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Structural Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JetZero

Senior Structural Test Engineer

Greensboro, NC

$97K - $132K/yr

Lead the planning, execution, and analysis of engineering development testing, manufacturing development articles, and certification tests for the North Carolina Composites Center (NC3) laboratory.

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

STRUCTURES TEST ENGINEER (STARSHIP) This position is a test engineer for the Starship Structural Test team. This team develops, designs, builds, and executes large system-level static and dynamic ...

Apex

Spacecraft Structures Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $187K/yr

About the Role Spacecraft Structures Test Engineer Apex is looking for a Spacecraft Structures Test ... Own structural test strategy and execution across components, subsystems, and fully integrated ...

ARA

Senior Structural Test Engineering Lead

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$91K - $124K/yr

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking a Senior Engineer or Senior Scientist to lead ... What you'll do as a Senior Structural Test Engineering Lead * Lead the design, prediction, and ...

Beyond Reach Labs

Development Test Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

As an engineering-driven organization, you will be at the forefront of the company's key technology ... Design, fabricate, and instrument test rigs and stands for deployable mechanisms, structural test ...

Vast

Structures Test Technician

Mojave, CA · On-site

$22.87 - $32.46/hr

... structural test loads. * Service and maintain the GN2 (gaseous nitrogen) pressurization system, including regulators, valves, and associated high-pressure plumbing. * Support Test Engineers in the ...

Actalent

Structural Test Technician

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Structural Test Technician As a Structural Test Technician, you will play a vital role within an ... Essential Skills * 2-4 years of professional experience in an engineering technician capacity or ...

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Structural Test Engineer information

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How much do structural test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural test engineer in the United States is $75,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $82,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a structural test engineer do?

A Structural Test Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and conducting tests on structures and components to ensure they meet safety, reliability, and regulatory standards. They analyze materials and structural behavior under various loads and conditions, using both physical testing and simulation tools. Their role often involves working with aerospace, automotive, civil, or manufacturing industries to validate designs, troubleshoot failures, and recommend improvements. The findings from their tests help inform design decisions and ensure the integrity and safety of products and structures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a structural test engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Structural Test Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or civil engineering, experience with structural analysis, and a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and finite element analysis (FEA) tools is typically required, along with knowledge of industry standards and certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure accurate testing, reliable results, and safe, innovative solutions for structural systems.

How does a structural test engineer typically collaborate with design and manufacturing teams during a project?

Structural Test Engineers play a key role in bridging the gap between design, testing, and manufacturing teams. They work closely with design engineers to understand product specifications and identify critical areas for structural testing. During prototype and production phases, they coordinate with manufacturing teams to ensure that test samples accurately reflect intended build quality and incorporate feedback from test results to optimize designs. This collaborative approach ensures that products meet safety and performance standards while streamlining the development process.

What is the difference between Structural Test Engineer vs Civil Test Engineer?

AspectStructural Test EngineerCivil Test Engineer
CertificationsPE, SE, NDT certificationsPE, ACI certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, construction sites, manufacturing plantsConstruction sites, laboratories, field testing locations
Industry UsageStructural components, aerospace, automotive, manufacturingBuildings, infrastructure, transportation projects

Both roles focus on testing structural components, but Structural Test Engineers primarily work on testing structural elements in manufacturing or aerospace settings, while Civil Test Engineers focus on testing construction materials and infrastructure components. The choice depends on the industry and specific testing environment.

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What states have the most Structural Test Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Structural Test Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Structural Test Engineer jobs?

For Structural Test Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Structural Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,000 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Senior Structural Test Engineer

Greensboro, NC

JetZero
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about JetZeroexternal

$97K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

What You'll Do
  • Lead the planning, execution, and analysis of engineering development testing, manufacturing development articles, and certification tests for the North Carolina Composites Center (NC3) laboratory.
  • Develop, review, and approve test plans, procedures, verification matrices, and configuration baselines.
  • Define test objectives, success criteria, and sequencing aligned with mission requirements and airframe architecture.
  • Lead coordination across engineering disciplines on detailed definition of laboratory requirements & architecture, to ensure laboratories meet near-term and long-term objectives.
  • Support supply chain in supply engagement for acquisition of capital assets for the laboratories.
  • Coordinate across engineering disciplines to ensure system readiness, interface compatibility, and controlled configuration changes.
  • Lead real-time test execution, including monitoring, troubleshooting, and coordination with engineering and operations teams.
  • Perform and oversee post-test data analysis, discrepancy resolution, and formal test reporting.
  • Mentor junior and mid-level engineers, fostering technical growth and disciplined engineering practices.
  • Drive continuous improvement of test processes, documentation, and lab infrastructure.
  • Support design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and customer engagements.
  • Contribute to accreditation, certification, or compliance activities as required.
What You Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Engineering, or related technical field.
  • 15+ years of experience in test engineering, materials & processes engineering, or composites research & development.
  • Strong understanding of building block certification campaign requirements.
  • Strong understanding of composites manufacturing development, and importance of design for manufacturing standards.
  • Demonstrated experience authoring test plans, procedures, and formal test documentation.
  • Hands-on experience with test instrumentation, automation, and troubleshooting complex systems.
  • Proven ability to lead technical teams and manage lab environments.
  • Excellent technical judgment, communication skills, and decision-making in dynamic test environments.
Preferred Skills & Qualifications
  • Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
  • Prior leadership of test labs or composite airframe development facilities.
Compensation: 

Our compensation package is a blend of base salary and equity options for eligible employees. The range for this role is $160,000-180,000. We consider a number of factors when presenting a final offer, including geography, internal equity and years of experience and expertise.  

Benefits 
  • Unlimited PTO 
  • 10 paid holidays 
  • 401(k) 
  • Medical, Dental, Vision 
  • Disability Insurance 
  • Life Insurance 
  • Equity tax advisory services 
  • Supportive work culture 

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