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Airframe Stress Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Senior/Principal Airframe Stress Engineer

Manassas, VA · Hybrid

$58.75 - $80.50/hr

The Role As a Senior or Principal Airframe Stress Engineer, you will lead structural analysis efforts supporting the development, certification, and production of Electra's flagship hybrid-electric ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Airframe Stress Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$185K - $254K/yr

This role is an exciting position within the structures engineering team, as it allows for the ... Experience with both metallic and composite airframe structures * Experience supporting rotorcraft ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Airframe Stress Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$185K - $254K/yr

This role is an exciting position within the structures engineering team, as it allows for the ... Experience with both metallic and composite airframe structures * Experience supporting rotorcraft ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Airframe Stress Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$185K - $254K/yr

This role is an exciting position within the structures engineering team, as it allows for the ... Experience with both metallic and composite airframe structures * Experience supporting rotorcraft ...

Saratech

Stress Engineer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Saratech is seeking a Stress Engineer. You will assist the Engineering Services/Design team with ... Support drawing release of airframe details, installations, and assemblies. * Develop structural ...

Saratech Inc

Stress Engineer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$56.25 - $77/hr

Support drawing release of airframe details, installations, and assemblies. * Develop structural ... Engineering or related discipline. * Minimum of ten (12) years stress analysis experience with ...

Saratech

Stress Engineer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Saratech is seeking a Stress Engineer. You will assist the Engineering Services/Design team with ... Support drawing release of airframe details, installations, and assemblies.Develop structural ...

Airbus

Stress Engineer (Contract)

Wichita, KS · On-site

$52.50 - $72/hr

Experience in metallic/composite airframe structures. * Capable of working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment both independently and collectively. * Up to ~5 % Domestic and very limited possible ...

Ag

Stress Engineer (Contract)

Wichita, KS

$52.50 - $72/hr

Experience in metallic/composite airframe structures. * Capable of working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment both independently and collectively. * Up to ~5 % Domestic and very limited possible ...

Saratech, Inc.

Stress Engineer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$51.50 - $70.75/hr

Saratech is seeking a Stress Engineer. You will assist the Engineering Services/Design team with ... Support drawing release of airframe details, installations, and assemblies. * Develop structural ...

PDS Tech Commercial

Stress Analysis

Savannah, GA · On-site

$87.40/hr

Develop standards, processes, and best practices for engineering activities * Conduct static and fatigue analysis of metallic and composite airframe structures * Support design and stress analysis ...

General Atomics

Stress Engineer

Poway, CA · On-site

$60 - $82.25/hr

We have an exciting opportunity for a Staff Stress Engineer to join our Airframe Integrity Group at GA-ASI, located in Poway, CA. Under general supervision with limited review, this position is ...

Andromeda Systems, Inc

Stress Engineer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$54.50 - $74.50/hr

... experience in airframe analysis * Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering from a U.S ... Product development work experience as a stress engineer At ASI, we understand that everyone ...

General Atomics

Stress Engineer

Poway, CA · On-site

$60 - $82.25/hr

We have an exciting opportunity for a Staff Stress Engineer to join our Airframe Integrity Group at GA-ASI, located in Poway, CA. Under general supervision with limited review, this position is ...

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Airframe Stress Engineer information

See salary details

$68.5K

$109.4K

$148.5K

How much do airframe stress engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for airframe stress engineer in the United States is $109,399.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an airframe stress engineer?

Airframe Stress Engineers are specialized professionals who analyze and evaluate the structural integrity of aircraft frames and components. They use engineering principles and advanced software to ensure that airframes can withstand various stresses during flight, such as pressure, temperature changes, and aerodynamic forces. Their work involves testing materials, performing simulations, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. By identifying potential weaknesses, they help maintain the safety and performance of aircraft throughout their lifecycle.

What are some typical challenges an airframe stress engineer faces when working on new aircraft designs?

Airframe Stress Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing structural integrity with weight reduction, ensuring compliance with strict aerospace regulations, and coordinating design changes with cross-functional teams. They must analyze complex load paths and predict how new materials or innovative designs will behave under stress, which requires both technical expertise and adaptability. Frequent collaboration with design, manufacturing, and testing teams is essential to address issues early and optimize the structure for safety, performance, and manufacturability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airframe stress engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airframe Stress Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, with expertise in structural analysis and finite element methods, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with analysis software such as NASTRAN, PATRAN, and CATIA, as well as familiarity with industry standards and certification processes, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with design teams and convey complex findings clearly. These skills ensure the safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance of aircraft structures throughout the design and certification process.

What is the difference between Airframe Stress Engineer vs Structural Analysis Engineer?

AspectAirframe Stress EngineerStructural Analysis Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, often with stress analysis certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Civil, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering, with structural analysis certifications
Work EnvironmentAircraft manufacturing, aerospace companies, design teamsConstruction, aerospace, automotive, or manufacturing industries
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace and aircraft designBroader industry use including aerospace, civil, and mechanical sectors

The Airframe Stress Engineer focuses on analyzing and ensuring the structural integrity of aircraft airframes under various loads, while the Structural Analysis Engineer applies similar principles across different industries to evaluate structural components. Both roles require strong engineering backgrounds and stress analysis skills, but the Airframe Stress Engineer specializes specifically in aerospace applications.

What cities are hiring for Airframe Stress Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Airframe Stress Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Airframe Stress Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Airframe Stress Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Airframe Stress Engineer jobs?

