JetZero · 1 day ago
Chief Structures Engineer
Greensboro, NC
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
$200K/yr - $240K/yr
20+ years expJetZero is developing a blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft aimed at revolutionizing sustainable air travel. As a Chief Structures Engineer, you will lead the structural architecture for the BWB aircraft program, ensuring compliance and integration of various subsystems while driving innovation in airframe design.
AerospaceManufacturing
No H1B
Responsibilities
Mature the structural layout of the BWB, balancing novel load paths, aeroelastic stability, and system integration
Lead multidisciplinary trade studies (aero, propulsion integration, fuel volume, payload, structural efficiency)
Ensure manufacturability, maintainability, safety, and compliance are embedded from the outset
Oversee structural integration of major subsystems: landing gear, propulsion, cabin/cargo, systems, and EWIS
Refine the composites technology base for the program, including materials selection, structural concepts, and process capability
Build upon internal M&P specifications for prepreg, out-of-autoclave, AFP, stitched composites, and hybrid material systems
Oversee and execute coupon, element, subcomponent, and full-scale structural test programs, ensuring certification-ready data sets
Manage material allowables databases and certification methodology in alignment with regulatory authorities (FAA/EASA)
Refine the structural certification strategy for a novel BWB platform under Part 25 transport regulations
Engage with regulators to establish compliance approaches for unconventional configurations and manufacturing processes
Guide the team through structural substantiation, safety analysis, and durability & damage tolerance requirements
Work closely with aerodynamics, stability & control, propulsion integration, and loads & dynamics teams to ensure coherent design
Drive interface management across disciplines and major structural assemblies
Act as the technical bridge between conceptual design, detailed engineering, and manufacturing development
Serve as the technical authority for airframe and composites architecture within the program
Build and mentor a high-performing airframe and M&P team, growing in-house capability from the ground up
Represent the airframe function to executives, partners, and external stakeholders
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Structural Engineering (PhD preferred)
20+ years in aircraft structural design, configuration architecture, and/or materials engineering
Proven track record in large composite airframe development, ideally including certification under Part 25
Experience developing M&P specifications, test programs, and structural allowables
Strong familiarity with advanced composites manufacturing methods: AFP, resin infusion, stitching, OOA, hybrid metallic-composite concepts
Knowledge of multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) and structural sizing methods
Experience interfacing with FAA/EASA certification authorities for composite structures
Demonstrated leadership in building technical teams and organizational capability
Preferred
Direct experience with novel configurations (BWB, truss-braced wing, high aspect ratio concepts)
Hands-on background in full-scale test planning and execution
Familiarity with digital thread approaches (CAD/FEA/PLM) for composites
Strong ability to manage technology maturation roadmaps (TRL advancement)
Benefits
Unlimited PTO
10 paid holidays
401(k)
Medical, Dental, Life health insurance
Disability Insurance
Life Insurance
Equity tax advisory services
Supportive work culture
Company
JetZero
JetZero is building the world's first commercial blended wing airplane, which will (literally) reshape aviation forever.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageTotal Funding
$261.43MKey Investors
United AirlinesAlaska Star VenturesUS Air Force Reserve
2025-04-24Series Unknown
2024-08-13Series A
2023-12-29Series A· $26.43M
Leadership Team
Tom O'Leary
Co-Founder
Recent News
2025-12-08
Company data provided by crunchbase