification processes, which require meticulous attention to detail and thorough documentation. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—including aerodynamics, materials, and manufacturing engineers—is crucial for integrating various system requirements, which can sometimes lead to complex coordination efforts. Staying updated on the latest materials and design technologies is also essential to deliver innovative and efficient solutions.
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What cities are hiring for Aircraft Structural Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Aircraft Structural Design Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Aircraft Structural Design Engineer jobs? The top employers for Aircraft Structural Design Engineer jobs are:
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What are popular job titles related to Aircraft Structural Design Engineer jobs? For Aircraft Structural Design Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Aircraft Structural Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Structural Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,463 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

Mechanical Design, Structures & Airframe - Engineer II/Senior

Heart Aerospace

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$124K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

At Heart Aerospace, we're shaping the future of sustainable aviation with the ES-30, a regional hybrid-electric aircraft designed to carry 30 passengers with a 200 km all-electric, zero-emission range and an extended 400 km hybrid range. Heart is targeting type certification by the end of the decade.
Your Mission
As a Mechanical Design Engineer, Structures & Airframe, you will design, analyze, and develop aircraft structural components. You will collaborate cross functionally to the design of the fuselage, wing, and empennage, working with both composite and metallic materials, while gaining hands-on exposure to certified aerospace hardware development in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
This is an exciting opportunity for a mechanical or aerospace engineer to contribute to the design and development of next-generation aircraft structures while building strong engineering fundamentals and growing into increased technical responsibility over time.
Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • This role is a Responsible Engineer (RE) who focuses on the design and development of aircraft structural components.
  • Create and release 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, and documentation using NX/Teamcenter or equivalent tools.
  • Optimize structural performance for cost and mass.
  • Perform structural analyses, hand calculations, and FEA activities with mentorship.
  • Define structural requirements, specifications, and test plans.
  • Own structural testing activities, data review, and documentation.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, and test teams to resolve design and build issues.
  • Participate in design reviews, continuous improvement and best practices.
  • Learn and apply aerospace standards, GD&T, and manufacturing fundamentals.

(This position can be hired as a Mechanical Design Engineer II or Senior Mechanical Design Engineer)
Skills & Requirements:
You'll Bring These Qualifications for Mechanical Design Engineer II, Structures & Airframe:
  • 2+ years of professional experience in structural design, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience with CAD tools such as Siemens NX, CATIA, Creo, or SolidWorks
  • Understanding of engineering fundamentals, structural mechanics, and first principles
  • Exposure to composite and/or metallic structures through coursework, projects, or early industry experience
  • Familiarity with GD&T and basic manufacturing concepts
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and take technical direction
  • Passion for aircraft design and interest in sustainable aviation

You'll Bring These Qualifications for a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, Structures & Airframe:
  • 5+ years experience in composite structural design
  • Experience with CAD tools such as Siemens NX, CATIA, Creo, or SolidWorks
  • Understanding of engineering fundamentals, structural mechanics, and first principles
  • Familiarity with GD&T and basic manufacturing concepts
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and take technical direction
  • Passion for aircraft design and interest in sustainable aviation

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have:
  • Worked in a startup environment.
  • Hands-on exposure to composite or aluminum part fabrication.
  • Familiarity with NX, CATIA, or other advanced CAD platforms.
  • Academic or early exposure to FAA/EASA certification concepts.
  • Introductory experience with FEA tools and structural analysis methods.
  • Experience leading or working with structural testing, instrumentation, or data analysis.
  • Master's degree (or progress toward one) in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.

Base Pay Range:
  • Mechanical Design Engineer II - $124,000 - $155,000.
  • Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - $140,000 - $176,000.

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