Aircraft Design Engineer
Sarla Aviation
About Sarla Aviation:
Sarla Aviation is at the forefront of revolutionizing urban air mobility with its cutting-edge eVTOL (electric Vertical Take-off and Landing) aircraft featuring innovative tilt-rotor technology. Sarla Aviation, a pioneer in the development of sustainable, efficient, and safe air transportation systems, is dedicated to influencing the future of aviation. We are seeking a skilled and driven Aircraft Design Engineer to join our expanding team and contribute to the success of our eVTOL program.
About the role:
We're looking for a highly skilled and driven eVTOL Aircraft Design Engineer with 5-8 years of expertise to join our unique engineering team. This role entails designing and developing electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, with a focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies and achieving optimal performance. The ideal candidate will have experience in aircraft systems, aerodynamics, and structural design, as well as a strong commitment to sustainable aviation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the design and optimization of the eVTOL aircraft configuration, including propeller layout, component sizing, and mass estimation.
- Utilize Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) concepts in the design of various aircraft components to ensure a systematic, integrated approach.
- Select and design airfoils based on MDO concepts to improve aerodynamic efficiency, structural integrity, and propeller interaction.
- Design aerodynamic surfaces, such as interfaces, to minimize drag and improve the lift-to-drag ratio for better overall efficiency.
- Build low fidelity structural beam model to evaluate aircraft eigen modes to assess aircraft performance.
- Conduct aerodynamic and stability analysis (longitudinal, lateral, and directional) to ensure safe and balanced flight behaviour.
- Refine stability and control characteristics for all flight phases, ensuring compliance with dynamic stability requirements and regulatory standards.
- Define and evaluate handling qualities according to FAA/EASA/DGCA guidelines, ensuring responsiveness and operational ease.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate propulsion, aerodynamics, and control systems into a cohesive design.
- Prepare documentation for stability, handling qualities, and control systems to meet regularity requirements.
- Collaborate with flight test teams to analyse data, ensuring the aircraft meets stability, performance, and handling quality goals.
- Act as the technical interface with certification authorities to ensure compliance with airworthiness and certification standards.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in aerospace engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- 5-8 years of experience in aircraft design, preferably with a focus on eVTOL.
- Solid understanding of aerodynamics, aircraft structures, and propulsion systems, with hands-on experience in design and analysis.
- Experience with simulation & modelling tools (e.g., Starccm+, NX, MATLAB, Simulink) for performance analysis and optimization.
- Knowledge of relevant aviation regulations and certification processes (e.g., FAA, EASA) is highly desirable.
- Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyse complex engineering problems and propose effective solutions.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
- A passion for innovation, sustainable aviation, and the future of eVTOL aircraft.
Desired Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- Direct experience in the design and development of composite materials for aircraft structures.
- Hands-on experience with electric propulsion systems for aircraft.
- Expertise in lightweight materials and composites used in aircraft design, including advanced manufacturing techniques.
- Previous experience in a startup or fast-paced engineering environment.
- Strong background in the aero structural design and optimization of aircraft components.
Sarla Aviation is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workspace, championing equality and empowering every individual. We believe that our strength lies in our differences, not just our similarities. Therefore, we warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their ethnicity, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or age. Join us at Sarla Aviation, where your unique background and perspective are not just welcomed—they are celebrated.