Senior Loads & Dynamics Engineer – Vibrations & Acoustics

About the role

Electra is seeking a Senior Loads & Dynamics 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of static, dynamic, vibration, and acoustic loads for airframe structures, propulsion systems, and installed equipment.
• Own loads and dynamics tasks from conceptual definition through detailed analysis and certification.
• Manage contractors developing loads, flutter, and acoustic data to support overall program objectives.
• Define vibration and acoustic environments (random, sine, shock, and acoustic spectra) for structural sizing, stress analysis, and equipment qualification.
• Perform and support coupled loads analyses (CLA), modal analyses, and frequency response assessments.
• Collaborate closely with airframe design, stress, propulsion, systems, and test teams to ensure accurate translation of loads into structural and system requirements.
• Support ground and flight test activities, including vibration and acoustic testing, data reduction, and test-to-analysis correlation.
• Contribute to the development of structural dynamic models (finite element-based) in support of loads, vibration, and acoustic analysis.
• Prepare and present at internal technical reviews.
• Interface with suppliers to define vibration and acoustic requirements for externally sourced components and systems.
• Continuously improve Electra's loads, dynamics, and vibroacoustic analysis methods, tools, and processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in aircraft loads, structural dynamics, vibrations, or acoustics engineering.
• Strong understanding of aircraft loads development, structural dynamics, vibration, and acoustic fundamentals.
• Demonstrated experience developing and applying static and dynamic load cases for structural sizing and certification.
• Proficiency with finite element-based analysis tools (e.g., NASTRAN, FEMAP, HyperMesh, Patran, or similar).
• Experience defining and interpreting random vibration, sine vibration, shock, and acoustic environments.
• Familiarity with FAA Part 23 or Part 25 structural and dynamic certification requirements.
• Ability to clearly communicate technical results through formal reports, presentations, and cross-functional discussions.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple analysis efforts in a fast-paced development environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting flight test or ground test for vibration and acoustic qualification.
• Background in hybrid-electric, eSTOL/eVTOL, or advanced aircraft development programs.
• Experience with test analysis correlation and model validation.
• Familiarity with MIL-STD or RTCA vibration and acoustic standards.
• Experience working directly with suppliers on dynamic environment definition and issue resolution.
• Private pilot license or a strong passion for aviation is a plus.

Pay

Compensation Range: $130,000 USD - $160,000 USD. 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.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and equity
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
• Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
• Paid winter break
• 401(k) with immediate vesting
• Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
• Free on-site parking