Job Title: Certification Engineer

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Senior Aerospace Certification Engineer to lead and oversee the certification of aerospace systems, components, and products. In this role, you will be responsible for managing the certification process from initial design through final regulatory approval, ensuring that all products meet the highest safety, performance, and regulatory standards. You will work closely with regulatory bodies, engineering teams, and project managers to ensure compliance with industry regulations such as FAA, EASA, and ICAO. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in aerospace certification, strong leadership skills, and the ability to navigate complex certification processes effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead Certification Process:

   • Lead and manage the certification process for complex aerospace systems, including aircraft, avionics, propulsion systems, and other aerospace components.
   • Develop and implement certification strategies, ensuring compliance with FAA, EASA, and other regulatory authorities.
   • Coordinate the preparation, submission, and approval of certification packages, including certification plans, compliance reports, and test procedures.
   • Oversee all stages of certification, from initial design through testing, evaluation, and final approval.

2. Regulatory Compliance and Liaison:

   • Serve as the primary point of contact with regulatory authorities (e.g., FAA, EASA) to facilitate certification processes and ensure smooth communication.
   • Stay updated on evolving regulatory requirements and ensure all projects comply with applicable aviation regulations, standards, and codes.
   • Lead interactions with regulators, coordinating the submission of documentation and responding to any queries or feedback from regulatory bodies.
   • Provide expert advice on regulatory matters, ensuring engineering designs meet safety, performance, and environmental requirements.

3. Cross-Functional Team Leadership:

   • Collaborate with design engineers, systems engineers, and project managers to ensure that all product designs meet regulatory certification requirements throughout the development lifecycle.
   • Lead internal certification reviews to ensure that designs are ready for regulatory submission and approval.
   • Mentor and guide junior and mid-level engineers on certification processes, compliance requirements, and best practices.

4. Documentation and Reporting:

   • Oversee the preparation of detailed certification documentation, including test plans, test procedures, compliance matrices, and technical reports.
   • Ensure the accuracy and completeness of all certification documentation, maintaining organized and up-to-date records.
   • Present regular certification progress updates to senior management, clients, and other stakeholders, including risk assessments and mitigation strategies.

5. Testing and Validation:

   • Coordinate and oversee testing activities to verify the performance and compliance of aerospace systems with regulatory standards.
   • Ensure that all tests (e.g., environmental, structural, performance) are conducted in compliance with certification requirements.
   • Analyze test data and work with engineering teams to resolve any issues or discrepancies in the results.

6. Quality Assurance and Process Improvement:

   • Develop and implement quality assurance protocols for certification processes, ensuring continuous improvement in efficiency and compliance.
   • Recommend process improvements to streamline the certification process and reduce timelines without compromising quality or safety.
   • Conduct audits of certification processes and procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices.

7. Mentorship and Training:

• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior certification engineers, helping them develop their skills and knowledge in the certification process.
• Lead internal training sessions and workshops on certification standards, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration within the certification team.

Qualifications and Skills:

1. Educational Requirements:

   • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
   • 7+ years of experience in aerospace certification, regulatory compliance, or a related engineering field.

2. Technical Skills:

   • Extensive knowledge of aerospace systems, including aircraft structures, avionics, propulsion, and flight controls.
   • Deep understanding of regulatory standards, including FAA FARs, EASA CS, ICAO, and other industry regulations.
   • Proven experience in managing the certification process for complex aerospace systems and products.
   • Familiarity with certification-related software or tools for managing compliance documentation and tracking certification progress.
   • Strong analytical skills to evaluate test results, identify issues, and collaborate with engineering teams to resolve them.

3. Leadership and Soft Skills:

   • Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience leading cross-functional teams and guiding junior engineers.
   • Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to clearly explain complex certification processes to clients, regulators, and stakeholders.
   • Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines, ensuring that certification activities align with overall project schedules.
   • Exceptional problem-solving abilities and the capacity to make decisions in high-pressure situations.

4. Certifications (Preferred):

   • Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certification.
   • Certification in quality assurance, project management (e.g., PMP), or regulatory compliance is beneficial.
   • Advanced certifications in aerospace design, testing, or certification processes are a plus.