Aircraft Certification Lead

Description

• Coordinate and assist in the development and execution of FAA and foreign certification plans for aircraft modifications, ensuring timely regulatory approvals.
• Identify and implement best practices and standard procedures for achieving civil aircraft certification and foreign validation.
• Act as the assistant certification liaison, working closely with the FAA and foreign civil aviation authorities to coordinate regulatory reviews and approvals.
• Assist the VP of Aviation Operations as a Certification Subject Matter Expert (SME) within the Certifications department, ensuring regulatory compliance throughout the project lifecycle.
• Work with engineering teams to define certification requirements, ensuring they are integrated into System Requirement Specifications and program planning.
• Oversee and coordinate regulatory reviews, including certification plan approvals, design evaluations, and compliance demonstrations.
• Assist in creating the Compliance Checklist, including the Certification Plan, and coordination of applicant documentation with the regulatory bodies. (FAA, CAA)
• Monitor certification project timelines, ensuring engineering and compliance activities stay on schedule to avoid delays.
• Collaborate with systems engineering and maintenance teams to establish a Requirements Database and track compliance artifacts.
• Work with VP of Aviation Operations and foreign certification authorities to prioritize and manage regulatory review processes efficiently.
• Participate in bidding and proposal processes, identifying the scope of required airworthiness reviews and estimating certification effort requirements.

Requirements

• Education in Aviation, Engineering, Regulatory Affairs, or related field (or equivalent work experience) 
• Experience with FAA Certification process, STC approvals, and regulatory compliance a plus
• General knowledge of aircraft and FAA regulations
• Knowledge in the use of systems such as, AutoCADD, Microsoft programs such as Word, Excel, Planner, Smart Sheets. 
• Strong organizational and document management skills. 
• Excellent communication and coordination abilities for interfacing with regulatory bodies. 
• Proficiency in certification management software and database systems. 
• Ability to interpret and apply regulatory requirements accurately. 
• Detail-Oriented mindset with strong problem-solving skills.