NIAR CONSULTANT - Senior Design Engineer- Structures

Job Summary

Since its inception in 1985, the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) at Wichita State University has established itself as a leading university‑based aviation research center. NIAR serves the aviation manufacturing industry, government agencies, educational institutions, and other clients through research, design, testing, certification, and training.

NIAR is seeking a Senior Systems Design Engineer – Structures to support diverse customer programs.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed design concepts through final design, ensuring all solutions meet contractual and producibility requirements for end‑item deliverables such as structural modifications, mechanical components, and primary and secondary structural details and installations.
• Create CAD models, drawings and other documentation; conduct trade studies; develop and maintain interface control documents (ICDs); and coordinate closely with customers.
• Provide technical leadership and adhere to project schedules within the assignment area, covering primary structure, flight‑test and development structure, special mission equipment, and prototype development.
• Communicate design decisions and issues with customers, covering metallic/composite part design, systems integration, materials, finishes, and processes.

Qualifications / Minimum Requirements

• Ability to work on‑site 80% of the time.
• Requirement to access EAR or ITAR‑controlled technologies; must be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and be a U.S. Citizen.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, structural, aerospace or related discipline with 10 years of experience.
• High proficiency with 3D CAD tools (3DEXPERIENCE, CATIA V5, Siemens NX, SolidWorks).
• Familiarity with NASA and/or FAA structural design standards.
• Experience with airframe structure design, special‑mission modification design, and prototypes.
• Experience developing and modifying 3D models, drawings, and MBD designs.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, design fundamentals, and ASME standards (Y14.5, Y14.31, Y14.37, Y14.41).
• Proficiency in GD&T tolerance application and statistical stack‑up analysis.
• Experience designing metallic and composite parts using the appropriate CAD workbenches.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Professional and diplomatic demeanor.
• Strong sense of accountability and integrity.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Domestic travel up to 10% may be required.
• Experience in technical leadership and mentoring of interns and junior engineers.
• Self‑motivated and driven to produce high‑quality designs on schedule.

Preferred Experience

• Experience leading small teams and/or serving as a technical specialist.
• Experience creating structural/mechanical layouts and concept designs.
• Aircraft support/MRB experience.
• Experience in a customer‑facing role.

All services will be provided as an independent contractor pursuant to a Professional Services Agreement, which must be executed prior to being assigned any work.

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