As the Structures Engineering Lead, you will direct the structural development of a reusable hypersonic flight vehicle launched from an aircraft. You will oversee the full lifecycle of structural systems—from initial concept and trade studies through design, analysis, testing, and flight validation. This position requires strong technical judgment, leadership in complex engineering environments, and the ability to guide critical decisions that shape vehicle performance and integrity.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead a cross-functional team of mechanical and manufacturing engineers, setting technical direction and ensuring alignment across disciplines
- Own structural architecture decisions, including configuration layout, material selection, and load path development
- Conduct and lead design reviews to advance the program from concept to manufacturing and flight test
- Define and manage structural requirements, mass properties, and configuration control of analytical and CAD models
- Establish engineering standards and best practices for structural design, analysis, and documentation
- Assess technical risks to determine testing scope and approve waivers when appropriate
- Maintain consistent communication with the Chief Engineer and program leadership to ensure technical and programmatic success
- Travel as required to support integration, testing, and program milestones
Required Qualifications
- Proven background in mechanical design, structural analysis, or mechanical systems within aerospace applications
- Extensive experience leading structural development on experimental or prototype flight vehicles from concept through flight
- Hands-on expertise in metallic structure design, analysis methods, and manufacturing processes
- Experience leading technical teams, managing subcontractor engineering efforts, and making high-stakes technical decisions
- Strong risk assessment and management skills in high-consequence environments
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
- Ability to operate independently, set priorities, and adapt to shifting program demands
- Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance
Preferred Qualifications
- Background in hypersonic or supersonic vehicle development
- Experience with air-launch system integration
- Knowledge of composite structure design, analysis, and fabrication
- Leadership experience managing small engineering teams
- Current Secret, TS, or SCI security clearance
Technical Environment
Engineering tools include Siemens NX, Teamcenter, FEMAP, and Nastran for modeling and analysis. Configuration and requirements management is supported through systems such as JIRA, GIT, and JAMA. Standard office productivity tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) are used for documentation and communication.
Work Model
This role is based in Mojave, CA, with a hybrid work structure requiring approximately 75–80% on-site presence (typically four days per week). Highly qualified candidates may be considered for flexible arrangements within this framework.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary range: $157,000–$206,000 for Staff level; $181,000–$237,300 for Principal level. The company offers a 9/80 work schedule, comprehensive healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription), paid parental leave, a 50% company match on 401(k) contributions up to $11,500 annually, and tuition reimbursement.
