Loads Engineer - Weapon Performance IV/V

The role

You will lead system-level structural loads and dynamics analysis for air-launched effects, tactical interceptors and next-generation munitions. The work covers full-vehicle models, store separation loads and validation through ground testing, from concept through qualification.

What you will do

• Assemble and maintain full-vehicle structural models for loads and vibration analysis.
• Perform MIL-STD-8591 store carriage, suspension and separation loads analysis for systems on host aircraft.
• Guide ground testing (modal survey, ground vibration, static load) and correlate models to test data.
• Establish shared loads and dynamics methods and document procedures.
• Support aeroelastic analysis (flutter and dynamic response) across the flight envelope.
• Collaborate with Structures, Aerodynamics, Propulsion, GNC and Systems Engineering on vehicle-level decisions.
• Conduct trade studies and sensitivity analyses on structural and dynamic parameters.
• Write technical reports and present at design reviews (PDR, CDR).
• Interface with customers, presenting technical results.
• Mentor other engineers and review their analysis approaches.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.
• 8+ years of system-level structural and dynamics analysis using complex numerical simulation in a program-driven environment.
• Experience building and maintaining full-vehicle finite element models (e.g., NASTRAN/PATRAN, ANSYS).
• Experience with aeroelastic analysis (flutter, divergence, dynamic response) using tools such as ZAERO or NASTRAN aeroelasticity modules.
• Experience planning or guiding ground vibration, modal survey or static load tests and correlating results to models.
• Experience validating structural dynamic models against flight or ground test data.
• Experience with MIL-STD-8591 or equivalent store carriage and separation loads analysis.
• Programming or scripting proficiency (Python, MATLAB or similar).
• Experience with version control (Git, SVN).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DoD Secret security clearance.
• Must qualify as a U.S. Person under ITAR regulations.

Nice to have

• Understanding of composite materials structural analysis and design.
• A formal composites certification process completed.

Benefits

• Competitive total compensation package.
• Medical, dental, vision and life insurance options.
• 401k with company match.
• 3 weeks of paid time off each year.
• 40 hours of sick time.
• 12 annual company holidays.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• Collaborative, innovative work environment.

Before you apply

• Must obtain and maintain a U.S. DoD Secret security clearance.
• Must qualify as a U.S. Person under ITAR regulations.
• Must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States upon hire (E-Verify used).

About the company

Zone 5 Technologies develops precision weapons, interceptors and unmanned aircraft systems for the United States and its allies. It is a federal contractor.