Aircraft Certification Engineer – Subject Matter Expert (SME)

About the role

AVTECH Global seeks an experienced Aircraft Certification Engineer to act as the technical authority for the airworthiness certification of a military commercial derivative aircraft (MCDA). The role bridges FAA Title 14 CFR requirements with MIL-HDBK-516C military standards and involves close collaboration with government and prime contractor stakeholders.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute certification basis documents, issue papers, and certification plans for MCDA programs.
• Interface with military airworthiness authorities and DER/DAR representatives to coordinate approval activities.
• Identify and resolve certification gaps between civil and military requirements.
• Support compliance substantiation across structural, avionics, propulsion, interiors, and systems domains, reviewing test plans and reports.
• Mentor junior engineers and help evolve internal certification processes, tools, and best practices.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical engineering, or a related discipline.
• 15+ years of aircraft certification experience, including FAA type or supplemental type certification programs.
• Prior work on military commercial derivative aircraft programs preferred.
• Ability to pass a Tier 1 DoD investigation; existing security clearance is a plus.
• FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) authorization in one or more disciplines.

Required skills

• Thorough knowledge of Title 14 CFR (especially Part 25) and STC processes.
• Experience with MIL‑HDBK‑516C military airworthiness standards.
• Proficiency in creating certification documents such as ICAs, ground/flight test plans, compliance checklists, and project‑specific certification plans.
• Program management and effective communication skills for coordinating certification activities.

What we offer

• Remote work with monthly travel to Dayton, OH (travel costs covered).
• Medical insurance premium coverage up to 50% for a base plan.
• 401(k) plan with employer matching.