Structural Design Engineer

About the Company

We are seeking a highly motivated Structural Design Engineer to lead the mechanical and structural design of Ground Control Stations (GCS) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The candidate will be responsible for designing lightweight, robust, and field-deployable structures optimized for performance, manufacturability, and durability.

This role involves close collaboration with avionics, electronics, propulsion, and manufacturing teams to deliver mission-ready drone platforms and ground systems.

Key Responsibilities

Ground Control Station (GCS) Design

• Design ruggedized enclosures for RF systems, Displays, Power systems, Communication modules
• Develop portable/foldable mechanical systems.
• Ensure environmental protection (IP ratings, thermal management).
• Design for field usability and ergonomic handling.
• Work on vibration isolation and shock absorption mechanisms.

Drone Structural Design

• Design airframes for multi-rotor and fixed-wing UAVs.
• Perform structural analysis for Vibration, Shock, Impact loads, Aerodynamic loads
• Optimize structures for weight reduction and strength.
• Select materials (carbon fiber, composites, aluminum alloys, engineering plastics).
• Design mounting systems for Payloads, Flight controllers, Batteries, Antennas
• Conduct FEA simulations and validate designs through testing.
• Support prototyping, testing, and iteration cycles.

Supply Chain Management

• Coordinate with procurement for sourcing structural materials and components.
• Support vendor selection and technical validation.
• Optimize BOM for cost, quality, and availability.
• Work with suppliers to reduce lead times and resolve supply constraints.
• Ensure quality compliance and smooth transition from prototype to production.

Engineering & Documentation

• Create 3D CAD models and detailed drawings.
• Generate GD&T-compliant manufacturing drawings.
• Conduct tolerance stack-up analysis.
• Collaborate with vendors and fabrication partners.
• Maintain BOM and technical documentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelors or Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Structural Engineering
• 13 years of relevant experience (flexible based on level).

Required Skills

• Strong proficiency in SolidWorks / Fusion 360 / CATIA / Creo
• FEA tools (ANSYS / Abaqus / SolidWorks Simulation)
• Experience with composite materials and lightweight design.
• Understanding of vibration and fatigue analysis.
• Knowledge of UAV structural requirements.

Preferred Skills

• Experience designing UAV airframes.
• Experience with carbon fiber layup and composite manufacturing.
• Knowledge of MIL-STD vibration/shock standards.
• Experience designing IP-rated enclosures.
• Familiarity with UAV regulations and airworthiness requirements.
• Experience working in fast prototyping environments.