Himalayas logo

5 A&P Engineer Job Description Templates and Examples

A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) Engineers are responsible for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting aircraft to ensure they meet safety and regulatory standards. They work on airframes, engines, and related systems, diagnosing issues and performing necessary repairs. Junior A&P Engineers typically assist with maintenance tasks, while senior and lead engineers oversee complex repairs, mentor junior staff, and ensure compliance with aviation regulations.

Post your remote job on Himalayas

Reach 100k+ motivated remote job seekers and find the perfect candidate for your team.

1. Junior A&P Engineer Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are hiring a Junior A&P (Airframe & Powerplant) Engineer to join the maintenance engineering team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this entry-level engineering role you will apply foundational aeronautical engineering principles and FAA-regulated maintenance processes to support airframe structures, propulsion systems, and flight-critical subsystems. You will work under senior engineers and maintenance planners to translate engineering dispositions into approved maintenance tasks, contribute to corrective and preventive action workflows, and help ensure continued airworthiness across our fleet.

Responsibilities

  • Support development and revision of maintenance task cards, work packages, and structural repair instructions per FAA Advisory Circulars and company maintenance manuals
  • Assist in troubleshooting in-service defects on airframe and propulsion systems using schematics, wiring diagrams, and borescope/NDI reports
  • Execute engineering orders and non-routine repair dispositions under supervision; prepare technical records and engineering justifications for sign-off
  • Perform basic stress/strain assessments and load path reviews for minor structural repairs using simplified hand calculations and reference design data
  • Collaborate with senior A&P engineers and maintenance control to estimate labor, materials, and downtime for scheduled and unscheduled maintenance
  • Support certification activities including 337 forms, logbook entries, and obtaining release-to-service documentation
  • Participate in root cause analyses (RCA), corrective action reports (CAR), and reliability data collection to drive continuous improvement
  • Maintain configuration control of maintenance data, engineering drawings, and applicable regulatory documents in the engineering document management system
  • Shadow flight line and shop technicians to validate practicality of engineering instructions and close feedback loops between engineering and maintenance operations

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Active FAA A&P mechanic certificate or equivalent national/regulatory certification in progress
  • Associate degree or diploma in Aviation Maintenance Technology, Aeronautical Engineering Technology, or related field; or equivalent military aviation maintenance experience
  • 1+ years hands-on experience in aircraft maintenance, inspections, or repair-capable environment
  • Working knowledge of FAA regulations (14 CFR Part 43, Part 145, Part 91/121/135 as applicable) and familiarity with Airworthiness Directives (ADs) and Service Bulletins (SBs)
  • Basic competency with technical drawings, blueprints, wiring diagrams, and maintenance manuals
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel for data tracking) and willingness to learn maintenance/engineering software tools

Preferred:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering or equivalent technical discipline
  • Experience with non-destructive inspection (NDI) techniques such as eddy current, ultrasonic, dye penetrant, or visual inspection protocols
  • Familiarity with certification paperwork (Form 337), engineering orders, and approved data sourcing
  • Exposure to structural analysis tools (Empennage/wing load concepts) or basic FEM experience
  • Experience using maintenance planning systems (CMMS), electronic tech logs, or engineering document management systems (EDMS)

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • FAA A&P regulations and airworthiness standards
  • Aircraft structures, composites repair methods, and metallic repair techniques
  • Basic propulsion knowledge: engine removal/installation procedures, borescope inspection interpretation
  • Electrical systems fundamentals and avionics interface awareness
  • Non-destructive inspection (NDI) methods and acceptance criteria
  • Technical drawing literacy, wiring diagrams, and schematics interpretation
  • Proficiency or willingness to learn maintenance software: CMMS, AMOS, TRAX, CAMP or equivalent
  • Familiarity with CAD viewers and basic drafting (e.g., AutoCAD, CATIA viewer) is a plus

