Structures Engineer

About the role

Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC), the preeminent manufacturer of civil helicopters, is seeking a Structures Engineer to join our engineering team in Torrance, CA. This position reports to the Structures Engineer Manager and is responsible for verifying the structural integrity of helicopters through analysis and testing in support of design, development, and certification.

Responsibilities

• Ensure structural integrity by conducting static stress, stiffness, stability, and fatigue analysis of aircraft primary and secondary structures using hand calculations, testing, and modeling.
• Identify, plan, and conduct structural tests for components, assemblies, and aircraft in laboratory, ground, and flight test environments, including test planning, conformity, instrumentation, test conduct, data analysis, and issue resolution.
• Interface with other engineers to determine loads and operating environments for design elements and resolve issues found during development and certification.
• Resolve complex structures and loads through modeling and analysis.
• Validate that designs meet customer expectations, design objectives, and the requirements of 14 CFR Part 27.
• Utilize test data to suggest improvements for future designs.
• Develop processes and tools to improve the effectiveness, quality, and efficiency of the work.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Civil Engineering or a related engineering field.
• Experience with hand and computer methods of conducting stress analysis.
• Strong understanding of aircraft design principles, structures, and loads.
• Experience designing, conducting, and reporting on structural tests.
• Proven self-starter requiring minimal supervision, with strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent academic record.
• Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Team-oriented, with a positive attitude and ability to work well with others.

Qualifications

• Understanding of aircraft certification requirements.
• Hands-on experience with FEM / FEA.
• Experience with static and fatigue analysis of helicopter structures.
• FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) or ODA Unit Member (UM) (preferred).

Benefits

• Opportunities for training, development, and learning, supported by a structured performance management system and tuition reimbursement program.
• Salary increases twice a year.
• Comprehensive group health plans (EPO, PPO, and High Deductible Health Plans with Health Savings Account), dental, vision, and supplemental plans (e.g., voluntary life insurance, pet insurance), effective on the first day of employment.
• Competitive 401k Plan.