Senior Aerospace Structural Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Retirement fund

Professional development

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, is seeking a Senior Aerospace Structural Engineer to lead design, analysis and testing of aircraft components, ensuring structural integrity and regulatory compliance. The role requires 10+ years in aerospace structures, expertise in FEA (NASTRAN/ANSYS), materials knowledge, CAD skills, and strong communication to mentor junior engineers.

You will collaborate with aerodynamics, systems and manufacturing teams to deliver safe, efficient aircraft structures for

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in aerospace/mechanical with structures focus.
• ≥10 years in aerospace structural engineering with aircraft design experience.
• Proficient in FEA tools (NASTRAN/ANSYS) and composites knowledge.
• CAD proficiency for structural design and detailing.
• Solid understanding of aerospace regulations (EASA/FAA).
• Excellent communication and mentoring abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural design and analysis of aircraft components, airframes, and related systems.
• Perform advanced stress, fatigue, and vibration analysis using FEA.
• Develop and validate structural test plans and procedures; oversee testing.
• Collaborate with aerodynamic, systems, and manufacturing engineers to optimize designs.
• Select and specify materials considering strength, weight, durability, and cost.
• Create drawings, specs, and reports for structural elements.
• Ensure designs meet aerospace regulatory standards.
• Investigate structural issues and implement corrective actions.
• Mentor junior engineers and promote technical rigor.
• Stay updated on advancements in structural engineering, materials, and manufacturing.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Mentoring

Problem solving

Education

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

Tools

NASTRAN

ANSYS

CAD

FEA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering aerospace manufacturer, is seeking an accomplished Senior Aerospace Structural Engineer to join their esteemed engineering division. This challenging position is based at their cutting-edge facility in Centurion, Gauteng . The role involves leading the structural design, analysis, and testing of new aircraft components and systems, ensuring structural integrity, performance, and compliance with stringent aviation standards. You will be at the heart of developing next-generation aerospace structures, utilizing advanced materials and sophisticated analysis techniques. The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in structural mechanics, finite element analysis (FEA), and aerospace materials science, coupled with a strong understanding of the unique demands of aircraft design. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to significant projects and advance your career within a company renowned for its innovation and commitment to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the structural design and analysis of aircraft components, airframes, and associated systems.
• Perform advanced stress analysis, fatigue analysis, and vibration analysis using FEA software.
• Develop and validate structural test plans and procedures, overseeing testing execution.
• Collaborate with aerodynamic, systems, and manufacturing engineers to ensure integrated and optimized designs.
• Select and specify appropriate aerospace materials, considering strength, weight, durability, and cost.
• Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and technical reports for structural elements.
• Ensure all structural designs meet stringent aerospace requirements and regulatory standards (e.g., EASA, FAA).
• Investigate and resolve structural anomalies or failures, implementing corrective actions.
• Mentor and guide junior structural engineers, fostering a culture of technical rigor.
• Stay abreast of advancements in structural engineering, materials, and manufacturing technologies.

This role requires the engineer to be present at our Centurion, Gauteng facility.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline with a specialization in structures.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in aerospace structural engineering, with a proven track record in aircraft design.
• Expertise in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software such as NASTRAN, ANSYS, or similar.
• Thorough understanding of aerospace materials (composites, alloys) and their behavior under load.
• Proficiency in CAD software for structural design and detailing.
• Knowledge of aircraft structural testing methodologies and equipment.
• Strong grasp of aerospace regulations pertaining to structural design and certification.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical‑thinking capabilities.
• Superior communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts.
• Experience with composite material analysis and design is highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive medical insurance, a generous retirement fund, and substantial opportunities for professional development and advanced training.
• You will have the chance to work on exciting and challenging projects that are shaping the future of aviation.
• We provide a dynamic work environment, performance incentives, and a clear pathway for career progression.
• Employees also benefit from paid annual leave and access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities.