Mechanical Integrity Engineer – Gas Turbine Structures

Shape the future of aerospace and defense technology by helping develop the test systems that ensure mission-critical products perform when it matters most. At Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, we partner with industry leaders to solve complex engineering challenges, bringing together innovative thinking and technical expertise to deliver solutions that make a real-world impact.

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking a Mechanical Engineer, Integrity/Structures, to support structural analysis and substantiation work for gas turbine engine components. This role is ideal for an engineer with a strong foundation in mechanical or aerospace engineering who enjoys solving complex structural problems through finite element analysis, hand calculations, fatigue/fracture mechanics, and technical documentation.

In this role, you will work closely with internal engineering teams, customer stakeholders, and cross-functional technical groups to evaluate designs, support program reviews, and provide analysis-backed recommendations. You will use CAE tools such as ANSYS, Siemens Simcenter, Nastran/Patran, or ABAQUS to perform structural and mechanical integrity analyses, document findings, and help ensure components meet customer, program, and durability requirements.

Due to the nature of this work, all candidates must be U.S. Citizens.

This role is preferred hybrid in Cincinnati, OH, but remote candidates will be considered.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Perform structural and mechanical integrity analysis for gas turbine engine components and systems.
• Use finite element analysis (FEA) and hand calculations to support design decisions, technical substantiation, and customer requirements.
• Evaluate component durability, strength, low-cycle fatigue, fatigue life, and fracture mechanics considerations.
• Build, modify, and analyze models using CAE tools such as ANSYS Classic, ANSYS Workbench, Siemens Simcenter, Nastran/Patran, and ABAQUS.
• Support geometry and mesh preparation for analysis activities, including working with Siemens Simcenter and Siemens NX when needed.
• Review analysis results, identify risks or areas of concern, and provide clear technical recommendations.
• Participate in technical reviews, program reviews, and customer discussions to communicate analysis findings and support engineering decisions.
• Collaborate with internal engineering teams, customer stakeholders, and cross-functional groups to solve complex structural/mechanical challenges.
• Document analysis plans, assumptions, methods, results, and conclusions in accordance with customer and program requirements.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations that clearly communicate findings, substantiation, and next steps.
• Manage multiple tasks and deadlines while supporting changing program priorities.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline from an accredited university.
• 2+ years of experience in gas turbine structural analysis, mechanical integrity, durability, or related aerospace structures work.
• Strong understanding of low-cycle fatigue, fatigue life, fracture mechanics, strength, and durability principles.
• Experience using finite element analysis and/or hand calculations to support structural or mechanical design decisions.
• Working knowledge of CAE tools such as ANSYS Classic, ANSYS Workbench, Siemens Simcenter, Nastran/Patran, ABAQUS, or similar analysis tools.
• Ability to document analysis plans, assumptions, methods, results, and conclusions in a clear and organized manner.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain technical findings to engineering teams, managers, and customer stakeholders.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional engineering environment.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen due to the nature of the work.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting gas turbine engine components, aerospace propulsion systems, or rotating machinery.
• Hands-on experience with geometry cleanup, mesh preparation, model setup, analysis, and post-processing.
• Proficiency with Siemens Simcenter, Siemens NX, ANSYS Classic, ANSYS Workbench, Nastran/Patran, ABAQUS, HEEDS, or similar tools.
• Experience evaluating strength, fatigue, durability, low-cycle fatigue, crack growth, or fracture mechanics of metallic components.
• Familiarity with aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, part standards, and design practices.
• Ability to translate analysis results into clear technical recommendations, reports, and customer-ready presentations.
• Experience participating in technical reviews, design reviews, program reviews, or customer-facing engineering discussions.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to support multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively in a remote or hybrid team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate across engineering disciplines, including design, analysis, manufacturing, program, and customer teams.

The QDSS Advantage:

At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You’ll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future.

What You’ll Find Here

• Work That Matters – Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact.
• Growth That’s Supported – Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement.
• A Culture That Works – A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued.

Benefits Include

• Competitive pay, comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, professional development support, and a flexible, friendly workplace.