Lead Aircraft Structures Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Performance bonuses

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional growth opportunities

Exposure to cutting-edge aerospace

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Aircraft Structures Engineer to lead design, analysis, and testing of aircraft structural components. You will ensure structural integrity, safety, and performance under diverse loads and conditions.

The role requires mastery in structural mechanics, materials science, and advanced analysis techniques, plus strong leadership and project management.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Aeronautical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering with a Structures specialization.
• 10+ years of progressive aircraft structures experience.
• Expertise in FEA software and materials used in aircraft structures.
• Proven leadership and complex project management experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural design and analysis of new aircraft components and modifications.
• Perform advanced FEA and stress analysis on aircraft structures.
• Develop and validate structural testing procedures and interpret results.
• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations and airworthiness standards (EASA, FAA, SACAA).
• Oversee materials selection and manufacturing processes for structural components.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, systems, and maintenance teams.
• Mentor and guide a team of structural engineers.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for structural tasks.
• Prepare technical documentation and presentations for stakeholders.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of structural engineering processes and tools.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Aeronautical/Mechanical/Civil Engineering (Structures)

Tools

ANSYS

Nastran

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in aircraft manufacturing and modification, is looking for a highly experienced Lead Aircraft Structures Engineer to join their advanced engineering team in Paarl, Western Cape . This pivotal role involves leading the design, analysis, and testing of aircraft structural components and systems. You will be responsible for ensuring the structural integrity, safety, and performance of aircraft under various operational loads and conditions. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in structural mechanics, materials science, and advanced engineering analysis techniques, along with strong leadership and project management skills. This is an exceptional opportunity to drive innovation in aircraft structures within a company at the forefront of aerospace technology, located in a beautiful region of South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the structural design and analysis of new aircraft components and modifications.


• Perform advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and stress analysis on aircraft structures.


• Develop and validate structural testing procedures and interpret test results.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulations and airworthiness standards (e.g., EASA, FAA, SACAA).


• Oversee the selection of materials and manufacturing processes for structural components.


• Collaborate with manufacturing, systems, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless integration.


• Mentor and guide a team of structural engineers, fostering technical excellence.


• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for structural engineering tasks.


• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.


• Contribute to the continuous improvement of structural engineering processes and tools.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Aeronautical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering with a specialization in Structures.


• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in aircraft structures engineering.


• Demonstrated expertise in FEA software (e.g., ANSYS, Nastran) and CAD tools.


• Deep understanding of composite materials, metallic structures, and failure analysis.


• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.


• Knowledge of aircraft certification processes and regulatory requirements.


• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.


• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities.


• Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing processes.


• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced engineering environment.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with significant performance bonuses.


• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans.


• Generous retirement savings plan and life insurance.


• Opportunities for professional growth, certifications, and advanced training.


• Exposure to cutting-edge aerospace projects and technologies.


• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.


• Work in a beautiful setting in Paarl, Western Cape , contributing to aviation advancement.