Mechanical Engineer
Senior Mechanical Engineer (Contract)
Position Summary:
We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to support the design and development of complex VIP aircraft interiors and aircraft structural components. This contract position will be responsible for creating innovative, FAA-compliant designs that meet customer requirements, quality standards, project budgets, and delivery schedules. Multiple openings are available.
Key Responsibilities:
Design complex aircraft interior furnishings and structural components, including:
- Ceilings
- SidewallsFlooring systems
- Floor structures
- Ceiling grids
- MonumentsOEM modifications
- Interpret and analyze subsystem and project specifications.
- Select appropriate materials based on structural, manufacturing, and performance requirements.
- Evaluate material trade-offs involving composites, metals, coatings, treatments, and hardness specifications.
- Collaborate with suppliers and testing organizations to validate material selections.
- Partner with Manufacturing Engineering teams to optimize designs for:
- Reduced part count
- Lower manufacturing costs
- Improved manufacturability
- Increased product quality
- Reduced assembly errors
- Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs), fabrication specifications, and assembly documentation.
- Ensure designs meet customer expectations, FAA regulations, and company quality standards.
- Support program cost and schedule objectives.
- Provide technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to engineering personnel.
- Support liaison engineering activities and troubleshooting efforts.
- Assist with test planning, test setup preparation, and test report development.
- Stay current on emerging design methodologies, materials, software tools, and industry best practices.
- Work cross-functionally with Design, Manufacturing, and Program teams to develop aesthetically pleasing and technically sound solutions.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline.
- Minimum 8 years of relevant engineering experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Prior aerospace or aviation experience required.
- Aircraft interior design experience strongly preferred.
- ITAR Requirement
- Candidates must qualify as a U.S. Person under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), including:
- U.S. Citizens
- Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders)
- Individuals granted political asylum or refugee status as defined by applicable regulations
- Technical Skills & Knowledge
- Design Software
- Advanced 3D CAD experience (Autodesk Inventor preferred)
- Strong 2D drafting experience (AutoCAD)
- Engineering Expertise
- Aircraft interior structures and furnishings
- Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA)
- Material selection and qualification
- Weight and balance analysis
- Mechanical motion modeling
- Engineering drawing creation and reviewANSI Y14.5 GD&T standards
- Manufacturing processes and fabrication methods
- Cost-conscious engineering design
- Additional Knowledge Areas
- Experience supporting or designing:
- Aircraft structures (upper and lower attached structures)
- Monuments and cabinetry
- Ceiling and sidewall systems
- Flooring systems
- Placards and interior componentsOEM modifications
- Avionics equipment installations and LRU integration
Core Competencies:
- Professional Competencies
- Strong engineering judgment and decision-making
- Excellent planning, organization, and prioritization skills
- Exceptional problem-solving abilities
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams
- Adaptability in a fast-paced engineering environment
- Commitment to quality and continuous improvement
Additional Requirements:
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines with minimal supervision.
Strong time management and organizational skills.
Ability to travel as required.
Ability to work outside normal business hours when needed.
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally and perform standard office/computer-based work.