We are looking for a Structural Engineer to join an engineering team supporting the development of advanced aerospace and defense technologies in Plano, TX.
This is a 12-month contract-to-hire opportunity supporting advanced engineering projects within the aerospace and defense industry. In this role, you will work with aircraft structures, mission-critical systems, and innovative aerospace technologies, applying engineering principles to evaluate structural integrity, analyze performance, and support the design and development of reliable mechanical and structural components.
The ideal candidate has a solid foundation in mechanical or aerospace engineering, an understanding of structural analysis methods, and the ability to work effectively with engineers across multiple technical disciplines.
Key Responsibilities
- Evaluate the strength, durability, and structural integrity of metallic and composite components used in aerospace and defense applications.
- Conduct or assist with static and dynamic structural analyses to assess component performance under various loading conditions.
- Apply engineering analysis techniques and computer-based tools to identify potential structural concerns and recommend improvements.
- Work closely with design, mechanical, and systems engineering teams to support product development and engineering solutions.
- Assist with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and other structural evaluation methods to verify design performance.
- Review structural designs, material selections, and engineering specifications to ensure they meet project requirements.
- Prepare and contribute to engineering calculations, technical documentation, and structural analysis reports.
- Participate in engineering activities throughout the product lifecycle, including design development, evaluation, verification, and certification.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related engineering field.
- Minimum of 2 years of relevant engineering experience.
- Working knowledge of fundamental engineering concepts, structural mechanics, and analysis principles.
- Familiarity with Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) software and engineering analysis tools.
- Previous experience working with cross-functional engineering teams on design or development projects.
- Exposure to static and/or dynamic structural analysis techniques.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Hands-on experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and structural simulation.
- Familiarity with structural analysis software, including MSC Patran, Nastran, FEMAP, or ANSYS.
- Knowledge of fatigue analysis and damage tolerance assessment, including tools such as NASGRO or AFGROW.
- Experience performing traditional engineering hand calculations to validate structural designs.
- Understanding of metallic and composite materials and their structural applications.
- Familiarity with parametric modeling, model-based definition, and mechanical design practices.
- Knowledge of engineering material selection, structural hardware, and manufacturing processes.
- Ability to develop or contribute to structural substantiation reports and technical engineering documentation.
- Previous experience supporting projects within the aerospace, aviation, or defense industries.
- Work Arrangement: Fully onsite
- Pay Rate: $60.00 per hour
- Work Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week
- Experience: 2+ years of relevant engineering experience
- Education: Bachelor's degree in an applicable engineering discipline
- Security Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
This position provides an opportunity to apply your engineering knowledge to complex structural challenges in the aerospace and defense industry. You'll collaborate with experienced technical teams, strengthen your structural analysis capabilities, and contribute to engineering projects involving advanced aircraft and mission systems.