Senior LoadsDynamics Engineer - VibrationsAcoustics
About Electra
At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.
A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matter at this stage - and this role is no exception.
The Role
Electra is seeking a Senior LoadsDynamics Engineer specializing in vibrations and acoustics to lead the development, analysis, and validation of structural loads and dynamic environments for our nine-passenger EL9 hybrid-electric aircraft. You will own critical loads, vibration, and acoustic analyses across all phases of aircraft development, from concept through certification.
What You'll Do
- Lead the development of static, dynamic, vibration, and acoustic loads for airframe structures, propulsion systems, and installed equipment.
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Own loads and dynamics tasks from conceptual definition through detailed analysis and certification.
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Manage contractors developing loads, flutter, and acoustic data to support overall program objectives.
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Define vibration and acoustic environments (random, sine, shock, and acoustic spectra) for structural sizing, stress analysis, and equipment qualification.
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Perform and support coupled loads analyses (CLA), modal analyses, and frequency response assessments.
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Collaborate closely with airframe design, stress, propulsion, systems, and test teams to ensure accurate translation of loads into structural and system requirements.
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Support ground and flight test activities, including vibration and acoustic testing, data reduction, and test-to-analysis correlation.
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Contribute to the development of structural dynamic models (finite element-based) in support of loads, vibration, and acoustic analysis.
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Prepare and present at internal technical reviews.
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Interface with suppliers to define vibration and acoustic requirements for externally sourced components and systems.
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Continuously improve Electra's loads, dynamics, and vibroacoustic analysis methods, tools, and processes.
What You Bring
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
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8+ years of experience in aircraft loads, structural dynamics, vibrations, or acoustics engineering.
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Strong understanding of aircraft loads development, structural dynamics, vibration, and acoustic fundamentals.
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Demonstrated experience developing and applying static and dynamic load cases for structural sizing and certification.
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Proficiency with finite element-based analysis tools (e.g., NASTRAN, FEMAP, HyperMesh, Patran, or similar).
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Experience defining and interpreting random vibration, sine vibration, shock, and acoustic environments.
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Familiarity with FAA Part 23 or Part 25 structural and dynamic certification requirements.
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Ability to clearly communicate technical results through formal reports, presentations, and cross-functional discussions.
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Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple analysis efforts in a fast-paced development environment.
Bonus Points
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Experience supporting flight test or ground test for vibration and acoustic qualification.
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Background in hybrid-electric, eSTOL/eVTOL, or advanced aircraft development programs.
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Experience with test analysis correlation and model validation.
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Familiarity with MIL-STD or RTCA vibration and acoustic standards.
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Experience working directly with suppliers on dynamic environment definition and issue resolution.
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Private pilot license or a strong passion for aviation is a plus.
Compensation:
$130,000.00 – $160,000.00 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and equity
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Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
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Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
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Paid winter break
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401(k) with immediate vesting
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Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
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Free on-site parking
