Structural Engineer - Stress, Design, Systems Engineer

SOGECLAIR
Full-time

πŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Structural Engineer - Stress, Design, Systems Engineer

Company: SOGECLAIR

Location: Clearfield, Utah, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical)

Date Posted: 2026-09-03

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid/Remote Available

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • This role is for experienced Structural Stress, Structural Design, and Systems Engineers within the aerospace and defense sector, focusing on advanced aircraft programs.

  • Candidates will contribute to the development, modification, and integration of aircraft structural components and complex systems, leveraging expertise in metallic and composite materials.

  • The position requires a strong understanding of structural analysis, design principles, and systems engineering methodologies for aircraft applications.

  • Opportunities exist for onsite roles in Utah and Kansas, as well as fully remote positions, depending on the specific program and engineering discipline.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: While the job title is broad, the description clearly delineates three specialized tracks: Structural Stress, Structural Design, and Systems Engineering. Applicants should identify which track aligns with their expertise. The hybrid/remote flexibility is a significant draw, particularly for experienced professionals.

πŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Design and develop aircraft structural components, assemblies, and installations, ensuring manufacturability, maintainability, and integration.

  • Perform comprehensive structural analysis on metallic and composite aircraft structures, including static strength, fatigue, durability, and damage-tolerance assessments.

  • Execute finite element analysis (FEA) using industry-standard software such as ANSYS or Abaqus for structural substantiation.

  • Support the development, integration, and verification of complex aircraft systems, managing system-level requirements and interfaces.

  • Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary engineering teams, including Stress, Design, Systems, Manufacturing, and Avionics, to resolve interface and integration challenges.

  • Develop and modify 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings using CATIA V5 and SolidWorks.

  • Create detailed engineering calculations, reports, and structural substantiation documentation to support program requirements.

  • Coordinate engineering activities across various technical disciplines, ensuring seamless system development and integration.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are divided into three distinct functional areas (Structural Design, Structural Stress, Systems Engineering). The core responsibilities listed here synthesize common tasks and specific duties from each track, emphasizing the collaborative and analytical nature of the role.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline is preferred.

Experience: Previous aerospace or defense engineering experience is required. A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience is anticipated for this role, with specific expertise in at least one of the following: Structural Stress, Structural Design, or Systems Engineering.

Required Skills:

  • Expertise in either Structural Stress Analysis, Structural Design, or Systems Engineering within the aerospace domain.

  • Experience supporting programs involving metallic structures, composite structures, or both.

  • Proficiency with CAD software, specifically CATIA V5 and/or SolidWorks, for design and modeling activities.

  • For Structural Stress roles: Demonstrated experience with finite element analysis (FEA) software such as ANSYS and/or Abaqus.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities to address complex engineering challenges.

  • Excellent technical communication skills, both written and verbal, for report generation and cross-functional team interaction.

  • Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

  • U.S. Citizenship is a mandatory requirement due to program sensitivities. Preferred Skills:

  • Primary aircraft structure experience is strongly preferred for Structural Stress and Structural Design positions.

  • Experience with system-level requirements management and interface definition for Systems Engineers.

  • Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing processes and their impact on design.

  • Knowledge of fatigue, durability, and damage-tolerance analysis methodologies.

  • Experience with systems integration and verification processes in an aerospace context.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The "5-10 years" experience level is inferred from the AI's general experience level assessment, fitting between junior and senior roles and aligning with the complexity of the responsibilities. The U.S. Citizenship requirement is critical and explicitly stated.

πŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Demonstrations of complex structural analysis performed, including methodologies used (e.g., FEA) and resulting substantiation reports for metallic and composite components.

  • Examples of 3D models, assemblies, and detailed engineering drawings created using CATIA V5 or SolidWorks, showcasing design intent and technical specifications.

  • Case studies detailing system integration challenges faced and resolved, including requirement management, interface control, and verification processes for aerospace systems.

  • Projects that highlight collaboration with cross-functional teams (e.g., manufacturing, stress, systems), illustrating problem-solving and communication skills.

  • Documentation showcasing experience with various analysis types such as static strength, fatigue, durability, and damage tolerance. Process Documentation:

  • Workflows demonstrating the process from initial concept or requirement to final design release, including design reviews and iteration cycles.

  • Documentation of system development lifecycles, from requirements definition through integration and verification.

  • Examples of how engineering calculations and analyses were used to inform design decisions and ensure structural integrity or system functionality.

