Aircraft Structural Engineer - Composite Materials Specialist

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Aircraft Structural Engineer in Klerksdorp, North West, focused on advanced composites. You will design, analyze, and ensure airframe integrity using cutting-edge materials and FEA tools.

You will collaborate with design, manufacturing and testing teams, perform stress and fatigue analyses, develop drawings, and ensure compliance with FAA/EASA standards. A strong background in composite structures and 5+ years of industry experience are expected; a master's is

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering with a specialization in structures.
• Master's degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in aircraft structural design and analysis, with a significant portion focused on composite materials.
• Proficiency in composite mechanics, material properties, and failure theories.
• Strong skills in using FEA software packages (e.g., NASTRAN, PATRAN, Abaqus) for structural analysis.
• Familiarity with aerospace composite manufacturing processes and quality control methods.
• Knowledge of aerospace structural testing methodologies and data interpretation.
• Understanding of aerospace certification requirements related to structures.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis and design of aircraft components and assemblies, with a strong focus on composite materials.
• Conduct stress analysis, fatigue analysis, and damage tolerance assessments using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software.
• Develop detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and manufacturing instructions for composite structures.
• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are optimized for composite fabrication processes (e.g., layup, curing, bonding).
• Participate in structural testing activities, including material characterization, component testing, and full-scale airframe testing.
• Analyze test results and modify designs as necessary to meet performance and safety requirements.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant aerospace standards, regulations (e.g., FAA, EASA), and customer specifications.
• Troubleshoot structural issues identified during design, manufacturing, or flight testing phases.
• Contribute to the selection and qualification of new composite materials and manufacturing techniques.
• Support the broader engineering team in system integration and multidisciplinary design efforts.

Skills

Composite materials

FEA analysis

Aircraft structures

Aero-structures

Education

Bachelor's in engineering with structures

Master's degree preferred

Tools

NASTRAN

PATRAN

Abaqus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the aerospace manufacturing sector, is seeking a talented Aircraft Structural Engineer with specialized expertise in composite materials. This role, based in Klerksdorp, North West , is central to the design, analysis, and integrity of advanced aircraft structures. You will be responsible for ensuring the safety, performance, and durability of airframes utilizing cutting-edge composite technologies. The position involves close collaboration with design, manufacturing, and testing teams to develop innovative structural solutions that meet rigorous aerospace requirements. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated engineer to contribute to the development of next-generation aircraft and shape the future of aerospace engineering. We are committed to innovation and excellence in structural design.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis and design of aircraft components and assemblies, with a strong focus on composite materials.


• Conduct stress analysis, fatigue analysis, and damage tolerance assessments using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software.


• Develop detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and manufacturing instructions for composite structures.


• Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are optimized for composite fabrication processes (e.g., layup, curing, bonding).


• Participate in structural testing activities, including material characterization, component testing, and full-scale airframe testing.


• Analyze test results and modify designs as necessary to meet performance and safety requirements.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant aerospace standards, regulations (e.g., FAA, EASA), and customer specifications.


• Troubleshoot structural issues identified during design, manufacturing, or flight testing phases.


• Contribute to the selection and qualification of new composite materials and manufacturing techniques.


• Support the broader engineering team in system integration and multidisciplinary design efforts.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering with a specialization in structures.


• Master's degree is preferred.


• A minimum of 5 years of experience in aircraft structural design and analysis, with a significant portion focused on composite materials.


• Proficiency in composite mechanics, material properties, and failure theories.


• Strong skills in using FEA software packages (e.g., NASTRAN, PATRAN, Abaqus) for structural analysis.


• Familiarity with aerospace composite manufacturing processes and quality control methods.


• Knowledge of aerospace structural testing methodologies and data interpretation.


• Understanding of aerospace certification requirements related to structures.


• Excellent problem-solving skills and a meticulous attention to detail.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.


• Candidates must be eligible to work in South Africa and may require security clearance.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and performance bonuses.


• We provide excellent opportunities for professional development, including advanced training in composite materials technology and structural analysis techniques.


• The hybrid work model in Klerksdorp, North West allows for a balanced approach to work and personal life, combining collaborative office-based work with focused remote productivity.


• Join our dedicated team and contribute to the forefront of aerospace innovation.


• We foster a supportive and dynamic work environment.