Senior Loads & Dynamics Engineer - Vibrations & AcousticsPosition OverviewElectra is seeking a
Senior Loads & Dynamics Engineer specializing in vibrations and acoustics to lead the development, analysis, and validation of structural loads and dynamic environments for our nine-passenger EL9 hybrid-electric aircraft.
In this role, you will own critical loads, vibration, and acoustic analyses across all phases of aircraft development, from concept through certification. You will work closely with airframe, stress, flight physics, test, and propulsion teams to ensure accurate definition of static and dynamic environments, supporting safe, and certifiable airframe and systems designs. This position is ideal for an experienced engineer ready to influence architecture-level decisions on a novel aircraft platform.
Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions- Lead the development of static, dynamic, vibration, and acoustic loads for airframe structures, propulsion systems, and installed equipment.
- Own loads and dynamics tasks from conceptual definition through detailed analysis and certification, ensuring alignment with performance, safety, and airworthiness requirements.
- Manage contractors developing loads, flutter, and acoustic data to support overall program objectives.
- Define vibration and acoustic environments (random, sine, shock, and acoustic spectra) for structural sizing, stress analysis, and equipment qualification.
- Perform and support coupled loads analyses (CLA), modal analyses, and frequency response assessments.
- Collaborate closely with airframe design, stress, propulsion, systems, and test teams to ensure accurate translation of loads into structural and system requirements.
- Support ground and flight test activities, including vibration and acoustic testing, data reduction, and test-to-analysis correlation.
- Contribute to the development of structural dynamic models (finite element-based) in support of loads, vibration, and acoustic analysis.
- Prepare and present at internal technical reviews .
- Interface with suppliers to define vibration and acoustic requirements for externally sourced components and systems.
- Continuously improve Electra's loads, dynamics, and vibroacoustic analysis methods, tools, and processes.
Required Education and Experience- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
- 8+ years of experience in aircraft loads, structural dynamics, vibrations, or acoustics engineering (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
Required Skills and Qualifications- Strong understanding of aircraft loads development, structural dynamics, vibration, and acoustic fundamentals.
- Demonstrated experience developing and applying static and dynamic load cases for structural sizing and certification.
- Proficiency with finite element-based analysis tools (e.g., NASTRAN, FEMAP, HyperMesh, Patran, or similar).
- Experience defining and interpreting random vibration, sine vibration, shock, and acoustic environments.
- Familiarity with FAA Part 23 or Part 25 structural and dynamic certification requirements.
- Ability to clearly communicate technical results through formal reports, presentations, and cross-functional discussions.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple analysis efforts in a fast-paced development environment.
Desired Skills and Qualifications- Experience supporting flight test or ground test for vibration and acoustic qualification.
- Background in hybrid-electric, eSTOL/eVTOL, or advanced aircraft development programs.
- Experience with test analysis correlation and model validation.
- Familiarity with MIL-STD or RTCA vibration and acoustic standards.
- Experience working directly with suppliers on dynamic environment definition and issue resolution.
- Private pilot license or a strong passion for aviation is a plus.
Location & Additional Information- Location: Manassas, VA headquarters (on-site presence strongly preferred).
- Travel: Occasional (
Compensation and BenefitsIn addition to offering an exciting work environment and the opportunity to be part of the team making Ultra Short flight a reality, at Electra, we offer an unparalleled total rewards package. Electra offers employees a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance, generous PTO and sick leave, company holidays, paid winter break, and a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting. Life at Electra includes a variety of perks, such as free catered lunches, amazing coffee, snacks, drinks, fruit, free parking, and opportunities for much more.
Working ConditionsWork is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical effort in handling light materials, boxes, power tools, prototypes, and different materials or equipment. Due to the nature of our business and projects, some fieldwork may be required, working in both indoor and outdoor conditions. You may need to lift up to 50 lbs.
