Principal Structural Engineer

  • Meritus
  • Stevenage, Hertfordshire
  • Feb 09, 2026
Contractor Government

Job Description

Job Title
Principal Structural Engineer
Stevenage
4 days onsite, 1 WFH

Contract Details
12 month contract
50 per hour
Inside IR35

Overview
A leading engineering organisation operating in the defence and advanced systems sector is looking to engage a Principal Structural Engineer to support complex mechanical analysis activities. You will join an established structural analysis function working on high integrity, safety critical products.

This role suits someone who is technically strong, decisive, and comfortable owning complex analysis tasks from concept through to delivery.

Key Responsibilities
You will be responsible for delivering high quality structural analysis to ensure products meet demanding performance and regulatory requirements. The role involves supporting design teams with both detailed and rapid assessments to enable efficient design progression.

Required Skills and Experience
Degree qualified in a STEM subject.

Strong background in structural analysis using hand calculations and Finite Element methods.

Experience with FE tools such as Altair is preferred, however candidates with experience using NASTRAN, ANSYS or equivalent will be considered.

Experience in one or more of the following areas
Static analysis
Dynamic analysis
Fatigue analysis
Metallic and or composite structures
Finite Element optimisation and Design of Experiments
Mechanisms and multi body dynamics
Crash or impact analysis

Ability to make fast, pragmatic engineering judgements to keep design activities moving.

Comfortable taking ownership of complex analysis tasks with minimal supervision.

Able to work effectively within a multi disciplinary engineering environment, while also operating independently when required.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to engage technical stakeholders.

Experience within defence, aerospace or other safety critical engineering sectors is advantageous.