Senior Structures Design Engineer

Swarm Aero

$155K — $225K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering (advanced degree preferred)
  • 5+ years of aerospace composite structure design experience
  • Deep knowledge of composite material properties and analysis
  • Proficient in CAD software, especially Siemens NX and Fibersim
  • Experience leading composite structure design throughout product lifecycle
  • Hands-on experience in composite part fabrication
  • Familiar with aviation standards and DoD certification requirements

Responsibilities

  • Lead design and development of composite structures and integration
  • Conduct feasibility studies for aircraft performance and cost
  • Generate CAD models and part definitions to design standards
  • Perform joint sizing calculations and initial structural analyses
  • Own design process from concept to release, including reviews and analysis
  • Establish and maintain best practices for design efficiency
  • Support prototype and production design focusing on manufacturability
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams for design compliance

Benefits

  • Meaningful equity stake in a high-growth defense technology firm
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Generous PTO and paid sick leave
  • Monthly wellness stipend
  • Daily catered lunch provided at the office
  • Paid parental leave for new parents
  • Opportunity to make a direct impact on national security technology
  • Collaborate with a world-class team of engineers and operators
Full Job Description
Our company is looking for a highly motivated and experienced structures designer to join our team. As a Structures Design Engineer, you will be responsible for designing and testing flight vehicles.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead the end-to-end design and development of conceptual and preliminary composite structure including interface and system integration.
  • Conduct advanced feasibility studies to ensure aircraft designs meet performance, weight, and cost targets.
  • Generate CAD models, including structural layout and detailed model-based part definitions, adhering to internal design standards and GD&T.
  • Perform initial structure and joint sizing calculation.
  • Own the design process from start to release, including conducting design reviews, structural analysis, DFM, and liaising with manufacturing and suppliers.
  • Establish and maintain best practices and design standards, streamlining the design process through master files, critical interface models, etc.
  • Support fast-paced prototype and production aircraft design with a focus on manufacturability.
  • Provide technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to junior engineers.
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure design feasibility, manufacturability, and compliance with certification requirements.


Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
  • 5+ years of experience in composite structure design for aircraft, spacecraft, or similar vehicles.
  • Deep understanding of composite and metal material properties, composite laminate design, composite structure analysis, bonding and joining techniques.
  • Strong expertise in CAD software, particularly Siemens NX and Fibersim, or equivalent software.
  • Led the design and analysis of composite structures throughout the product lifecycle, from conceptualization to production.
  • Hands-on experience with composite part fabrication and bonding.
  • Familiarity with aviation industry standards and DoD certification requirements.
  • Ability and willingness to travel to our Oxnard headquarters for onsite collaboration and meetings.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Extensive experience in new product development, especially within small, agile teams.
  • Experience in composite aircraft manufacturing techniques, including bonded structures.
  • Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills. Strong design skills using Siemens NX/Fibersim and experience with PLM systems like Teamcenter.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of aviation industry practices and DoD certification standards.
  • Outstanding communication, time management, collaboration, and leadership abilities, with a proven track record of successfully working in cross-functional teams.

Salary Range: $155,000 - $225,000 + Equity

What we Offer:
  • Meaningful equity stake in a high-growth defense technology company
  • Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
  • PTO and paid sick time
  • Monthly Wellness Stipend
  • Daily catered lunch to office
  • Paid parental leave
  • Direct impact opportunity - be a key leader in building a critical technology for national security
  • World-class team - work alongside exceptional engineers and operators solving hard problems

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