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Airframe Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Archer

Airframe Design Lead, Wing

San Jose, CA · On-site

$172K - $216K/yr

Work closely with and mentor other engineers on the design, stress and M&P teams * Provide ... Broad experience across a range of airframe structures (fuselage, wing, pylons, empennage)

Archer

Airframe Design Lead, Fuselage

San Jose, CA · On-site

$172K - $216K/yr

Work closely with and mentor other engineers on the design, stress and M&P teams * Provide ... Broad experience across a range of airframe structures (fuselage, wing, pylons, empennage)

Archer

Airframe Design Lead, Fuselage

San Jose, CA · On-site

$172K - $216K/yr

Work closely with and mentor other engineers on the design, stress and M&P teams * Provide ... Broad experience across a range of airframe structures (fuselage, wing, pylons, empennage)

Archer

Airframe Design Lead, Wing

San Jose, CA · On-site

$172K - $216K/yr

Work closely with and mentor other engineers on the design, stress and M&P teams * Provide ... Broad experience across a range of airframe structures (fuselage, wing, pylons, empennage)

Archer

Tooling Design Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA

$114K - $142K/yr

Work closely with airframe design & manufacturing engineers to provide manufacturing/assembly input during initial design stages. * Design tooling for trim, drill, and assembly operations, as well as ...

AEVEX

Design Engineer 3

Murrieta, CA · On-site

The Design Engineer 3 at AEVEX Aerospace is engaged in the design of aircraft structural and system ... Interfaces with stress analysts and shop floor mechanics throughout airframe integration projects.

AEVEX

Design Engineer 3

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$133.90 - $147.90/hr

The Design Engineer 3 at AEVEX Aerospace is engaged in the design of aircraft structural and system ... Strong understanding of airframe structures, systems, manufacturing and assembly procedures.

AEVEX

Design Engineer 3

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$133.90 - $147.90/hr

The Design Engineer 3 at AEVEX Aerospace is engaged in the design of aircraft structural and system ... Strong understanding of airframe structures, systems, manufacturing and assembly procedures.

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All JobsAirframe Design Engineer JobsAirframe Design Engineer Jobs in California

Airframe Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$70.1K

$118.7K

$176.2K

How much do airframe design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for airframe design engineer in California is $118,666.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $135,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an airframe design engineer do?

An Airframe Design Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing the structural components of an aircraft. They ensure that the airframe meets safety, performance, and regulatory requirements while minimizing weight and cost. Their work involves using CAD software, conducting stress analysis, and collaborating with other engineering teams to integrate various aircraft systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airframe design engineer?

To thrive as an Airframe Design Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, strong knowledge of structural analysis, and proficiency in 3D CAD modeling—typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard software like CATIA or Siemens NX, and knowledge of FEA tools and aerospace regulations are vital, with certifications in aerospace engineering being a plus. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These skills enable the successful design, analysis, and implementation of safe and efficient airframe structures while coordinating with multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges an airframe design engineer might face in their day-to-day work?

Airframe Design Engineers frequently encounter complex technical challenges, such as balancing weight reduction with structural integrity and navigating evolving regulatory requirements. Coordinating with manufacturing and testing teams to ensure designs are both feasible and cost-effective can require strong collaboration skills. Meeting tight project deadlines while accommodating design changes or unexpected issues is also common. Successfully overcoming these challenges requires adaptability, a solutions-oriented approach, and continuous communication with cross-functional teams.

What cities in California are hiring for Airframe Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Airframe Design Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Airframe Design Engineer jobs in CA?

For Airframe Design Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Airframe Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airframe Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,666 per year, or $57.1 per hour.

Design Engineer - Airframe

Robinson Helicopter Company, Inc.

Torrance, CA • On-site

$100K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Founded in 1973, Robinson Helicopter Company Inc., (RHC), is the preeminent manufacturer of civil rotorcraft located in Torrance, California. Robinson has built its reputation on a 50-year history of commitment to providing affordable and quality aircraft with a wide range of applications. We have a strong engineering team; almost 85% of our manufacturing processes, including production of parts and assembly, are done in our Torrance location. We also offer comprehensive overhaul services while rapidly responding to customers' needs; to keep their aircraft flying. Our commitment to our vision of keeping our customers flying has earned RHC a variety of recognition from our customers.
Robinson is an engineering focused organization that provides challenging and exciting opportunities to contribute to the future of vertical flight.
The Design Engineer - Airframe is a member of the engineering team who is responsible for the design, development, and verification of helicopter airframe structures which meet safety, weight, and cost objectives.
Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, integrate, and verify airframe structures through the product development cycle
  • Conduct preliminary analysis of loads and stress to inform design decisions
  • Create detail, assembly, and installation design definitions using CAD software
  • Oversee the development and manufacturing of prototype articles
  • Develop requirements, specifications, and processes
  • Identify, plan, and conduct tests for components, assemblies and aircraft in the laboratory, ground, and flight test environment as necessary to include test planning, conformity, instrumentation, test conduct, data analysis, and issue resolution
  • Interface with other engineers to determine the operating environment for design elements and resolve issues found during development and certification
  • Validate that designs meet customer expectations, design objectives, and the requirements of 14 CFR Part 27
  • Interface with suppliers to identify solutions to design problems, establish requirements, and ensure requirements are satisfied
  • Report project status, schedules, and risks
  • Develop processes and tools to improve the effectiveness, quality, and efficiency of the work

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Civil Engineering or a related engineering field or equivalent work experience
  • Direct experience designing metallic aircraft primary structures
  • Direct experience with computer aided design and modeling with a focus on design for manufacturing and the application of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
  • Understanding of aircraft certification requirements
  • Strong understanding of aircraft design principles, structures, loads, and mechanical systems
  • Must be a proven self-starter requiring minimal supervision, with strong problem-solving skills
  • Excellent academic record
  • Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Team-oriented, possess a positive attitude, and work well with other

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience with engineering design, fabrication, integration, development, and testing for rotorcraft applications

What can a career at RHC offer you?
We offer our teams members opportunities for professional development, training, and learning. Our performance management system is structured to provide opportunities for career focused development. Our career development is supported with a great tuition reimbursement program.
Compensation & Benefits:
We offer comprehensive group health plans including medical EPO, PPO and High Deductible Health Plans with Health Savings Account, dental, vision and other supplemental plans which begin on the day you begin employment with RHC. Our Supplemental Plans include Voluntary Life Insurance, and Pet Insurance. RHC offers a competitive 401k Plan.
If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about quality assurance in manufacturing, and your career goals include working with a dynamic team with exciting products such as helicopters, why not apply; give yourself a chance to speak with our team. Robinson Helicopter Company is known in the industry for its exceptional efficiency in the production and assembly of helicopters. We encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity!
Robinson Helicopter Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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