  • Evidence of process optimization efforts or contributions to improving design or analysis workflows.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: For engineering roles, particularly in aerospace, a portfolio is crucial. This section assumes a need for concrete examples demonstrating technical proficiency, design capabilities, analytical rigor, and collaborative project execution. The emphasis is on showcasing the full lifecycle of engineering work.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for experienced Structural Engineers (Stress, Design) and Systems Engineers in the aerospace sector within the United States, particularly in regions with defense contracting presence, a competitive salary range is estimated. For candidates with 5-10 years of experience, this would typically fall between $90,000 and $135,000 USD annually. This estimate accounts for the specialized skills, required education, and the critical nature of aerospace engineering work. Factors such as specific program requirements, security clearances, and exact location (e.g., high cost of living areas) can influence the final offer.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

  • Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company match.

  • Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

  • Potential for professional development and continued education support.

  • Opportunities for participation in advanced aerospace projects.

  • Flexible work arrangements (hybrid/remote options) where applicable.

Working Hours: The standard workweek is typically 40 hours, with potential for overtime depending on program demands and project deadlines. The hybrid and remote work options offer flexibility in scheduling, allowing for focused work periods and effective collaboration.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on the AI's experience level assessment (5-10 years), the specific engineering disciplines (Structural Stress, Design, Systems), and the high-demand aerospace industry in the United States. Regional cost of living and the specialized nature of the work are factored in. Benefits are standard for full-time engineering roles in the US.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace & Defense. SOGECLAIR operates within a highly regulated and technologically advanced sector, focusing on aircraft structures and systems. This implies a culture that prioritizes precision, safety, quality, and innovation.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, SOGECLAIR is a global company with multiple locations, suggesting a medium to large enterprise structure. This often means established processes, career development paths, and opportunities for cross-functional collaboration on significant projects.

Founded: Founded in 1988, SOGECLAIR has a significant history in the aerospace industry, indicating stability and deep-rooted expertise. This longevity suggests a company that values experience and long-term relationships with its employees and clients.

Team Structure:

  • The engineering teams are likely organized by discipline (Structural Stress, Structural Design, Systems Engineering) and by program.

  • Reporting structures will probably follow a hierarchical model common in engineering firms, with leads, managers, and directors overseeing specific projects or functional areas.

  • Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with engineers working closely with manufacturing, supply chain, program management, and quality assurance teams to ensure successful project execution. Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Design & Analysis: Emphasizing the use of engineering principles, simulation tools (FEA, CAD), and rigorous analysis to inform design decisions and validate structural integrity and system performance.

  • Process-Oriented Development: Adherence to established aerospace engineering processes, standards, and documentation requirements, ensuring compliance and traceability.

  • Collaborative Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages open communication and teamwork to tackle complex technical challenges, integrate diverse systems, and achieve project milestones efficiently.

Company Website: https://www.sogeclair.com/

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Company context is inferred from the industry and the nature of the role. A global aerospace company typically fosters a culture of technical excellence, rigorous process adherence, and strong teamwork.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-level to senior engineering position. Candidates are expected to possess substantial expertise in their chosen discipline (Structural Stress, Design, or Systems) and be capable of working independently on complex tasks, contributing to design decisions, and potentially mentoring junior engineers. The scope involves supporting advanced aerospace programs, indicating a role with significant technical responsibility and impact.

Reporting Structure: Engineers will likely report to a Lead Engineer or Engineering Manager within their specific discipline or program. They will collaborate closely with peers across different engineering functions and potentially interface with program managers and customer representatives.

Operations Impact: These engineers play a critical role in the safety, performance, and reliability of advanced aircraft. Their work directly impacts the structural integrity, system functionality, and overall success of major aerospace programs, contributing significantly to the company's reputation and revenue generation through successful project delivery.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Specialization Advancement: Deepening expertise within Structural Stress, Structural Design, or Systems Engineering, potentially leading to subject matter expert (SME) roles or specialized technical leadership.

  • Project Leadership: Opportunities to lead engineering tasks, manage smaller projects, or take on increasing responsibility within larger, more complex aerospace programs.

  • Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gaining exposure to other engineering disciplines through collaboration, fostering a broader understanding of aircraft development and potentially enabling career transitions.

  • Management Track: For those interested in leadership, progression into roles such as Engineering Team Lead, Project Manager, or Engineering Manager.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The "5-10 years" experience level implies a role beyond entry-level, with significant autonomy and potential for growth into leadership or specialized technical expert positions within the aerospace engineering field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role offers flexibility with options for onsite work in Clearfield, Utah, and potentially Wichita, Kansas, as well as fully remote positions. Onsite environments are expected to be typical engineering office settings, fostering collaboration and access to company resources.

