Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Define design requirements such as range, speed, payload, fuel load and passenger or cargo capacity with customers or project leaders.
Size the wings, tail and fuselage and choose the basic layout using aerodynamic and weight estimates.
Run calculations and computer simulations (CFD and structural analysis) to check lift, drag, stability and stress.
Create and update 3D CAD models and engineering drawings that manufacturing teams use.
Select materials, such as aluminium alloys and composites, and check that parts can be made and maintained.
Track weight, balance and performance targets as the design changes through review cycles.
Prepare test plans and documents so the design can meet airworthiness and certification standards set by regulators.
