Our client, an established organisation within the aerospace sector, is seeking a Head of Airworthiness to oversee airworthiness matters across its Design Organisation. Based in Manchester with hybrid working available, this permanent role will report to the Engineering Director and play a key part in maintaining regulatory compliance, certification standards and continued airworthiness.
Key Responsibilities:
- Take responsibility for all airworthiness matters associated with the Design Organisation's design activities
- Coordinate airworthiness activities and liaise directly with the CAA on regulatory interpretation and technical decisions
- Maintain the Design Organisation Handbook and ensure procedures remain accurate, current and compliant
- Ensure all design activities are conducted within the terms of approval and in accordance with the Design Organisation Handbook
- Oversee the classification and supporting justification for type-certificate changes and repairs
- Act as a technical checker, approver or Compliance Verification Engineer when required
- Sign declarations of compliance and ensure design products can be monitored for continued airworthiness
- Prepare regular reports for the CAA and deputise for the Head of Design on airworthiness matters when required
- Support the Safety Manager with responsibilities relating to the Safety Management System
Job Requirements:
- Form Four eligibility and the relevant knowledge and experience to support submission to the CAA
- Significant design and certification experience within the aerospace or aircraft industry
- Thorough knowledge of relevant Part 21 requirements, certification specifications and company procedures
- Strong understanding of Design Organisation Handbook processes, including classification, compliance demonstration, certification and continued airworthiness
- Working knowledge of aircraft and aircraft systems design, manufacturing techniques, standard parts, technical publications and quality systems
- Ability to make reliable technical judgements affecting airworthiness and resolve complex project queries
- Strong management, technical report writing, presentation and stakeholder communication skills
- Confidence representing the organisation in meetings with the CAA, customers, suppliers and certification bodies
- Degree or HND-level qualification in an appropriate engineering discipline
- Computer literacy, including experience with CAD systems, Microsoft Office applications and internet-based tools
Key Attributes:
- Professional, collaborative and respectful approach
- Proactive attitude towards complex technical and regulatory challenges
- Resilience when working to demanding project deadlines
- Effective written, verbal and presentation skills
- Ability to bring teams together and work towards shared objectives
- Willingness to travel nationally and internationally when required
Role Details:
- Permanent position
- Hybrid working between the Manchester design office and home
- Standard working hours of Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 16:30, with flexibility subject to agreement
- Reporting to the Engineering Director
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced aerospace airworthiness professional to provide technical leadership, support regulatory compliance and contribute to the continued development of a high-quality Design Organisation. Apply now to be considered for the Head of Airworthiness position.