Office Location(s):

  • Clearfield, Utah, USA (Onsite)

  • Wichita, Kansas, USA (Onsite)

  • Remote within the United States Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Environment: Onsite roles will feature open-plan or cubicle-style offices designed to facilitate communication and teamwork among engineers and project teams.

  • Technology Access: Engineers will have access to high-performance workstations equipped with specialized aerospace engineering software (CAD, FEA, requirements management tools) and robust IT infrastructure.

  • Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with colleagues, participation in design reviews, team meetings, and informal knowledge-sharing sessions will be prevalent.

Work Schedule: Standard professional work hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected. The hybrid and remote options provide flexibility in managing daily schedules, allowing engineers to balance work and personal commitments while meeting project deadlines and team collaboration needs.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The hybrid/remote availability is a key aspect. Onsite roles will reflect a standard engineering office environment, emphasizing collaboration and access to specialized tools.

πŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: A review of your resume and qualifications to assess fit with one of the three engineering disciplines (Stress, Design, Systems).

  • Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on your specific engineering expertise. Expect questions on structural analysis principles, CAD/FEA software usage, system integration concepts, and problem-solving scenarios relevant to aerospace.

  • Portfolio Review: A critical step where you will present examples of your past work. This may involve walking through a specific project, explaining your design choices, analytical methods, and the outcomes. Be prepared to discuss challenges encountered and how you overcame them.

  • Behavioral/Team Fit Interview: Assessment of your collaboration skills, communication style, and how you align with SOGECLAIR's engineering culture. Questions about teamwork, handling conflict, and adapting to change are common.

  • Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership or hiring managers, focusing on overall fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in your chosen discipline (Stress, Design, or Systems).

  • Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the solutions you implemented, and the quantifiable results or benefits achieved (e.g., improved structural integrity by X%, reduced weight by Y%, successfully integrated Z system).

  • Showcase Process: Walk through your methodologyβ€”from understanding requirements to analysis, design, and validation. Highlight your use of tools like CATIA V5, SolidWorks, ANSYS, or Abaqus.

  • Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical decisions, the assumptions made, and the trade-offs considered.

  • Highlight Collaboration: If applicable, describe how you worked with other teams and how your contributions integrated with their efforts.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Technical Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical engineering problems. You might be asked to outline an approach to analyze a specific structural component or troubleshoot a system integration issue.

  • Software Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience and comfort level with the required software tools.

  • Aerospace Context: Brush up on fundamental aerospace engineering principles, relevant standards, and current industry trends.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The interview process for engineering roles, especially in aerospace, is rigorous. A strong portfolio showcasing technical depth, analytical skills, and practical application of tools is paramount. Emphasis is placed on demonstrating problem-solving capabilities and collaborative potential.

πŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • CAD Software: CATIA V5 and SolidWorks are explicitly mentioned for design, modeling, and creating engineering drawings. Proficiency in at least one is required.

  • FEA Software: ANSYS and/or Abaqus are critical for Structural Stress Engineers, used for performing finite element analysis and structural substantiation.

  • Requirements Management Tools: While not explicitly named, Systems Engineers will likely use tools for defining, tracking, and managing system-level requirements and interfaces (e.g., DOORS, Jama Connect).

  • Collaboration Platforms: Tools for team communication, project management, and document sharing (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Jira, Confluence) are standard in such environments.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Analysis Tools: ANSYS/Abaqus for complex structural simulations; other analytical tools may be used for system performance evaluation.

  • Reporting Software: Standard office suites (e.g., Microsoft Office) for generating engineering reports, calculations, and presentations.

CRM & Automation:

  • Not directly applicable to this engineering role, as the focus is on technical design and analysis rather than sales or customer relationship management. However, project management or PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems might be used for workflow automation and data integration.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This section highlights the specific software and tools critical for success in each engineering track. Proficiency in these tools is a key differentiator for candidates.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Technical Excellence: A commitment to high standards in engineering analysis, design, and problem-solving, grounded in scientific principles and best practices.

  • Integrity & Safety: Paramount importance placed on the reliability, safety, and structural integrity of aircraft components and systems, adhering to strict industry regulations.

  • Collaboration & Teamwork: A belief in the power of multidisciplinary teams to achieve complex engineering goals, encouraging open communication and mutual support.

  • Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas and approaches to design, analysis, and process optimization to enhance performance, efficiency, and technological advancement.

  • Precision & Detail: A meticulous approach to design, analysis, and documentation, recognizing that small details can have significant impacts in aerospace applications.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Engineers are expected to work seamlessly with peers from different disciplines (stress, design, systems, manufacturing, avionics) to ensure holistic project success.

