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Contractual Aircraft Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VTG

Aircraft Mechanic II

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

$47.32/hr

Perform check out, removal and replacement of Cartridge Activated Devices (CAD). Do you have what ... contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range.

VTG

Aircraft Mechanic III

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

$49.63/hr

Perform check out, removal and replacement of Cartridge Activated Devices (CAD). Do you have what ... contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range.

VTG

Aircraft Mechanic II

Patuxent River, MD

$47.32/hr

Perform check out, removal and replacement of Cartridge Activated Devices (CAD). Do you have what ... include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range.

New

VTG

Aircraft Mechanic III

Patuxent River, MD

$49.63/hr

Perform check out, removal and replacement of Cartridge Activated Devices (CAD). Do you have what ... include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range.

The Structures Company

Project Engineer 4

Berkeley, MO · On-site

$80/hr

... contractual deliverable plans and required reports. * Supports Project Management of obsolescence mitigation processes within Product or Program IPTs. * Understands aircraft and weapons design or ...

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Contractual Aircraft Design information

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$120K

$153K

$176K

How much do contractual aircraft design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual aircraft design in the United States is $152,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $138,500.00 and $166,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in contractual aircraft design roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in contractual aircraft design often face challenges such as rapidly adapting to new teams and company processes, working within tight project deadlines, and quickly understanding complex client requirements. To succeed, it's important to have strong communication skills, flexibility, and the ability to learn new tools or workflows quickly. Networking with colleagues and leveraging resources from previous contracts can also help ease transitions and ensure high productivity. Staying organized and proactive can make it easier to manage multiple priorities and deliver quality designs within stipulated timelines.

What is contractual aircraft design?

Contractual aircraft design refers to the stage in the aircraft development process where the preliminary design is refined and detailed to meet specific customer requirements outlined in a contract. At this stage, engineers focus on ensuring that the aircraft's performance, safety, and cost meet the agreed-upon specifications. The process involves in-depth analysis, optimization, and documentation to support the final agreement before moving into full-scale development and production. Contractual aircraft design is critical because it forms the basis of legal and technical commitments between the manufacturer and the customer.

What is the difference between Contractual Aircraft Design vs Aircraft Design Engineer?

AspectContractual Aircraft DesignAircraft Design Engineer
CredentialsRelevant engineering degrees, certifications, and contractual experienceEngineering degree, professional licensure, design certifications
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often freelance or consulting roles with multiple clientsFull-time employment within aerospace companies or design teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by aerospace contractors, consulting firms, and freelance professionalsEmployed by aircraft manufacturers, aerospace firms, and R&D departments
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding contractual roles, project scope, and freelance opportunitiesDesign responsibilities, career path, and engineering tasks

Contractual Aircraft Design involves project-based, often freelance work with multiple clients, focusing on specific design tasks under contractual agreements. In contrast, Aircraft Design Engineers are typically employed full-time within aerospace companies, working on comprehensive aircraft development. Both roles require engineering credentials, but their work environment and employment structure differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contractual Aircraft Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contractual Aircraft Designer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, aerodynamics, and structural analysis, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), finite element analysis tools, and familiarity with industry regulations and certification processes is essential. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and clients. These competencies ensure innovative, safe, and compliant aircraft designs that meet contractual and regulatory requirements within project timelines.
More about Contractual Aircraft Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Contractual Aircraft Design jobs? Cities with the most Contractual Aircraft Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft Design jobs? The most popular types of Aircraft Design jobs are:
What states have the most Contractual Aircraft Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Contractual Aircraft Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contractual Aircraft Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contractual Aircraft Design jobs are:
Contractual Aircraft Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contractual Aircraft Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,999 per year, or $73.6 per hour.

General Aircraft Mechanic - DEFENSE

The Structures Company

Belle Chasse, LA • On-site

$35 - $47/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted yesterday

Job description

JOB TITLE: General Aircraft Mechanic - DEFENSE
LOCATION: NAS New Orleans Belle Chasse, LA
PAY RATE: $35-47/hour

We are a national aerospace and defense staffing agency seeking highly qualified candidates for a position with a top-tier client.

Job Details:

  • Job Type: Contract (12 months with potential for extension)

  • Clearance: Secret Clearance required prior to start (interim acceptable).

  • Shift: Full-time, onsite, first shift (6:30 AM – 3:00 PM).

  • Overtime: As needed.

  • Travel: Possible international travel to Scotland, Greece, or Kuwait supporting U.S. military bases.

  • Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation

  • Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna)

  • Perks: Bonus potential + Priority access via Tier 1 supplier

  • Openings Nationwide: Thousands of opportunities across the U.S.

Qualifying Questions:

  • Are you a U.S. citizen and able to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance?

  • Do you meet the educational and experience requirements for this role?

  • Can you commute to the job location or relocate if necessary?

Summary: 

  • Assemble, disassemble, modify, and repair aerospace vehicle systems and components.

  • Configure aerospace vehicles and bench test equipment.

  • Troubleshoot pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical systems to isolate and repair faults.

  • Perform validation and verification testing of aircraft systems and components.

  • Document repairs, inspections, modifications, and test results to ensure contractual and regulatory compliance.

  • Inspect components and verify repairs for flight worthiness requirements.

  • Support and oversee training activities.

  • Perform end-of-runway, post-flight, pre-flight, thru-flight, and phase inspections.

  • Perform coordinated combat turns and hot pit refuels.

  • Diagnose and resolve aircraft maintenance issues using technical publications and maintenance manuals.

  • Remove/install aircraft components and conduct operational and functional checks.

  • Adjust, align, and rig aircraft systems.

  • Perform aircraft jacking, lifting, towing, and ground equipment operations.

  • Inspect aircraft for corrosion prevention and repair needs.

  • Review maintenance records, automated systems, and documentation for accuracy and completeness.

  • Inventory and maintain aircraft equipment.

  • Work under general direction in a fast-paced maintenance environment.

Requirements:

  • Secret Clearance required prior to start (interim acceptable).

  • Minimum 5 years of military fighter aircraft maintenance experience.

  • Minimum 1 year of experience reading and interpreting technical publications and maintenance manuals.

  • Ability to lift up to 35 pounds.

  • Must meet U.S. export compliance requirements.

  • Must be a U.S. citizen to comply with security clearance requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • F-18 (AM or AD) qualifications.

  • Experience with Navy 4790.2 maintenance requirements.

  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions with exposure to loud noise and exhaust fumes.

  • Applicable aircraft maintenance certifications or equivalent experience.

About Us:

The Structures Company is a premier national aerospace and defense staffing agency specializing in contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire placements. We deliver expert workforce solutions across engineering, IT, production, maintenance, and support roles.

As trusted partners to leading aerospace and defense OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, we connect professionals with career opportunities to grow and excel in aviation, aerospace, and defense.

Keywords: aerospace, aviation, engineering, maintenance, aircraft design, defense

Take your career to new heights—apply today!

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