Aerospace Structures Engineer

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Stock options

Bonuses

Flexible hybrid work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Aerospace Structures Engineer for a hybrid role with our client, an aerospace design and manufacturing firm near Queenstown. You will design, analyze, and test aircraft structures, applying FEA to ensure safety, weight efficiency, and certification readiness.

Lead complex structural concepts for composites and metals, collaborate with manufacturing, and contribute to lightweight, manufacturable solutions in a modern hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering with a focus on structures.
• Minimum 6 years' experience in aerospace structural design and analysis.
• Proficiency with FEA software (ANSYS, NASTRAN/Patran) and CAD tools.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and validate aircraft primary and secondary structures.
• Perform stress analysis using FEA software to ensure integrity under loads.
• Develop structural concepts and layouts for composite and metallic structures.
• Material selection based on performance and cost.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Critical thinking

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Aerospace/Mechanical Eng (structures)

Tools

ANSYS

NASTRAN/Patran

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic aerospace design and manufacturing firm with operations in the Eastern Cape, is seeking a talented Aerospace Structures Engineer to join their expanding team. This hybrid role offers a flexible working arrangement, combining collaborative in-office design sessions with focused remote work. You will be responsible for the structural design, analysis, and testing of aircraft components and airframes, ensuring they meet rigorous performance, safety, and certification requirements. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in stress analysis, material science, and structural dynamics, with expertise in using advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software. You will play a key role in developing innovative and lightweight structural solutions that enhance aircraft efficiency and performance. This position demands creativity, analytical rigor, and a deep understanding of aerospace structural principles. We are looking for an individual who is passionate about pushing the boundaries of aerospace engineering and contributing to significant projects within the industry, potentially supporting aviation activities near Queenstown .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and validate aircraft primary and secondary structures.
• Perform stress analysis using FEA software (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN) to ensure structural integrity under various load conditions.
• Develop structural concepts and detailed design layouts for composite and metallic structures.
• Contribute to the selection of appropriate materials based on performance requirements and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are producible and cost-efficient.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design reports, analysis summaries, and substantiation data for certification.
• Conduct structural testing and interpret test results.
• Work closely with other engineering disciplines (e.g., aerodynamics, systems) to ensure integrated design solutions.
• Identify and implement design improvements to enhance structural performance and reduce weight.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace structural design standards and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in structures.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in aerospace structural design and analysis.
• Proficiency in FEA software (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN/PATRAN) and CAD tools.
• Strong understanding of aerospace materials (composites, alloys) and their mechanical properties.
• Experience with static and dynamic structural analysis, fatigue, and fracture mechanics.
• Knowledge of aerospace certification processes and standards.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills for hybrid work environments.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Experience in designing for manufacturing processes (e.g., composite lay-up, machining).

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance and retirement planning.
• Opportunities for professional growth through advanced training and involvement in cutting-edge projects.
• A stimulating work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration.
• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements.
• Potential for stock options and performance bonuses.