Lead the development of advanced air-launched hypersonic vehicles by overseeing structural design, analysis, and testing for reusable flight platforms. You will direct a multidisciplinary team of engineers, making critical technical decisions that shape the structural integrity and performance of next-generation aerospace systems.
What You'll Do
- Direct the structural design and analysis of airframe systems, including conducting trade studies and defining structural layouts
- Own final technical decisions for the structures subsystem and ensure alignment with program objectives
- Lead design reviews to advance the vehicle from development through manufacturing and into flight testing
- Establish engineering standards, manage structural requirements, and oversee model configuration and mass properties
- Evaluate structural test readiness and approve documentation based on technical risk assessments
- Collaborate closely with program leads and the Chief Engineer, providing regular updates on structural progress and challenges
- Support program needs through occasional travel and maintain a strong commitment to integrity and accountability
Requirements
- Proven background in mechanical design, structural analysis, or related aerospace disciplines
- Extensive experience leading structural development on prototype or experimental flight vehicles from concept to flight
- Hands-on expertise in metallic structure design, analysis, and manufacturing processes
- Leadership experience within small, agile engineering teams where broad responsibilities are common
- Strong technical decision-making and risk management skills
- Excellent communication abilities, both written and verbal
- Ability to obtain and retain a security clearance
- Self-motivated with the flexibility to adapt to shifting priorities and evolving technical demands
Preferred Qualifications
- Direct experience in hypersonic or supersonic vehicle programs
- Background in air-launched flight systems
- Knowledge of composite structure design, analysis, and fabrication
- Experience managing engineering personnel and leading small teams
- Active Secret, TS, or SCI security clearance
Technical Environment
- Siemens NX, Teamcenter, FEMAP, Nastran for design and analysis
- JAMA for requirements management
- JIRA and GIT for collaboration and version control
- MS Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
Benefits
- 9/80 work schedule — every other Friday off
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage
- Paid maternity and parental leave
- Company matches 50% of 401(k) contributions up to $11,500 annually
- Tuition reimbursement for continuing education
Work Mode
This role operates on a hybrid schedule requiring 75–80% on-site presence, typically four days per week, at the Mojave, CA facility. Highly qualified candidates may have limited flexibility in on-site requirements.
Company Culture
Committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the organization fosters a respectful, collaborative environment. All employees are expected to uphold principles of integrity, responsibility, and accountability. The company strictly prohibits discrimination and harassment in all aspects of employment.
