Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems sector is seeking a Principal Airframe Structural Design Engineer (Level 3) / Senior Principal Airframe Structural Design Engineer (Level 4) to join our team of ...
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems sector is seeking a Principal Airframe Structural Design Engineer (Level 3) / Senior Principal Airframe Structural Design Engineer (Level 4) to join our team of ...
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)
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)
Mechanical Design, Structures & Airframe - Engineer II/Senior
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$124K - $155K/yr
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 ...
Mechanical Design, Structures & Airframe - Engineer II/Senior
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$124K - $155K/yr
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 ...
Mechanical Design, Structures & Airframe - Engineer II/Senior
Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid
$124K - $155K/yr
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 ...
Mechanical Design, Structures & Airframe - Engineer II/Senior
Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid
$124K - $155K/yr
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 ...
Airframe Design Lead, Wing
$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)
Airframe Design Lead, Wing
$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)
Airframe Structural Design * Aircraft Structures Engineer * Aerospace Structures Engineer Technical Skill Keywords * Structural Design & Analysis * Aircraft Structure Design * CATIA V5 * Enovia * GD ...
Airframe Structural Design * Aircraft Structures Engineer * Aerospace Structures Engineer Technical Skill Keywords * Structural Design & Analysis * Aircraft Structure Design * CATIA V5 * Enovia * GD ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 4 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for... What You Will Be Doing As the Airframe Structural Design Engineer ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 4 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for... What You Will Be Doing As the Airframe Structural Design Engineer ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 3 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for advancing aircraft structural solutions. What You Will Be Doing As ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 3 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for advancing aircraft structural solutions. What You Will Be Doing As ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 3 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for advancing aircraft structural solutions. What You Will Be Doing As ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 3 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for advancing aircraft structural solutions. What You Will Be Doing As ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 4 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for... What You Will Be Doing As the Airframe Structural Design Engineer ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 4 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for... What You Will Be Doing As the Airframe Structural Design Engineer ...
As a Design Engineer - In Service Repair you will support the airline in-service fleet on repairs ... Experience in metallic and/or composite airframe structural repair. * Candidates should be ...
As a Design Engineer - In Service Repair you will support the airline in-service fleet on repairs ... Experience in metallic and/or composite airframe structural repair. * Candidates should be ...
As a Design Engineer - In Service Repair you will support the airline in-service fleet on repairs ... Experience in metallic and/or composite airframe structural repair. * Candidates should be ...
As a Design Engineer - In Service Repair you will support the airline in-service fleet on repairs ... Experience in metallic and/or composite airframe structural repair. * Candidates should be ...
Airframe Assembly Manufacturing Engineer
$105K - $145K/yr
As a Manufacturing Engineer on the airframe assembly team, you will play a key role in the scale-up ... Work closely with the Design and Stress teams to ensure that manufacturability guides all facets of ...
Airframe Assembly Manufacturing Engineer
$105K - $145K/yr
As a Manufacturing Engineer on the airframe assembly team, you will play a key role in the scale-up ... Work closely with the Design and Stress teams to ensure that manufacturability guides all facets of ...
Airframe Assembly Manufacturing Engineer
Marina, CA · On-site
$105K - $145K/yr
Work closely with the Design and Stress teams to ensure that manufacturability guides all facets of ... airframe production facilities. * Work with the Quality Engineering team to conduct First Article ...
Airframe Assembly Manufacturing Engineer
Marina, CA · On-site
$105K - $145K/yr
Work closely with the Design and Stress teams to ensure that manufacturability guides all facets of ... airframe production facilities. * Work with the Quality Engineering team to conduct First Article ...
Airframe Assembly Manufacturing Engineer
Marina, CA · On-site
$105K - $145K/yr
Work closely with the Design and Stress teams to ensure that manufacturability guides all facets of ... airframe production facilities. * Work with the Quality Engineering team to conduct First Article ...
Airframe Assembly Manufacturing Engineer
Marina, CA · On-site
$105K - $145K/yr
Work closely with the Design and Stress teams to ensure that manufacturability guides all facets of ... airframe production facilities. * Work with the Quality Engineering team to conduct First Article ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 3 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for advancing aircraft structural solutions. What You Will Be Doing As ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 3 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for advancing aircraft structural solutions. What You Will Be Doing As ...
Tooling Design Engineer
Huntington Beach, CA · On-site
$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 ...
Tooling Design Engineer
Huntington Beach, CA · On-site
$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 ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 4 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for... What You Will Be Doing As the Airframe Structural Design Engineer ...
You will be the Airframe Structural Design Engineer - Level 4 for the Advanced Development Programs (ADP) which is responsible for... What You Will Be Doing As the Airframe Structural Design Engineer ...
Structures Design Engineer Level 3
Renton, WA · On-site
$64 - $77/hr
No Interview Information: 1 round, via phone Bachelors degree and 8+ years of experience - Structures Design Engineer (737 Airframe) The BCA Structures 737 Airframe organization is seeking ...
