0108 - Principal Mechanical Engineer - Aircraft - Electra Aero

About Electra

From revolutionizing air travel with our hybrid-electric eSTOL aircraft to tackling critical climate science missions with our solar-powered stratospheric UAS, Electra builds airplanes that make sense. Our world-class team of engineers isn’t afraid to disrupt the status quo and we plan to change the world with modern ideas that challenge conventional thinking. Electra is a new aerospace company headquartered in Northern Virginia and we're on a quest to build a team of insanely talented people who want to do meaningful work. 

Job Description 

Electra is seeking a Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer to lead the IPT design, analysis, test, and integration of vehicle subsystems on our prototype 9-passenger hybrid electric eSTOL (electric short takeoff and landing) aircraft.  This is an incredible hands-on opportunity to make a direct impact on a cutting-edge development program. This position will be based in Manassas, Virginia. 

Responsibilities & Essential Functions

• Manage and lead the development of vehicle subsystems, from system architecture through integration.
• Providing subject matter expertise, technical review, design guidance, and mentoring.
• Developing subsystem and component requirements compatible with safety, performance, and business objectives.
• Selecting and managing suppliers/partners, providing guidance to help meet the required integrated product engineering team deliverables.
• Managing functional and physical interfaces between the vehicle subsystems and the vehicle.
• Performing/reviewing analysis, modeling, and simulation to verify subsystems and components meet performance and safety requirements.
• Interfacing with customers, suppliers, partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure program alignment.
• Communicating information about vehicle subsystem design, requirements, and performance between the design team, management, customer, subcontractors, and vendors.
• Understanding program objectives and requirements to conduct trade studies and define architectures, requirements, and interfaces between subsystems.
• Preparing and presenting at gated design reviews to demonstrate the adequacy of the design.

Required Education and Experience

• B.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or related STEM discipline) and
• 12 or more years of experience in relevant discipline areas (or an equivalent combination of education, skills, and experience).

Required Skills

• Experience with the aircraft development process and familiarity with aircraft subsystems.
• Advanced understanding of engineering fundamentals.
• A strong work ethic and ability to independently meet and lead the areas described by the responsibilities and essential functions.
• Excellent organization and communication skills.

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced degree preferred.
• Experience leading the development of aerospace systems, from conceptual design through production.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), certification procedures (especially Part 23), and relevant industry standards.
• Proficiency with CAD software (NX preferred) and mechanical systems-oriented analysis techniques (stress analysis, multi-body dynamics, thermal, etc).
• US Person (Citizen or Green Card) Preferred
• Licensed Pilot Preferred

Working Conditions:

• Work is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment which requires proper safety precautions.  May need to lift up to 50 lbs.

Location: Headquarters in Manassas, VA. To encourage close collaboration this position requires daily onsite hours.

Travel: <25%

Electra is committed to a work environment that is inclusive to all and free of discrimination. It is our policy to be an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other factors prohibited by law. Electra will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.

Additionally, as part of our commitment to health and safety, we require all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Electra offers a reasonable accommodation process for individuals who are unable to meet our vaccination requirement due to a disability, medical condition, or sincerely held religious belief.