Loads Engineer - Weapon Performance IV/V

The role

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

What you will do

• Assemble and maintain full-vehicle structural models for loads and vibration analysis.
• Perform MIL-STD-8591-type store carriage, suspension, and separation loads analysis.
• Guide ground testing (modal survey, ground vibration testing, static load testing) and correlate models to test data.
• Set up shared loads and dynamics methods and document procedures.
• Support aeroelastic analysis (flutter and dynamic aeroelastic response).
• Work with Structures, Aerodynamics, Propulsion, GNC, and Systems Engineering on vehicle-level design decisions.
• Run trade studies and sensitivity analyses on structural and dynamic parameters.
• Write technical reports and presentations, including for PDR and CDR.
• Present technical results to customers.
• Mentor other engineers on loads and dynamics methods and review their work.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field. A Master's is typical; exceptional applied experience can substitute.
• 8+ years of system-level structural and dynamics analysis using complex numerical simulation in an applied, 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 testing, 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 (e.g., 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 design, particularly a formal composites certification process.

Benefits

• Competitive total compensation package
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and other benefit options
• 401k with company match
• 3 weeks of paid time off each year
• 40 hours of sick time
• 12 annual company holidays
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement

Before you apply

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