Aircraft Structures Engineer

Natilus is building the next generation of aviation through the development of blended-wing-body aircraft, delivering a step-change in overall efficiency. Our growing family of aircraft is designed to make air travel more sustainable while fundamentally improving the economics of commercial flight and the operational effectiveness of defense logistics.By combining advanced aerodynamics with innovative design, Natilus aircraft achieve exceptional fuel efficiency, increased payload capacity, and seamless compatibility with existing airport infrastructure. With hundreds of aircraft valued in the billions of dollars already on order, we are redefining how aircraft are designed, built, and operated, representing a meaningful evolution in modern aviationWork SummaryNatilus is seeking a Aircraft Structures Engineer to join our team in San Diego, CA. In this role, you will be focused on the detailed design, analysis, and structural optimization of composite and metallic airframe components. You will take ownership of a variety of parts from initial design through to first flight, working closely with the manufacturing and analysis teams.Main ResponsibilitiesApply technical knowledge to the aircraft structural design from concept through first flightCreate and maintain CAD models and drawings of advanced aircraft components and assembliesProduce airframe structural layouts and configurations including joint layouts, preliminary structure sizing, interface controls, and assembly definitionsDevelop detailed designs of composite parts for manufacturingCoordinate and collaborate with members of the manufacturing and analysis teamsManage tolerance stackupsMeet engineering deliverables, identify issues, and operate corrective actions as neededRequirementsMinimum of 5 years of experience as an airframe design engineer or in a closely related roleBachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent practical experienceStrong foundational understanding of aircraft load paths and structural behaviorExperience designing bolted and bonded jointsExpert-level knowledge of composite structures, including detailed design and fabrication methodsProficiency with NX, CATIA, or SolidWorksExperience with rapid prototype aircraft structures from conceptual and preliminary design through buildExperience with design-for-build manufacturing, determinate assembly, manufacturing planning, and tooling designExperience performing initial part and joint sizing using hand calculations or FEAFamiliarity with FAA Part 23 and 25 requirementsDesired ExperienceKickoff through production program experienceRapid prototype program experienceHands-on build experienceStructural testing experienceCore BehaviorsBuild trust through ownership, transparency, and follow-throughCommunicates clearly, directly, and respectfully across teamsLead by example and model expected behaviorsAbility to give and receive direct, constructive feedbackComfortable operating in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with evolving prioritiesTravel RequirementsOccasional travel and on-site work at the local hangar may be requiredBenefitsHealth Care Plan (Medica, Dental, Vision)Retirement Plan – 401kUnlimited PTOOnsite Gym AccessNatilus Inc. hires solely based on qualifications, merit and competence. Natilus Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Natilus Inc. does not hire on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.Please note: Recruiters will never ask for sensitive personal or financial information during the application phase