  • Constructive Feedback: A culture that values constructive criticism and open dialogue during design reviews and technical discussions to refine solutions.

  • Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the dissemination of technical knowledge and lessons learned across teams to foster collective growth and prevent recurring issues.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style are inferred from the industry (Aerospace & Defense) and the nature of engineering work, which demands precision, safety, and intense teamwork.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Complexity of Aerospace Systems: Dealing with intricate, interconnected systems and structures that require deep technical understanding and meticulous analysis.

  • Stringent Regulatory Environment: Navigating and adhering to rigorous aerospace standards (e.g., FAA, EASA, military specifications) and ensuring compliance in all work.

  • Integration Issues: Resolving complex interface and integration challenges between diverse structural and system components, often requiring creative problem-solving.

  • Rapid Technological Advancements: Keeping pace with evolving materials, manufacturing techniques, and digital engineering tools in a dynamic industry.

  • Program Demands: Managing workload and meeting tight deadlines on critical aerospace programs, which can involve significant pressure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Specialized Training: Opportunities for advanced training in specific engineering disciplines, software tools, or aerospace technologies.

  • Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining relevant professional certifications or accreditations.

  • Mentorship Programs: Access to experienced engineers and technical leaders for guidance and career development.

  • Exposure to Cutting-Edge Projects: Working on advanced aircraft programs that push the boundaries of aerospace engineering and provide hands-on learning experiences.

  • Cross-Training: Opportunities to learn about related engineering fields, broadening skill sets and career prospects.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Challenges are typical for the aerospace sector, emphasizing the need for adaptability and continuous learning. Growth opportunities are framed around specialization, leadership, and technical advancement within the field.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a complex structural analysis you performed. What were the key challenges, your approach, and the outcome?" (Prepare to discuss FEA, material properties, load cases, and how you validated results.)

  • "Walk me through a significant structural design you contributed to. What were the design drivers, your modeling process, and how did you ensure manufacturability?" (Be ready to detail CAD work, design iterations, and collaboration with manufacturing.)

  • "How would you approach the integration of a new avionics system into an existing aircraft structure? What are the critical interfaces and verification steps?" (Focus on system requirements, interface control, and a structured problem-solving methodology.)

  • "Tell me about a time you had to resolve a conflict or disagreement within a multidisciplinary engineering team. How did you approach it?" (Demonstrate collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills.)

  • "How do you stay current with advancements in aerospace engineering, particularly in materials, analysis techniques, or systems integration?" (Showcase your commitment to continuous learning and industry awareness.) Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you most about SOGECLAIR and this specific engineering role?" (Research SOGECLAIR's projects, values, and recent news. Tailor your answer to highlight alignment.)

  • "How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects with competing deadlines?" (Discuss your organizational skills and ability to manage time effectively.)

  • "Describe your experience working in a hybrid or remote environment. What strategies do you use to stay connected and productive?" (If applicable, highlight your self-management and communication skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio piece, follow a clear story: Problem/Requirement -> Your Role & Approach -> Tools & Methods Used -> Solution & Results -> Lessons Learned.

  • Focus on Impact: Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Use metrics to demonstrate the value of your work.

  • Technical Depth: Be prepared to answer detailed technical questions about your work. Show your understanding of the underlying principles.

  • Visual Aids: Use clear, concise visuals (e.g., diagrams, screenshots of models, charts) to illustrate your points. Ensure proprietary information is anonymized.

  • Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice presenting your portfolio within a reasonable timeframe.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Interview questions are tailored to the engineering disciplines, emphasizing technical problem-solving, analytical rigor, and collaborative ability. Portfolio presentation is highlighted as a critical component.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this engineering position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.

  • Tailor your resume: Highlight experience and skills directly relevant to either Structural Stress, Structural Design, or Systems Engineering, using keywords from the job description (e.g., CATIA V5, ANSYS, composite structures, systems integration).

  • Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your expertise in your chosen discipline. Ensure you can clearly articulate your contributions, methodologies, and the outcomes using quantifiable metrics where possible.

  • Practice your technical explanations: Be ready to discuss your engineering approach, software proficiency, and problem-solving strategies in detail during interviews.

  • Research SOGECLAIR: Familiarize yourself with the company's aerospace projects, values, and recent achievements to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.


Application Requirements

Candidates must have a bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline and previous aerospace or defense experience. Proficiency in structural design or stress analysis tools like CATIA, SolidWorks, ANSYS, or Abaqus is required, along with U.S. Citizenship.