Soft Structures Design Engineer

LTA Research is seeking a motivated Soft Structures Design Engineer to help build a revolutionary lighter than air flight vehicle. You will work with a close-knit engineering and production team to plan, conceptualize, rapidly prototype, test, and implement innovative solutions for the design, fabrication, and assembly of large experimental flight vehicles. We believe in fast-cycle development and approach to flight systems development with the motto “build a little, test a little, learn a lot”. This unique position allows for hands-on leadership through all phases of development, from concept to flight of an experimental aerospace vehicle.

• Detailed design and layout of aircraft components, systems and ground support/assembly equipment, in particular soft goods flight hardware.
• Supporting creation of requirements and specifications for products, materials, components, and systems.
• Planning and project management of all assigned tasks to ensure they are completed on time and on budget.
• Creating and maintaining CAD models including part and assembly models using Solidworks, SolidWorks PDM, Rhino3D, and AutoCad.
• Creating CAD drawings including part, assembly, installation, and cutting pattern drawings.
• Selection of materials.
• Performing detailed analysis using appropriate tools and methods to optimize designs and verify design integrity.
• Providing support to manufacturing, including developing processes and designing/modifying fixtures for fabrication, assembly, or system integration.
• Preparing and presenting technical reports and documentation for review by senior team members, vendors, contractors, and other parties.
• Supporting the complete lifecycle of assigned projects, from conception and conceptual design through detailed design, construction, assembly, integration, testing, and in service.
• Liaising with management, suppliers, consultants, internal and external team members, customers and other interested parties on all technical areas of assigned projects.
• Conducting and attending project meetings.

• Proven experience (2 to 5+ years) of relevant work experience. Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suites.
• Extensive experience of 3D CAD modeling (2+ years):
• SolidWorks – essential.
• SolidWorks PDM – essential.
• Rhino3D experience – preferred.
• AutoCad experience – preferred.
• Soft goods experience - preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work within existing quality management processes and improve quality management of soft goods processes in a development environment.
• Positive attitude.
• Works well with others.

• Able to lift 35 lbs.

• Relocation assistance.
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents).
• Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances.
• Parental leave.
• Generous PTO + 11 paid holidays.
• 401(k) matching up to 6%.
• Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions.
• Monthly wellness stipend.
• Monthly cell phone stipend.
• Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field.
• Mental health benefit.
• Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride.
• An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields.

• Criminal background check clearance.
• Drug test clearance wherever applicable.

$115,000 - $142,000 a year

The base salary range for this role is $115,000 - 142,000, which is determined based on experience, geography, and qualifications. The base salary is one component of the total compensation package, which includes a very competitive annual bonus, 401K Match, and other generous benefits. While we believe competitive compensation is a critical aspect of your decision to join us, we do hope you also spend time considering why our mission and culture are right for you.