PDS Tech Commercial, Inc. is currently seeking a Senior Test Engineer (Structures/Airframe) for our client in Santa Cruz, CA

Overview

Working as aStructuralTest Engineer, you will support theTestingTeam. As part of this team you will performstructuraltestingof flight critical structures for VTOL electric aircraft. Working in ourstructuraltest lab facility,thestructuraltest engineer will prepare test procedures, assemble test setups, execute tests and analyze and reporttest data. The data collected during these tests will inform the companys hardware design efforts and pave theway to safe, production-ready airframes.



Responsibilities

• Create test setups to validate thestructuralcharacteristics of primary and secondary aircraft structures (primarilycomposite) by working closely with the aircraft design teams to capture the nuances of aircraft design loads andoperating conditions.
  Develop formal test plans, test procedures, instrumentation plans, test stand/fixture designs, data acquisitionarchitectures, and any other necessary tools to allow for thorough and repeatabletestingof specimens as discussed.
  Analyze data collected during the aforementioned tests to generate reports that will provide quantifiable feedbackto the engineering teams that will allow them to optimize their designs.

Required
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or a relevant discipline
2+ years of work experience in relevant industry.
Experience with hardwaretestingin a laboratory environment.
Structuralengineering experience including non-metallic andcompositematerials,preferably aerospace structures.
Ability to perform hands on tests including setting up and executing tests with test hardwareand data acquisition.
Excellent problem solving and communication skills.
Strong analytical background.
Experience using sensors such asstrain gages, potentiometers, accelerometers, etc.(including sensor installation).
Fluent in data acquisition techniques, signal conditioning, and data processing techniquesassociated with above sensors.
Experience with mechanical design and manufacturing drawing creation, Computer AidedDesign (CAD).

Desired
M.S. in relevant discipline.
5+ years of work experience in relevant industry.
Experience with aircraft FAA certification processes.
Experience with industrial test laboratory environments and procedures.
Experience with Dassault Systemes CAD Catia, specifically using Generative ShapeDesign, Part Design and Assembly Design.
Experience working with advanced instrumentation, Digitial Image Correlation, Fiber Opticstrain, etc.
Hands on machine shop skills using lathe, mill, welder, and other machine shop equipment.
Aircraft homebuilding or rapid prototyping experience is a plus.

The target base pay for thisposition is $112,600 - $189,800. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills,and experience.

Our client also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan witha company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, lifeinsurance, and more


PDS Tech Commercial, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status.