Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Aerospace Structures

Placements24; Riverton (UT); Remote; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer for a fully remote aerospace role. You will design complex mechanical structures, perform FEA, and ensure compliance with AS9100 standards while collaborating with a global team.

The role requires 8+ years in aerospace structures, expertise in CATIA V5/V6, NX, ANSYS, Abaqus, and a strong materials background. Remote work, mentoring, and cutting-edge projects are part of the opportunity.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience designing and analyzing aerospace structures.
• Expert in 3D CAD and FEA tools (CATIA, NX, ANSYS, Abaqus).
• Deep knowledge of aerospace materials, failure modes, and manufacturing.
• Proven ability to lead design efforts and mentor junior engineers.
• Experience with remote or distributed engineering environments is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop complex mechanical structures and components for aerospace applications using advanced CAD software.
• Perform comprehensive structural analysis, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to assess performance under extreme conditions.
• Conduct vibration, thermal, and fatigue analysis to ensure structural integrity and longevity.
• Collaborate effectively with a global, remote team of engineers to achieve project objectives.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and material reports compliant with aerospace standards.
• Oversee prototyping and testing phases, validating designs against requirements.
• Troubleshoot complex design challenges and propose innovative solutions.
• Ensure adherence to aerospace standards (AS9100, MIL-STD) and regulatory requirements.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical development of the team.
• Stay abreast of aerospace materials, design methodologies, and simulation techniques.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in aerospace innovation, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join their fully remote, world-class engineering team. This position is integral to the design and analysis of critical aerospace structural components and systems. You will leverage your expertise to develop cutting‑edge solutions that meet the rigorous demands of the aerospace industry. The role requires a deep understanding of structural mechanics, materials science, and advanced CAD/CAE tools, coupled with exceptional remote collaboration skills. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering aerospace projects from anywhere, with the role supporting our strategic engineering initiatives related to **Upington, Northern Cape**.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop complex mechanical structures and components for aerospace applications using advanced CAD software.
• Perform comprehensive structural analysis, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to assess performance under extreme conditions.
• Conduct vibration, thermal, and fatigue analysis to ensure structural integrity and longevity.
• Collaborate effectively with a global, remote team of engineers (structural, systems, materials) to achieve project objectives.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and material selection reports compliant with aerospace standards.
• Oversee and guide the prototyping and testing phases, including validation of designs against stringent requirements.
• Troubleshoot complex design challenges and propose innovative, efficient solutions.
• Ensure strict adherence to aerospace industry standards (e.g., AS9100, MIL-STD) and regulatory requirements.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical development of the team.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in aerospace materials, design methodologies, and simulation techniques.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering with a specialization in structures.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in the design and analysis of aerospace structures.
• Expert proficiency in advanced 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5/V6, Siemens NX) and sophisticated FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS Mechanical, Abaqus).
• Deep understanding of aerospace materials (composites, alloys), failure modes, and manufacturing processes.
• Proven experience with aeroelasticity, buckling, and dynamic analysis.
• Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, essential for effective remote team operation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical design efforts and mentor junior engineers.
• Experience working in a remote or distributed engineering environment is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with aerospace certification processes.

Benefits

Our client offers an industry-leading compensation package, including a high base salary, substantial performance bonuses, and excellent benefits. We provide a fully remote work environment with flexible hours, supported by cutting‑edge digital collaboration tools. Opportunities for professional development include advanced training, industry certifications, and attendance at international aerospace conferences. You will be part of a visionary company shaping the future of aviation, working on technically challenging and rewarding projects with global impact, while supporting our engineering focus areas concerning **Upington, Northern Cape**.