Chief Structural Engineer DER

Chief Structural Engineer DER

Join to apply for the Chief Structural Engineer DER role at Actalent
.

We have an immediate opening for a Chief Structural Engineer DER to provide sustainment support, liaison, design, and integration for both existing core product lines and new products. The Engineer will support design, integration, and sustainment of aerospace systems, working closely with customers to deliver engineering solutions. This role represents engineering through proactive collaboration with other departments, vendors, and customers.

• Develop weight‑optimized, airworthy components and structural assemblies that meet design criteria and producibility requirements.
• Perform structural analysis of primary and secondary structures and systems. Independently develop technical solutions to complex problems that are thorough, practical, and aligned with organizational objectives.
• Create detailed 3D designs, generate CAD drawings and related documents, and support manufacturing and assembly processes.
• Review and approve drawings, structural substantiation reports, and other engineering materials.
• Plan and organize work efficiently, manage multiple priorities, and assume ownership of tasks to ensure timely completion.
• Demonstrate strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Provide technical oversight and mentorship to staff.
• Document and troubleshoot component anomalies.
• Participate and present in internal and external design reviews.

• Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering or equivalent credentials.
• 10–20 years of direct engineering design experience in the aerospace or spacecraft industry, including project ownership.
• 5–10 years of experience with classical hand stress analysis methods.
• Proficiency in technical report writing, fluent in English (spoken and written), and skilled in MS Word, MS Excel, and MS Teams.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Experience with design work from conceptual stages through full 3D modeling, FEA validation, and manufacturing.
• In‑depth knowledge of aircraft structural analysis methods, including hand calculations for mechanical joints using resources such as MMPDS, Bruhn, and Roark.
• Experience with structural and fatigue analysis of mechanical and electronic components, including static, vibration, acoustic, modal, and shock testing of aerospace flight hardware.
• Knowledge of FAA and/or military regulatory requirements related to aircraft design and compliance (certification, qualification).
• Demonstrated proficiency in advanced stress analysis using NASTRAN and finite element modeling.

• 5+ years of experience with CAD software (preferably Solid Works) and drafting standards (ASME Y14.100).
• 10+ years of experience with detailed FEA methods and/or NASTRAN (FEMAP) finite element modeling.
• Experience with composites (fiberglass/carbon fiber), honeycomb, and solid laminate construction.
• Knowledge of fracture mechanics.
• 5+ years of experience with FAA regulations and their impact on conformity and compliance.
• Experience testing aerospace components and assemblies to validate conformance.
• Design experience with sensors (optical/RF/Radar), avionics, and complex kinematic systems.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, finishing, and rapid prototyping.
• Experience using test instrumentation and control components (e.g., pressure transducers, thermocouples, relays, solenoid valves) and collaborating with engineering personnel to interpret test results.
• Ability to incorporate mechanical and system‑level requirements (thermal, materials, etc.) into stress analyses.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Brooksville, FL.

The pay range for this position is $ - $ per year.

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre‑tax and Roth post‑tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long‑term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)