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Structures Design Engineer Level 3
Renton, WA · On-site
$64 - $77/hr
No Interview Information: 1 round, via phone Bachelors degree and 8+ years of experience - Structures Design Engineer (737 Airframe) The BCA Structures 737 Airframe organization is seeking ...
Senior Mechanical Engineer, Design
$89K - $122K/yr
The Advanced Airframes Department within Raytheon Hardware Engineering provides Mechanical ... Your responsibilities will include leading design efforts, optimizing designs to meet demanding ...
Senior Mechanical Engineer, Design
$89K - $122K/yr
The Advanced Airframes Department within Raytheon Hardware Engineering provides Mechanical ... Your responsibilities will include leading design efforts, optimizing designs to meet demanding ...
Airframe Design Engineer information
See salary details
$71K - $80.8K
6% of jobs
$80.8K - $90.5K
2% of jobs
$98.5K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$90.5K - $100.3K
20% of jobs
$100.3K - $110.1K
19% of jobs
The median wage is $111.5K / yr.
$110.1K - $119.9K
15% of jobs
$128.5K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$119.9K - $129.6K
14% of jobs
$129.6K - $139.4K
4% of jobs
$139.4K - $149.2K
6% of jobs
$149.2K - $159K
6% of jobs
$159K - $168.7K
4% of jobs
$168.7K - $178.5K
2% of jobs
$71K
$120.2K
$178.5K
How much do airframe design engineer jobs pay per year?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Airframe Design Engineer position, and why are they important?
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 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.

Full-time
Medical, Life, PTO
Posted 7 days ago
Northrop Grumman rating
8.1
Based on 349 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
109th of 527 rated manufacturers
Job description
Please note that this opportunity is contingent on program funding. Start dates are determined after funding confirmation.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems sector is seeking a Principal Airframe Structural Design Engineer (Level 3) / Senior Principal Airframe Structural Design Engineer (Level 4) to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals in defining the future. This position will be located in Melbourne, FL.
In this role, you will work within an Integrated Product Team (IPT) environment to develop primary and secondary metal and composite aircraft structure parts and assemblies, lead design and trade study efforts, mentor less experienced engineers, and develop advanced design solutions to complex technical problems. The successful candidate possesses substantial experience with design and fabrication techniques for aircraft primary structural details, assemblies, and installations utilizing both metallic and composite materials, conventional fastening methods, bonded primary structures, major structural joint definition, and load path development.
Responsibilities may include:
- Design primary and secondary aircraft structural parts, assemblies, and installations using metallic and/or composite materials for new aircraft design and/or modifications to existing aircraft
- Working within or leading an IPT, interfaces with IPT/Program leadership, suppliers, customers, and other technical disciplines to independently prepare and lead the preparation of engineering design solutions to challenging problems through the development of Product Definition Packages
- Collaborate with structural analysis, manufacturing, materials and processes, and other stakeholders to produce flight weight structures
- Employ GD&T and Model Based Engineering (MBE) methods in support of Digital Transformation to create airframe layouts and produce engineering definitions
- Assist team to develop/document best practices and mentor less experienced engineers
Basic Qualifications:
This requisition may be filled at an Principal Airframe Structural Design Engineer (Level 3) OR Senior Principal Airframe Structural Design Engineer (Level 4) level based on the qualifications below.
Principal Airframe Structural Design Engineer (Level 3)
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Must have a Bachelor’s Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline and 5 years of related professional/military experience; OR a Master’s Degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of related professional/military experience; OR a Ph.D. in a STEM discipline and 1 year of related professional/military experience.
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Your ability to obtain and/or transfer and maintain the final adjudicated U.S. government Secret clearance and any program access(es) required for the position within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the Company.
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Professional experience designing primary and/or secondary composite aircraft parts/components, assemblies, and/or installations
Senior Principal Airframe Structural Design Engineer (Level 4)
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Must have a Bachelor’s Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline and 8 years of related professional/military experience; OR a Master’s Degree in a STEM discipline and 6 years of related professional/military experience; OR a Ph.D. in a STEM discipline and 4 years of related professional/military experience.
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Your ability to obtain and/or transfer and maintain the final adjudicated U.S. government Secret clearance and any program access(es) required for the position within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the Company.
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Professional experience designing primary and/or secondary composite aircraft parts/components, assemblies, and/or installations
Preferred Qualifications:
- Degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering
- Proficiency with NX Solid Modelling or similar 3D modeling software
- Proficiency with Teamcenter
- Understanding of GD&T and MBE methods
- Final adjudicated government Secret clearance
#AS-FA3
We offer flexible work arrangements, 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.
Primary Level Salary Range: $98,400.00 - $147,600.00 Secondary Level Salary Range: $122,800.00 - $184,200.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.What Northrop Grumman employees say
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About Northrop Grumman
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At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.
Industry
Space research administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Falls Church, VA, US
Year founded
1939