Head of Composite Structures & Design Engineering

AlleyCorp

San Jose (CA)

On-site

USD 207,000 - 259,000

Full time

14 days+
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Job summary

Archer, an aerospace company based in San Jose, California, seeks a senior leader for the Airframe Structures team. You will lead ~20 engineers, shape the capability roadmap for structures design, and champion safety, innovation, and technical excellence.

You will drive advanced composite concepts, evaluate new materials, and partner with suppliers while contributing to IP and patent activity. The role requires a strong background in composite structures, CAD/FEA, and aircraft certification

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
  • Master's degree preferred
  • 12+ years of experience in composite structures design and analysis
  • 3+ years of management or team leadership experience
  • Experience with aircraft certification processes (Part 23, Part 27, or Part 25)
  • Expert knowledge of composite materials, design principles, and manufacturing processes
  • Proficiency with CAD software (NX, CATIA, SolidWorks, or similar)
  • Advanced experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Nastran, Abaqus, or similar)
  • Knowledge of composite-specific analysis tools (Fibersim, HyperSizer, or similar)
  • Understanding of laminate theory, failure criteria, and damage tolerance
  • Experience with autoclave, RTM, prepreg, and other composite manufacturing processes
  • Proven track record of leading high-performing engineering teams
  • Strong written and verbal communication abilities
  • Experience working in fast-paced, dynamic environments
  • Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams

Responsibilities

  • Lead and mentor a team of ~20, focusing on recruitment, coaching, performance management, and career development
  • Architect the technical capability roadmap for the structures design group, identifying skill gaps and implementing educational initiatives
  • Champion a culture of innovation, safety, and technical excellence, ensuring alignment with program goals
  • Drive the development of advanced composite design concepts and innovative manufacturing processes
  • Evaluate and implement new materials, technologies and design methodologies
  • Collaborate with external suppliers and partners to deliver composite solutions
  • Contribute to intellectual property development and patent applications

Skills

Composite design
Leadership
CAD NX
ANSYS
Nastran
Abaqus
Fibersim
HyperSizer
Laminate theory
Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's in Aerospace Engineering
Master's degree preferred

Tools

NX
CATIA
SolidWorks
ANSYS
Nastran
Abaqus
Fibersim
HyperSizer

Job description

Archer, an aerospace company based in San Jose, California, seeks a senior leader for the Airframe Structures team. You will lead ~20 engineers, shape the capability roadmap for structures design, and champion safety, innovation, and technical excellence.

You will drive advanced composite concepts, evaluate new materials, and partner with suppliers while contributing to IP and patent activity. The role requires a strong background in composite structures, CAD/FEA, and aircraft certification

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