The Director of Mechanical Engineering – Structures & Systems is responsible for leading the strategic direction, technical execution, and organizational development of the mechanical engineering function focused on airframe structures, mechanical systems, and subsystem integration. This senior leadership role oversees the development of robust, lightweight, and manufacturable designs that meet stringent aerospace requirements for performance, reliability, cost, and schedule. The Director works closely with program leadership, product engineering, manufacturing, and executive stakeholders to deliver integrated structural solutions across multiple platforms and lifecycle stages—from R&D through certification and production.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide strategic and technical leadership for mechanical engineering teams focused on structural design, static and dynamic analysis, materials selection, and mechanical systems integration
Define and drive engineering architecture for structures and mechanical systems across aircraft platforms, ensuring design compliance with aerospace standards and performance targets
Oversee talent development, staffing, and organizational capability building across mechanical disciplines (airframe, actuators, enclosures, mounts, etc.)
Govern structural development processes including conceptual design, modeling, finite element analysis (FEA), test validation, and certification
Lead collaboration with cross-functional partners in avionics, propulsion, thermal, software, and systems engineering to ensure cohesive mechanical integration
Manage technical readiness and maturity through design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR), configuration control boards, and quality gates
Champion innovation in lightweight structures, additive manufacturing, thermal-structural coupling, and design for manufacturability
Develop and manage departmental budgets, resource plans, and performance metrics aligned with company goals and program timelines
Serve as primary technical interface to internal leadership, external customers, and regulatory authorities on all structural/mechanical matters
Drive continuous improvement initiatives in mechanical engineering tools, processes, and methodologies
Key Focus Areas:
Leadership of mechanical and structural engineering teams across the full product lifecycle
Technical ownership of structural systems and mechanical integrity in aerospace platforms
Integration of structural design with systems engineering, certification, and production
Compliance with FAA, DoD, or other applicable regulatory and industry standards
Risk-based design, analysis, and test validation of mechanical and structural components
Strategic alignment of engineering roadmaps with business and product strategies
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline required
Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Business Administration (MBA) preferred
Certifications:
PE license or equivalent highly desirable
Program or technical management certifications (e.g., PMP, INCOSE CSEP) a plus
Experience:
15–20+ years of progressive experience in aerospace mechanical engineering, with at least 5+ years in a senior engineering management or director-level role
Proven track record in leading structural and mechanical system development for commercial, defense, or space aerospace platforms
Deep expertise in airframe design, structural analysis (static, dynamic, fatigue), materials (metallic and composite), and aerospace mechanical assemblies
Demonstrated experience with FAA/EASA certification programs, AS9100 compliance, and product qualification testing
Experience working with multidisciplinary teams including systems, avionics, propulsion, and manufacturing engineering
Technical Skills:
Advanced proficiency in CAD and CAE tools (CATIA, NX, ANSYS, NASTRAN, Abaqus)
Familiarity with PLM systems and digital thread implementation (e.g., Teamcenter, Windchill)
Understanding of model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and digital engineering principles
Soft Skills:
Visionary and collaborative leader with a strong technical foundation and business acumen
Excellent communication, negotiation, and executive-level presentation capabilities
Ability to mentor and develop high-performing engineering teams
Decisive, resilient, and adept at managing complex programs in dynamic environments