Lead the Design of Next-Generation Aircraft Interiors — Senior Structure & Payload Design Engineer NeededPDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leading name in the aviation industry to find an experienced Structure & Payload Design Engineer ready to take ownership of complex aircraft interior and structural systems. This is your opportunity to lead high-impact engineering work on elite aerospace programs and shape the future of aviation design.
About the RoleAs a Structure & Payload Design Engineer, you will provide technical leadership and strategic oversight in developing and integrating advanced aircraft interior and structural payload systems. Based in San Antonio, TX, this role places you at the center of VIP aircraft modification programs—guiding design excellence from concept through production while ensuring mission-critical performance and precision.
What You’ll DoIn this leadership role, you will:
- Oversee and direct the development of structural and interior payload system requirements and designs
- Lead the creation, modification, and lifecycle support of designs using 3D CAD tools (CATIA, ENOVIA, IVT)
- Provide expert shipside engineering support for insulation systems (blankets), aircraft monuments, and real-time production modifications
- Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in insulation design, driving technical solutions and accelerating project delivery
- Lead test integration, validation, and analysis to ensure systems meet all requirements and specifications
- Manage supplier development, production activities, and cross-functional collaboration to achieve program goals
- Develop and implement new design processes, tools, and methodologies to improve efficiency and quality
- Investigate and integrate emerging technologies into future product designs
- Support hands-on work in production environments, including scaffolding and onboard aircraft during active modifications
Required Qualifications- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or related field
- 14+ years of experience (Bachelor’s) / 12+ years (Master’s) / 9+ years (PhD) in relevant engineering roles
- Extensive experience with aircraft interior systems, shipside support, and insulation/blankets design
- Proficiency in CATIA, ENOVIA, IVT, or equivalent 3D CAD tools
- Ability to work flexible shifts (1st or 2nd shift) based on program needs
- Must be eligible to obtain a Security Clearance.
- This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience supporting VIP or military aircraft modification programs
- Familiarity with aviation processes and aerospace defense platforms
- Demonstrated leadership in engineering teams, supplier coordination, or program execution
- Strong ability to work effectively in fast-paced, production-driven environments
Why Join UsAt PDS Tech Commercial, we connect top-tier engineers with world-class aerospace innovation. In this role, you will benefit from:
- Premium Pay: Starting at $94.68 per hour
- Leadership Impact: Take ownership of major design initiatives on high-visibility programs
- Hands-On Innovation: Work directly on aircraft, seeing your designs come to life
- Collaborative Excellence: Partner with industry leaders across engineering, manufacturing, and supplier teams
- Career Growth: Expand your influence, technical expertise, and leadership capabilities
- Flexible Shifts: Choose from 1st or 2nd shift to align with production priorities
Position Details- Location: San Antonio, TX
- Schedule: Monday–Friday 1st Shift (5:30 AM – 2:00 PM) or 2nd Shift (1:30 PM – 10:00 PM)
- Job Type: Full-Time, 6-Month Consultant Assignment
Ready to Elevate Your Engineering Career?If you’re a seasoned aerospace engineer ready to lead complex design programs and make a lasting impact, this is your opportunity to step into a high-visibility, high-reward role.
Apply today and help shape the future of aircraft design and innovation.
Pay Details: $94.68 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
- The California Fair Chance Act
- Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
- Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
- San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