For Airframe Stress Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Airframe Stress Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,399 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Senior/Principal Airframe Stress Engineer

Manassas, VA • Hybrid

Electra
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Electraexternal

$58.75 - $80.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 — a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage — and this role is no exception.

About Electra

At Electra, we're building hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft that redefine regional air travel. Our technology enables aircraft to take off and land in soccer field-sized spaces, unlocking thousands of new operating locations and enabling what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, efficient, point-to-point travel closer to where people live and work.

A global company headquartered in Manassas, VA, with additional operations in Switzerland, Electra is backed by industry leaders and is advancing toward certification. We're a growing team of innovators working at the forefront of sustainable aviation-every hire plays a critical role in shaping the future of flight.

The Role

As a Senior or Principal Airframe Stress Engineer, you will lead structural analysis efforts supporting the development, certification, and production of Electra's flagship hybrid-electric eSTOL aircraft. This role is responsible for ensuring the structural integrity of metallic and composite airframe components through detailed analysis, testing, and certification substantiation.

You will work closely with design engineering, loads, materials & processes, manufacturing, structural test, suppliers, and certification teams to develop robust airframe structures that meet performance, safety, and FAA certification requirements. The ideal candidate combines deep structural analysis expertise with strong engineering judgment and the ability to influence aircraft design decisions throughout the product lifecycle.

What You'll Do
  • Support development of major airframe structures from preliminary design through certification, production launch, and manufacturing ramp-up
  • Perform static strength, fatigue, and durability analyses for metallic and composite aircraft structures
  • Develop structural substantiation methods and analysis plans supporting FAA Part 23 type certification
  • Create and validate finite element models using FEMAP/Nastran or equivalent analysis tools
  • Perform detailed hand calculations using industry-standard methodologies and references including:
    • Bruhn
    • Niu
    • Roark
    • ESDU
    • Classical mechanics of materials approaches
  • Collaborate with loads, design, materials & processes, manufacturing, structural test, and certification teams throughout the entire development process
  • Support trade studies and structural design optimization activities
  • Define structural analysis requirements and certification substantiation plans
  • Review and approve design dispositions and engineering analyses
  • Support component, subassembly, and full-scale structural testing activities, including:
    • Test planning
    • Requirements definition
    • Instrumentation support
    • Data review
    • Test reporting
  • Prepare structural substantiation reports and certification documentation
  • Present structural analyses and recommendations during internal and external design reviews
  • Support supplier technical reviews and provide guidance on structural analysis methodologies
  • Contribute to the establishment of structural analysis processes, best practices, and design standards
What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline
  • Experience in airframe structural analysis supporting aircraft development programs
  • Strong knowledge of metallic and composite aircraft structures
  • Experience supporting FAA Part 23 and/or Part 25 aircraft certification programs
  • Advanced proficiency with FEMAP/Nastran or equivalent finite element analysis tools
  • Experience with NX or similar CAD platforms
  • Strong understanding of:
    • Aircraft loads
    • Free body diagrams
    • Structural load paths
    • Mechanics of materials
    • Structural stability and failure modes
  • Advanced proficiency performing both hand calculations and finite element analyses
  • Experience developing structural substantiation reports and certification documentation
  • Strong technical writing and communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teams
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
  • Experience supporting aircraft programs from conceptual design through certification and production
  • Experience with composite airframe design and certification
  • Experience supporting structural testing and correlation of analytical models
  • Familiarity with hybrid-electric, eSTOL, eVTOL, or advanced air mobility aircraft programs
  • Experience working directly with regulatory authorities during certification efforts
  • Experience mentoring engineers and reviewing structural analyses
  • U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder) preferred
Location & Travel

Location: Manassas, VA Headquarters. This position requires regular onsite presence to support collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, and test teams.

Travel: Minimal

Leveling Expectations

Level (Senior or Principal) will be determined based on the candidate's experience, technical expertise, demonstrated leadership, and ability to influence aircraft development decisions.

Both levels require expertise in aircraft structural analysis, certification substantiation, and aircraft development. Differentiation is based on technical leadership, scope of responsibility, independence, and organizational influence.

Senior Airframe Stress Engineer (8+ Years)
  • Demonstrates strong expertise in aircraft structural analysis and airframe certification
  • Independently performs static, fatigue, and damage tolerance analyses
  • Develops structural substantiation packages for FAA certification activities
  • Creates and validates finite element models and analytical methodologies
  • Collaborates effectively across design, loads, certification, and test organizations
  • Supports structural testing, correlation activities, and certification efforts
  • Provides technical guidance within assigned programs and workstreams
  • Drives resolution of complex structural engineering challenges with minimal supervision
Principal Airframe Stress Engineer (10+ Years)
  • Recognized subject matter expert in aircraft structural analysis and certification
  • Leads major structural development efforts across large airframe assemblies and programs
  • Establishes structural analysis methodologies, standards, and best practices
  • Serves as a key technical authority for certification substantiation strategies
  • Drives structural architecture decisions balancing weight, manufacturability, performance, and certification requirements
  • Leads critical technical reviews and influences program-level engineering decisions
  • Mentors engineers across the organization and elevates overall technical capability
  • Acts as a primary interface with certification authorities, suppliers, and external partners on structural matters
  • Provides strategic technical leadership throughout aircraft development, certification, and production readiness efforts

This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

Compensation Range
$130,000—$180,000 USD

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and equity
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
  • Paid winter break
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
  • Free on-site parking

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.