Senior Aeronautical Engineer - Structures

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Professional development

Relocation assistance

State-of-the-art facilities

Job summary

Our client, a premier aircraft design and manufacturing firm, seeks a Senior Aeronautical Engineer (Structures) to lead design, analysis, and validation of structural components in Benoni, Gauteng. The role emphasizes FEA, stress analysis, and collaboration across aerodynamics, propulsion, and systems teams.

The ideal candidate holds an advanced degree with 8+ years in aircraft structures, strong FEA skills (NASTRAN, FEMAP, ANSYS), and experience with composites.

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Aeronautical/Mechanical Engineering with a Structures focus.
• At least 8 years of hands-on aircraft structural design and analysis experience.
• Proven expertise with FEA software (NASTRAN, FEMAP, ANSYS).
• Solid understanding of materials, mechanics, and aerospace dynamics.
• Experience with composite materials is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of certification processes and industry standards.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and optimize aircraft structural components and assemblies.
• Perform FEA on complex structures using industry-standard software.
• Conduct stress, fatigue life, and fracture mechanics evaluations.
• Develop and validate test plans for structures and systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure integrated designs.
• Prepare technical reports and design documentation for reviews.
• Ensure compliance with FAR Part 25, CS-25 and related standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and drive technical growth.
• Identify and implement design and manufacturing improvements.

Skills

Structural design

FEA analysis

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Documentation & reporting

Education

Master's degree (Aeronautical/Mechanical Engineering) – Structures

PhD in Structures (preferred)

Tools

NASTRAN

FEMAP

ANSYS

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious firm at the forefront of aircraft design and manufacturing, is seeking a Senior Aeronautical Engineer specializing in Structures to join their innovative team in Benoni, Gauteng . This pivotal role involves the design, analysis, and validation of aircraft structural components and systems to ensure optimal performance, safety, and airworthiness. You will play a key part in cutting-edge aerospace projects, contributing your expertise to the development of next-generation aircraft. This is an exceptional career opportunity for a seasoned structural engineer to make a substantial impact within a leading organization. The ideal candidate possesses a deep theoretical understanding coupled with practical application in a dynamic, project-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and optimize aircraft structural components and assemblies, ensuring compliance with aerodynamic, structural, and material requirements.
• Perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) on complex structures using industry-standard software (e.g., NASTRAN, ANSYS).
• Conduct stress analysis, fatigue life assessment, and fracture mechanics evaluations.
• Develop and validate test plans for structural components and systems, overseeing testing as required.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including aerodynamics, propulsion, and systems engineers, to ensure integrated design solutions.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, design documentation, and presentations for project reviews and regulatory submissions.
• Ensure adherence to aerospace standards and regulations (e.g., FAR Part 25, CS-25).
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, providing technical expertise and fostering professional growth.
• Identify and implement innovative design improvements and manufacturing process enhancements.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Structures.
• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in aircraft structural design and analysis.
• Proven expertise in FEA software (e.g., NASTRAN, FEMAP, ANSYS) and CAD tools.
• Strong understanding of material science, mechanics of materials, and aerospace structural dynamics.
• Experience with composite materials and their application in aerospace structures is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of aerospace certification processes and standards.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information effectively.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote analysis and on-site collaboration.
• Eligibility to work in South Africa without sponsorship.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary package ranging from R .
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance benefits.
• Generous annual leave and paid time off.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and conference attendance.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art facilities.
• Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
• A stimulating work environment with a focus on innovation and engineering excellence in Benoni, Gauteng .
• Opportunity to contribute to world-class aviation projects.