Junior Aerospace Design Engineer at Van's Aircraft, Inc. – Aurora, Oregon

Van’s Aircraft is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Aerospace Design Engineer to join our engineering team. This is an opportunity to contribute directly to the design, analysis, and development of high‑performance kit aircraft that inspire builders and pilots around the world. You’ll work on real aircraft structures and systems, collaborate across teams, and gain hands-on experience that accelerates your growth as an engineer. If you’re excited about aviation and eager to build your technical foundation, we’d love to meet you.

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Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept:
- Design & Develop: Build and update 3D CAD models and technical drawings for airframes, assemblies, and tooling in SolidWorks, with guidance from senior engineers.
- Analyze & Validate: Perform basic structural analysis using hand calculations and introductory FEA techniques to support design decisions.
- Performance Support: Assist in gathering data and preparing materials for aerodynamic and performance evaluations.
- Test Participation: Support structural and flight testing activities by helping with test setup, instrumentation, data collection, and preliminary analysis.
- Prototyping: Contribute to prototyping efforts by helping fabricate, assemble, and evaluate parts and systems to confirm design intent.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with production, supply chain, and customer support teams to understand manufacturability and help resolve design-related questions.
- Documentation: Prepare and update engineering documentation, including drawings, assembly instructions, and service information.
- Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to improve part quality, manufacturability, or builder experience and support implementation of improvements.
- Customer Interaction: Occasionally assist with customer inquiries or help represent Van’s Aircraft at events and fly-ins.
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What You’ll Bring to the Team:
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, or Mechanical Engineering.
- 1–3 years of experience in aircraft or mechanical design (internships, co-ops, or project-based experience welcome).
- Foundational understanding of aircraft structures, mechanical systems, or manufacturing processes.
- Proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) and 2D drafting fundamentals.
- Familiarity with FEA tools or structural analysis methods.
- Strong attention to detail and a willingness to learn through hands-on work.
- Ability to communicate clearly and collaborate effectively within a team.
- Solid written communication skills for documentation and cross-functional coordination.
- Interest in aviation—experience building or flying experimental aircraft, or a pilot certificate, is a plus but not required

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Work Environment:
This role offers a balance of office-based design work and hands-on engineering activities in a production setting. Some travel (up to 10%) may be required for flight testing, trade shows, or customer support. Expect to spend most of your time seated, with periods of standing, walking, and light lifting as part of prototyping or testing.

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Equal Employment Opportunity:
Van’s Aircraft is committed to equal employment opportunity and a diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

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