Lead Airframe Structures Engineer

Lead Airframe Structures Engineer - Lead the Structural Design of a Next-Generation Aircraft PlatformSan Diego, California | On-siteOpportunity SummaryJoin a fast-growing aerospace company developing a new generation of highly efficient aircraft designed to improve commercial and defense aviation. The team is advancing an innovative aircraft platform that combines advanced aerodynamics, lightweight structures, and modern manufacturing techniques to deliver significant improvements in efficiency, payload capability, and operational performance. As the Lead Airframe Structures Engineer, you will own the structural development strategy for the aircraft while leading a team responsible for airframe design from early concept through first flight. This role combines hands-on engineering with technical leadership, requiring close collaboration across design, analysis, manufacturing, suppliers, and executive leadership to ensure successful execution of critical development milestones.About UsWe are an engineering-driven aerospace company developing advanced aircraft platforms that challenge traditional aircraft design. Backed by strong commercial momentum and an experienced leadership team, we are building an integrated engineering organization focused on bringing innovative aviation technologies from concept into production through rapid development, rigorous testing, and scalable manufacturing.Job DutiesLead the overall structural design strategy for the aircraft from concept development through flight testingProvide technical leadership for the structures engineering team while mentoring and developing engineersOwn structural architecture, design decisions, technical execution, and project schedulesDirect airframe trade studies to optimize weight, manufacturability, performance, and costDesign primary and secondary aircraft structures using composite and metallic materialsCoordinate closely with manufacturing, structural analysis, systems engineering, and supply chain teamsServe as the primary engineering interface for structural suppliers and manufacturing partnersReview engineering deliverables and ensure design quality, technical accuracy, and schedule executionPerform or oversee structural sizing, joint design, and preliminary stress assessments using analytical methods and FEAIdentify technical risks, develop mitigation plans, and drive engineering issues to resolutionPartner with executive leadership to align technical priorities with overall program objectivesSupport aircraft integration, ground testing, and first-flight readiness activitiesQualificationsBachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline10+ years of experience designing aircraft structures or closely related aerospace hardwareExperience leading structural engineering efforts on complex aerospace development programsStrong understanding of aircraft load paths, structural mechanics, and airframe architectureExpertise designing composite aircraft structures and structural assembliesExperience designing bonded and mechanically fastened jointsProficiency with modern 3D CAD software such as NX, CATIA, or SolidWorksExperience performing structural sizing using hand calculations and finite element analysisFamiliarity with design for manufacturing, tooling development, and production planningWorking knowledge of FAA Part 23 or Part 25 certification requirementsStrong leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skillsComfortable working in a fast-paced product development environment with evolving prioritiesPreferred ExperienceExperience leading aircraft development from program kickoff through productionBackground supporting rapid aircraft development or prototype flight programsHands-on experience with composite fabrication and assemblyStructural ground testing or certification testing experiencePrevious experience supporting first-flight or flight test campaignsWhy Join UsOpportunity to help define the structural architecture of a next-generation aircraft platformSignificant technical ownership and influence over major engineering decisionsWork alongside experienced aerospace engineers in a highly collaborative environmentEquity ownership and career growth within a rapidly expanding engineering organizationHealth, dental, and vision insurance401(k) retirement planUnlimited paid time offOn-site fitness facilityCompensation Details$150,000 - $190,000