Senior Engineer, Structural Analyst (R6027)

What you'll do:

• Assist in building and refining finite element models (FEM) to evaluate the structural performance of UAV components.
• Perform static, modal, fatigue, and vibration analyses to assess stress, deformation, and durability.
• Conduct hand calculations to validate FEA results, ensuring accuracy and structural reliability.
• Work with design engineers to optimize airframe structures, balancing weight, strength, and manufacturability.
• Support the development of test plans for structural validation, including quasi-static, vibration, and shock testing.
• Analyze flight telemetry and structural test data to improve modeling accuracy and correlate predictions with real-world performance.
• Assist in defining load cases, material properties, and design margins for UAV airframe and mechanical components.
• Document and present structural analysis reports and technical recommendations to engineering teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure structural requirements align with system performance goals.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of structural analysis methodologies, tools, and best practices.

Required qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in structural analysis, finite element modeling, or aircraft loads analysis AND B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field. Alternatively, 3+ years of experience AND a M.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
• Experience with FEA tools (FEMAP, NASTRAN, HyperWorks, ANSYS, Patran, or similar).
• Ability to perform hand calculations for structural strength and stability analysis.
• Knowledge of composite materials and lightweight aerospace structures.
• Familiarity with mechanical testing methods (static, vibration, and/or fatigue).
• Proficiency with data analysis tools (Excel, MATLAB, Python, or similar).
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a team environment.
• Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience in aircraft structural design, UAV airframe development, or aerospace testing.
• Hands-on experience with structural testing.
• Exposure to CAD software (NX, Catia, SolidWorks) and PLM tools (Teamcenter or similar).
• Understanding of aerospace industry standards, structural certification processes, and material selection.
• Fatigue and damage tolerance (DaDT) experience including crack initiation and crack growth