Design Engineer

Summary

The Design Engineer is responsible for the design and engineering of aircraft and aircraft components from initial concept to final detail design. Implement and manage multiple projects to bring designs to production. Improve the design and marketability of existing aircraft models.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Design, 3D CAD modeling
• Structural analysis (hand calculations, FEA)
• Aircraft aerodynamic and performance analysis (hand calculations, CFD)
• Drafting (part/tooling/assembly drawings)
• Structural testing (load development, test setup, execution)
• Flight testing (planning, set-up, data acquisition/reduction/analysis, reporting)
• Hands-on prototyping (parts, assemblies, and systems)
• Frequent internal and external collaboration in all stages of design and production
• Provide detailed specifications for proposed solutions including time and scope involved
• Define clear goals for all aspects of a project and develop steps for their proper execution
• Develop and maintain aircraft assembly instructions, manuals, service documentation, and drawings
• Design production tooling concepts. Ability to consider part producibility during the design process
• Specify or develop manufacturing processes for production components
• Provide internal and external technical assistance as necessary work with customers to resolve issues that require assistance beyond the capabilities of the technical assistance department.
• Interface with customers and potential customers at Fly-ins, events. Give presentations.
• Mentors interns and new engineers.
• Other duties as required
  
  

Required Skills And Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in aeronautical, aerospace, or mechanical engineering
• Background with aircraft or structural/mechanical assembly
• Knowledge of applicable manufacturing processes.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
• Operates with significant independence, creativity, and discretion.
• Time management and organizational skills. Excellent proactive project management skills. Ability to work with various departments to facilitate the orderly execution of a proposed project plan
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously, with an eye for prioritization
• Thrives in a fast-paced work environment with high expectations and significantly diverse assignments in a collaborative/team setting
• Possesses analytical problem solving and critical thinking skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to quickly, clearly and concisely communicate.
• Understanding of the relationship between required function, value and cost.
• Mechanical aptitude including the ability to use common shop tools and measurement equipment.
• Knowledge of ASTM, FAR, CS and other foreign design standards.
• Proficiency with CAD software; ideally SolidWorks and AutoCAD
• Proficiency with MS Office
• Pilot’s license or interest in becoming a pilot
• Hands on experience with aircraft construction (ideally kit-built aircraft) and/or structural or mechanical assembly
  
  

Work Environment

Split between office work and working on the shop floor. Must be available for business travel as needed (Approx. 10%). Sitting 70% / Standing 20% / Walking & lifting 10%

Equal Employment Opportunity

Van’s Aircraft is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job related reasons regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.