Aircraft Structures Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation allowance

Contract extension potential

Access to advanced tools

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Aircraft Structures Engineer in Rustenburg, North West, to lead design, analysis, and testing of aircraft structural components. You will apply FEA methods (ANSYS, Nastran, Abaqus) and collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to ensure airworthiness and structural integrity.

The role requires 4+ years in aircraft structural design with strong knowledge of composites, aluminum and titanium materials, as well as aerospace standards (FAR Part 25, EASA CS-25).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering with a focus on structures.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis and design of aircraft components using FEA software.
• Develop and validate structural test plans and procedures.
• Conduct stress, fatigue, and damage tolerance analyses for composites and metals.
• Collaborate with design engineers to integrate structural requirements.
• Prepare technical reports and specifications for structural components.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace standards (e.g., FAR Part 25, EASA CS-25).
• Review engineering drawings and manufacturing processes related to structures.
• Investigate structural failures and propose corrective actions.
• Support manufacturing teams with technical expertise during build phases.
• Stay current with advancements in aerospace structural design and materials.

Skills

FEA software

Structural design

Aerospace materials

CAD software

Multi-disciplinary teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering (Structures)

Tools

ANSYS

MSC Nastran

Abaqus

CATIA

SolidWorks

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent entity within the aerospace manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly competent Aircraft Structures Engineer to join their dedicated team in **Rustenburg, North West**. This role is pivotal in the design, analysis, and testing of aircraft structural components, ensuring they meet rigorous safety and performance standards. You will work on cutting‑edge projects, contributing to the development of next‑generation aircraft. The successful candidate will possess a strong foundation in structural mechanics, materials science, and finite element analysis (FEA). This position requires hands‑on involvement in a dynamic engineering environment, collaborating closely with manufacturing and design teams to bring complex structures to life. We are looking for an innovative thinker with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to engineering excellence. This role offers a challenging and stimulating work environment, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. You will be instrumental in ensuring the structural integrity and airworthiness of our aircraft, playing a key role in upholding our reputation for quality and reliability. Join us in pushing the boundaries of aerospace engineering and contributing to groundbreaking projects that shape the future of flight.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis and design of aircraft components using FEA software (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN).
• Develop and validate structural test plans and procedures.
• Conduct stress analysis, fatigue analysis, and damage tolerance assessments for composite and metallic structures.
• Collaborate with design engineers to integrate structural requirements into overall aircraft design.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and specifications for structural components.
• Ensure compliance with relevant aerospace standards and regulations (e.g., FAR Part 25, EASA CS-25).
• Review and approve engineering drawings and manufacturing processes related to structures.
• Investigate structural failures or anomalies and recommend corrective actions.
• Support manufacturing and production teams with technical expertise during build phases.
• Stay current with advancements in aerospace structural design and materials technology.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in structures.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in aircraft structural design and analysis.
• Proficiency in FEA software (e.g., ANSYS, MSC Nastran, Abaqus) and CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks).
• Strong understanding of aerospace materials (composites, aluminum alloys, titanium).
• Knowledge of stress, fatigue, and fracture mechanics principles.
• Familiarity with aerospace certification requirements and standards.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and team collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Experience with composite repair techniques is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive contract rate commensurate with experience.
• Potential for contract extension based on performance and project needs.
• Access to advanced engineering tools and software.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Exposure to exciting aerospace projects.
• Work in a professional and collaborative engineering environment in **Rustenburg, North West**.
• Accommodation allowance may be provided for eligible contractors.
• Contribution to skill development within the local aerospace sector.