AEROSPACE ENGINEER III with Security Clearance

Platform Aerospace; Hollywood (MD); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Platform Aerospace seeks an experienced Aerospace Engineer III to lead UAV design from concept through flight testing and production. The role requires strong expertise in simulations, testing, and integration across mechanical, electrical, software, and systems teams.

You will develop test plans, analyze performance, mentor junior staff, and ensure adherence to industry standards while driving innovation and reliable solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering and 7+ years of aerospace engineering experience.
• Proficiency with CAD, FEA, CFD software.
• Experience in flight test planning and risk assessment.
• Knowledge of autopilot systems and aircraft tuning.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of aerospace systems and subsystems.
• Develop flight test plans, procedures, and documentation.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams for system integration.
• Mentor junior engineers and maintain technical documentation.
• Ensure compliance with FAA standards and aerospace regulations.
• Present technical briefings to management and customers.

Skills

CAD

FEA

CFD

Autopilot systems

Flight testing

Aerospace materials

Structures

Aerodynamics

Propulsion

Risk assessment

Analytical skills

Communication

Teamwork

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering

Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering (preferred)

Tools

CAD software

FEA software

CFD software

Flight test instrumentation

Job description

JOB TITLE: Aerospace Engineer III

DEPARTMENT: Aerospace Engineering

REPORTS TO: Senior Aerospace Engineer

CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

Primary Function

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Aerospace Engineer III to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for UAV design from concept and prototype through flight testing and production, including payload integrations and aircraft modifications. This role requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, project execution, flight testing, and a commitment to innovation and technical excellence.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of aerospace systems, including aircraft, subsystems, and related components.
• Develop flight test plans, test procedures, flight cards, and testing documentation.
• Conduct detailed engineering analyses and simulations to ensure system performance, reliability, and safety.
• Plan, oversee, and support flight testing and validation activities.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineers, to ensure successful system integration.
• Support and mentor junior engineers by providing technical guidance and professional development.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, analysis reports, and user manuals.
• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and aerospace engineering best practices.
• Ensure compliance with applicable industry standards and regulatory requirements, including FAA and related aerospace standards.
• Prepare and present technical briefings, reports, and recommendations to management, customers, and stakeholders.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance engineering processes, products, and tools.
• Perform other duties as necessary and/or required.

Basic Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering and 7+ years of aerospace engineering experience focused on aircraft design and development.
• Proficiency with engineering software and tools, including CAD, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
• Strong understanding of autopilot systems and aircraft flight tuning methodologies.
• Strong knowledge of aerospace materials, structures, aerodynamics, and propulsion systems.
• Experience in flight test planning, execution, and risk assessment.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of aerospace industry standards and regulations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
• Experience with project leadership and engineering program execution.
• Experience supporting UAV/UAS design, integration, and flight test programs.
• Familiarity with AS9100 quality standards and aerospace development processes.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to travel as required to support testing, integration, and customer activities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, when required.
• Ability to traverse manufacturing, hangar, flight test, and operational environments.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds as needed.