Principal Structural Engineer, Autonomous Aircraft

Grex Defense, Inc.; Huntsville (AL); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Grex Defense, Inc. is seeking a Principal Structural Engineer to lead the structural development of clean-sheet autonomous aircraft from concept through build and test.

This hands-on leadership role requires deep experience in first-principles sizing, FEA, CAD, and production interfaces, with a track record on aerospace structures.

You will establish engineering standards, guide tool choices, and recruit and mentor a small, fast-moving team in a startup environment.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in sizing, FEA, and aerospace structures.
• Proven ability to establish load paths, thicknesses, and sizing before FEA.
• Experience with production drawings, GD&T, and manufacturing interfaces.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural development from concept to build and test of autonomous aircraft.
• Perform first-principles sizing, hand calculations, and FEA validation.
• Develop and oversee structural architecture, load paths, and material selection.
• Create production-ready drawings with GD&T and manufacturing notes.
• Collaborate with suppliers, manufacturing, and test teams; mentor the staff.

Skills

First-principles sizing

FEA

Structural design

Load paths

Joints design

Fabrication liaison

Team leadership

GD&T

Tools

Siemens FEMAP

Siemens NX

CAD

Job description

Grex Defense, Inc. is seeking a Principal Structural Engineer to lead the structural development of clean-sheet autonomous aircraft from concept through build and test.

This hands-on leadership role requires deep experience in first-principles sizing, FEA, CAD, and production interfaces, with a track record on aerospace structures.

You will establish engineering standards, guide tool choices, and recruit and mentor a small, fast-moving team in a startup environment.