Principal Design Engineer

About the role

The Principal Design Engineer will support new design and modifications of aircraft structures and systems, delivering high‑quality solutions on time. The role is based on Airbus' Wichita State University innovation campus, the company’s first dedicated engineering facility outside Europe.

Key responsibilities

• Design metallic and non‑metallic parts and system installations (electrical, hydraulic, fuel) while collaborating with static stress and fatigue teams.
• Create and modify technical documents such as Design Datasets and Product Structures using SAP, CATIA, VPM and other Airbus tools.
• Lead complex technical problems, mentor junior designers, and act as a spokesperson on advanced projects.
• Set project objectives, timelines, and tasks, ensuring delivery of innovative solutions.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Civil or related engineering with strong emphasis on structural design.
• Minimum 13 years of experience in airframe structure design and/or system installation projects.
• Authorized to work in the United States.
• Proven ability to work independently and in fast‑paced team environments.

Required skills

• CATIA V5 and/or 3DExperience (multiple workbenches).
• SAP, VPM, and other Airbus computer‑based applications.
• Microsoft Excel and Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail).
• Programming in C, C++, Python (preferred).

What we offer

• Competitive base salary with incentive compensation and profit‑sharing possibilities.
• Retirement savings plan, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and other financial benefits.
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, plus Employee Assistance Program.
• Paid time off, generous parental leave, and flexible working arrangements.
• Access to unlimited e‑learning courses, leadership development programs and international mobility opportunities.