Stress Analyst

Swarm Aero is redefining air power, building the largest swarming UAV and the most versatile swarming aircraft network in the world. The company is moving quickly to launch the first aircraft designed specifically for swarming, as well as the Command & Control software to mobilize swarms of thousands of heterogeneous autonomous assets and empower human operators to achieve superhuman results.  

The team has created and exited multiple startups, negotiated defense deals worth billions of dollars, and designed and built 30+ novel aircraft, with aerospace experience from Scaled Composites, SpaceX, Airbus, Archer Aviation, Blue Origin, and Boom Supersonic. 

Swarm Aero is seeking an experienced Stress Analyst to join our aerospace engineering team. In this role, you'll be responsible for ensuring the structural integrity and safety of our vehicle designs through comprehensive analysis, testing, and validation. You'll serve as a technical leader, developing best practices and mentoring team members while working cross-functionally to balance engineering performance with practical constraints. This position offers the opportunity to shape both individual designs and company-wide standards, taking projects from initial concept through regulatory certification.
 

What you’ll do: 

• Lead the development of conceptual and preliminary aircraft component sizing. 

• Perform structural analysis using hand calculations and finite element analysis (FEA) across a wide range of designs and materials, including composites and metallics. 

• Create and refine aircraft, assembly, and component level finite element models. 

• Conduct advanced feasibility studies to ensure aircraft designs meet performance, weight, and cost targets. 

• Establish and maintain best practices, analysis standards, and traceability, streamlining workflows through the automation of analysis processes with existing and newly developed tools. 

• Support fast-paced prototype and production aircraft design with a focus on manufacturability. 

• Provide technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to junior analysts and engineers. 

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure design feasibility, manufacturability, and compliance with certification requirements. 

What you’ve done: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (advanced degree preferred). 

• 7+ years of experience in composite structural analysis for aircraft, spacecraft, or similar vehicles. 

• Developed a deep understanding of material properties, failure mechanisms, and structural dynamics. 

• Strong expertise in CAD and FEM tools, particularly Siemens NX, Simcenter, Femap, or equivalent software. 

• Led the design and analysis of composite structures throughout the product lifecycle, from conceptualization to production. 

• Familiarity with aviation industry standards and DoD certification requirements. 

What sets you apart: 

• Extensive experience in new product development, particularly in small, agile teams. 

• Experience in composite aircraft manufacturing techniques, including bonded structures. 

• Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills, along with strong design experience using Siemens NX and experience with PLM systems like Teamcenter.

• Comprehensive knowledge of aviation industry practices and DoD certification standards. 

• Outstanding communication, time management, collaboration, and leadership abilities, with a proven track record of successfully working in cross-functional teams. 

What We Offer: 

• Meaningful equity stake in a high-growth defense technology company
• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience  
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
• PTO and paid sick time
• Monthly Wellness Stipend
• Daily catered lunch to office
• Paid parental leave
• Direct impact opportunity - be a key leader in building a critical technology for national security
• World-class team - work alongside exceptional engineers and operators solving hard problems 

Salary Range: $175,000 - $220,000 + Equity

As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and trustworthy work environment, Swarm Aero conducts a thorough screening of prospective employees. Candidates will be subject to a comprehensive background verification process as a prerequisite for employment.