• Pivotal

  • Senior Composite Design Engineer
Hiring

Senior Composite Design Engineer

Product · Full-time · Palo Alto, United States

Job description

Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly, the first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.

Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal vehicles are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been in development, preparing to enter the market for over 10 years. We recently announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, planned for general release and scalable production in early 2025.

Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of technology investment today. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. We invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the design and development of composite structures and components for eVTOL aircraft, focusing on structural integrity, operator experience and weight optimization
  • Utilize CAD software and other design tools to create detailed models and drawings for composite, plastic and metal parts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with engineering specifications
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including stress engineers, manufacturing, and aerodynamics to optimize composite structures for performance and manufacturability
  • Conduct feasibility studies and trade-off analyses to evaluate various composite materials, manufacturing processes, and design concepts
  • Drive innovation by implementing advanced composite design methodologies, considering emerging materials and manufacturing technologies
  • Perform structural analysis and validation in collaboration with stress engineers, ensuring designs meet safety, regulatory, and certification requirements
  • Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence within the team

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • 8+ years of hands-on experience in composite design and development within the aerospace, aviation or automotive industry
  • Proficiency in CATIA V6 for composite design and modeling
  • Strong understanding of composite materials, manufacturing processes, and their application in aerospace structures
  • Knowledge of composite design principles, laminate theory, and structural analysis methods
  • Ability to collaborate effectively in cross-functional teams and communicate complex technical concepts clearly

Bonus Qualifications

  • Experience with eVTOL or other electric aircraft
  • Knowledge of industry standards and regulations related to composite structures in aerospace (e.g., FAA, EASA)
  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field

Personal Attributes

  • Passion for aviation and technology
  • Proven track record of delivering results
  • Strong team player with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
  • Strong sense of ownership and accountability

Salary Range


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Pivotal

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Opener is now Pivotal. Introducing the Helix, a first-of-its-kind light eVTOL and our first scalable production vehicle. Helix joins the BlackFly, Pivotal’s limited edition personal aircraft, flown by our trailblazing Early Access customers. Designed for safety, simplicity, and sustainability — and equipped for vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) — both the Helix and the BlackFly allow everyday adventurers to experience the wonder of flight. The future of aviation, with you at the controls. Come fly with us!


Employees

51-200

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