Structural Analysis and Test Engineer

About the Company

ANAVIA specializes in the design, development, and manufacturing of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) systems of up to 500 kilograms. The company offers industry-leading unmanned helicopter systems for various mission profiles, including Surveillance & Reconnaissance, Inspection, Mapping, and Cargo.

Your Role

In this position, you will engage in thorough finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate the structural integrity of unmanned helicopter components. Your responsibilities will include conducting load and fatigue analyses, examining composite and metallic structures, executing structural tests, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure optimum design and performance integration.

Main Responsibilities

• Structural Analysis and Simulation: Conduct detailed finite element analysis (FEA) using tools such as FEMAP, NASTRAN, and ANSYS to assess the structural integrity of components, including rotor heads, propulsion systems, composite structures, and landing gear.
• Load and Fatigue Analysis: Perform static, dynamic, vibration, and fatigue analyses to evaluate performance under both operational and extreme load conditions, particularly regarding the impact of cyclic loads on rotating machinery and composite materials.
• Composite and Metallic Structures: Analyze composite layups, bonding interfaces, and hybrid metal-composite structures, ensuring optimized strength-to-weight ratios and compliance with aerospace standards.
• Test and Correlation: Develop and execute structural testing, utilizing strain gauge instrumentation, accelerometers, and DAQ systems. Correlate test data with FEA predictions to refine models for enhanced simulation accuracy.
• Documentation: Prepare comprehensive engineering documentation, including design specifications, testing procedures, and maintenance manuals.
• Collaboration: Partner closely with electrical, aerodynamic, and software engineering teams to ensure seamless design integration and performance of the unmanned helicopter systems.
• Compliance Assurance: Ensure the mechanical designs adhere to relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and internal policies.
• Continuous Improvement: Stay updated on advancements in mechanical engineering and UAV technology, incorporating best practices into the analysis processes.

Qualifications

• Education: A Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field, along with three years of industry experience. A Doctoral degree will be considered equivalent to industry experience.
• Experience: Proven experience in structural analysis, preferably within the manned helicopter industry. Experience with composite structures or rotating machinery is essential, while hands-on experience in structural testing is desirable.
• Skills: Strong understanding of finite element principles, materials science, and failure criteria. Proficiency in FEA software (preferably ANSYS and Optistruct) and simulation tools is a must.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills alongside strong social acumen, analytical capabilities, and technical understanding.

Join the Anavia Family

Become part of a committed, international team that is eager to work on exciting projects. We offer ample room for growth, support for training, and opportunities for personal and professional development. Enjoy team events where we celebrate our successes together, all within a beautiful office environment overlooking the Swiss mountains in Näfels, Glarus Nord.

If you seek a multicultural, challenging, and innovative working atmosphere, we look forward to your interest!