Sr. Structural Design Engineer

As a Senior Structural Design Engineer at Virgin Galactic, you will be contributing directly to the development of our next generation of Spaceships and Motherships in redefining spaceflight.

Working primarily in composite structures, you will design and develop components and systems for aircraft and spacecraft, creating detailed parts, assemblies, and drawings. This position will span from detailed design to final assembly & checkout. In depth knowledge of aircraft structural design methodologies, tooling, fabrication and repair are required.

Responsibilities

• Design and enhance components for better product performance and manufacturing.
• Create 3D models of designs and complex assemblies.
• Ensure completed designs meet standards for clarity, accuracy, and materials.
• Identify and recommend fixes for design issues.
• Review designs for fit, functionality, and manufacturability.
• Adjust designs based on cost and weight targets.
• Collaborate with engineers throughout design, production, and testing phases.
• Review manufacturing and assembly processes for quality assurance.
• Support teams in ensuring vehicles are ready for flight, including hands-on involvement.
• Contribute to improving design practices and technologies.
• Write manuals and templates on design standards and processes.
• Identify and solve process issues.
• Develop innovative technical solutions to complex challenges.
• Mentor junior engineers and support their training.
• Respond to design inquiries from internal and external clients.
• Prepare clear reports summarizing analysis and information.
• Communicate effectively with team members and leadership.
  
  

Required Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical, Astronautical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering.
• 8 or more years’ of experience in aerospace design.
• Deep understanding of composite aircraft structural design.
• Experience designing primary and secondary structures and integrating vehicle systems.
• Proficient in CAD software (preferably 3DEXPERIENCE or CATIA V5/V6) for designing aerospace structures.
• Knowledge of GD&T standards and tolerance analysis.
• Experience with MRB tasks for non-conformant components.
• Familiarity with flight vehicle design regulations and standards.
• Knowledge of PLM and requirements management tools.
• Proficient in MS Office with strong technical writing and presentation skills.
• Experience creating design standards and guiding small teams.
• Ability to work autonomously, manage time effectively, and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
  
  

The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $108,871.00–$166,036.00. The base pay actually offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, location, and experience and take into account internal equity. Other forms of pay (e.g., bonus or long term incentive) may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. For more information regarding Virgin Galactic benefits, please visit https://vgcareers.virgingalactic.com/global/en/benefits

Who We Are

Virgin Galactic is an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering human spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced air and space vehicles. We are making the dream of space travel a reality, delivering spaceflight at an unprecedented frequency, with the development of next generation space vehicles.

Export Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Person (either a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident or a protected individual as defined 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or be able to obtain the required authorization from either the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The applicant must also not be included in the list of Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. See list here.

EEO Statement

Virgin Galactic is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Virgin Galactic is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

DRUG FREE WORKPLACE

Virgin Galactic is committed to a Drug Free Workplace. All applicants post offer and active teammates are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies. This can include pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and accident related drug and alcohol testing.