Finite Element Analysis Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

About ElectraAt 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 RoleAs 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 DoSupport development of major airframe structures from preliminary design through certification, production launch, and manufacturing ramp-upPerform static strength, fatigue, and durability analyses for metallic and composite aircraft structuresDevelop structural substantiation methods and analysis plans supporting FAA Part 23 type certificationCreate and validate finite element models using FEMAP/Nastran or equivalent analysis toolsPerform detailed hand calculations using industry-standard methodologies and references including:BruhnNiuRoarkESDUClassical mechanics of materials approachesCollaborate with loads, design, materials & processes, manufacturing, structural test, and certification teams throughout the entire development processSupport trade studies and structural design optimization activitiesDefine structural analysis requirements and certification substantiation plansReview and approve design dispositions and engineering analysesSupport component, subassembly, and full-scale structural testing activities, including:Test planningRequirements definitionInstrumentation supportData reviewTest reportingPrepare structural substantiation reports and certification documentationPresent structural analyses and recommendations during internal and external design reviewsSupport supplier technical reviews and provide guidance on structural analysis methodologiesContribute to the establishment of structural analysis processes, best practices, and design standardsWhat You'll BringBachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering disciplineExperience in airframe structural analysis supporting aircraft development programsStrong knowledge of metallic and composite aircraft structuresExperience supporting FAA Part 23 and/or Part 25 aircraft certification programsAdvanced proficiency with FEMAP/Nastran or equivalent finite element analysis toolsExperience with NX or similar CAD platformsStrong understanding of:Aircraft loadsFree body diagramsStructural load pathsMechanics of materialsStructural stability and failure modesAdvanced proficiency performing both hand calculations and finite element analysesExperience developing structural substantiation reports and certification documentationStrong technical writing and communication skillsAbility to work effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teamsStrong analytical and problem-solving capabilitiesPreferred QualificationsMaster's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related disciplineExperience supporting aircraft programs from conceptual design through certification and productionExperience with composite airframe design and certificationExperience supporting structural testing and correlation of analytical modelsFamiliarity with hybrid-electric, eSTOL, eVTOL, or advanced air mobility aircraft programsExperience working directly with regulatory authorities during certification effortsExperience mentoring engineers and reviewing structural analysesU.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder) preferredLocation & TravelLocation: Manassas, VA Headquarters. This position requires regular onsite presence to support collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, and test teams.Travel: MinimalLeveling ExpectationsLevel (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 certificationIndependently performs static, fatigue, and damage tolerance analysesDevelops structural substantiation packages for FAA certification activitiesCreates and validates finite element models and analytical methodologiesCollaborates effectively across design, loads, certification, and test organizationsSupports structural testing, correlation activities, and certification effortsProvides technical guidance within assigned programs and workstreamsDrives resolution of complex structural engineering challenges with minimal supervisionPrincipal Airframe Stress Engineer (10+ Years)Recognized subject matter expert in aircraft structural analysis and certificationLeads major structural development efforts across large airframe assemblies and programsEstablishes structural analysis methodologies, standards, and best practicesServes as a key technical authority for certification substantiation strategiesDrives structural architecture decisions balancing weight, manufacturability, performance, and certification requirementsLeads critical technical reviews and influences program-level engineering decisionsMentors engineers across the organization and elevates overall technical capabilityActs as a primary interface with certification authorities, suppliers, and external partners on structural mattersProvides strategic technical leadership throughout aircraft development, certification, and production readiness effortsCompensation$130,000.00 – $180,000.00 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on relevant experience, education, skills, level, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus, equity eligibility, and comprehensive benefits.What We OfferCompetitive salary and equityMedical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insuranceGenerous PTO, sick leave, and company holidaysPaid winter break401(k) with immediate vestingFree catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquartersFree on-site parkingOpportunity to help design, certify, and bring to market a groundbreaking hybrid-electric aircraft that will redefine regional air mobility through Direct Aviation.