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong attention to detail with a disciplined approach to documentation and regulatory compliance
  • Ability to communicate technical findings clearly in written engineering reports and verbal briefings to cross-functional teams
  • Demonstrated aptitude for receiving mentorship and iterating on technical work with senior engineers
  • Collaborative mindset: experience working directly with maintenance technicians, quality assurance, and flight operations
  • Comfort operating in a safety-first culture and escalating safety or compliance concerns without delay
  • Willingness to work variable shifts, participate in on-call rotations, and support weekend or AOG (aircraft on ground) efforts when required

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]. Total compensation includes base pay, overtime/shift differentials where applicable, and eligibility for performance-based bonuses. Additional benefits include:

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans with employer contribution
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match and financial planning resources
  • Paid time off, sick leave, and paid parental leave
  • Tuition assistance, FAA exam fee reimbursement, and professional development stipend
  • Certification renewal support and access to in-house training and mentorship programs
  • Employee assistance program and on-site occupational health where available

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply. Candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please let us know.

Location

This is an on-site position based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. Candidates must be able to work at our maintenance facilities and participate in hands-on inspections and shop activities.

Application Instructions

We encourage applicants who meet some but not all of the above qualifications to apply. Please submit a resume and a brief cover letter highlighting relevant maintenance experience, certifications in progress, and examples of hands-on troubleshooting or repair work. Applicants with military maintenance experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

2. A&P Engineer Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

[$COMPANY_NAME] is seeking an experienced A&P Engineer to join our engineering and maintenance organization in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. The A&P Engineer will apply Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification knowledge, engineering principles, and regulatory compliance expertise to support aircraft maintenance, modifications, repairs, and continuing airworthiness. This position combines hands-on maintenance engineering with technical authority responsibilities: authoring repair procedures, approving maintenance data, driving root-cause analysis of in-service failures, and interfacing with regulatory authorities to ensure fleet airworthiness and safety.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as the primary engineering contact for A&P maintenance operations, providing technical direction for scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, component repairs, and structural modifications.
  • Develop, review, and approve maintenance instructions, structural repair manuals (SRMs), illustrated parts catalogs (IPC) cross-references, engineering orders (EOs), and maintenance data packages in compliance with FAA/EASA regulations.
  • Perform root-cause analysis (RCA) and failure mode investigations using FMEA-like techniques; define corrective actions, Service Bulletins (SBs), Airworthiness Directives (AD) disposition, and write Engineering Orders to close findings.
  • Create and validate repair schemes for airframe, empennage, landing gear, engines/auxiliary power units (APU), and nacelle systems; specify materials, fasteners, adhesives, and non-destructive inspection (NDI/NDT) requirements.
  • Support certification and return-to-service activities, including technical records review, maintenance release verification, and release-to-service documentation per FAR Part 43/145/121/135 as applicable.
  • Lead modification and retrofit projects: coordinate with design engineering, procurement, avionics/integration teams, and production to deliver installations meeting structural loads, EMI/EMC, wiring, and system integration requirements.
  • Maintain and enforce configuration control and continuing airworthiness: track life-limited parts, compliance planning for ADs/SBs, and airworthiness records management.
  • Operate and optimize MRO/M&E systems (e.g., AMOS, TRAX, Ramco), and ensure accurate logging of technical records, workscopes, and deviations.
  • Collaborate with suppliers, DERs (Designated Engineering Representatives), and regulatory inspectors; prepare technical packages for approvals and audits.
  • Mentor licensed A&P mechanics and technicians; lead toolbox talks, technical training sessions, and competence assessments.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives for maintenance processes, tooling, and turnaround time (TAT) reduction using Lean/Six Sigma principles.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Valid FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certificate or equivalent national license.
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent technical qualification, or equivalent work experience.
  • 5+ years of direct aircraft maintenance/engineering experience in line or base maintenance, MRO, or operator environment.
  • Proven knowledge of FAA and/or EASA airworthiness regulations (FARs/CS), AD/SB processes, and technical records management.
  • Experience authoring and validating maintenance data: engineering orders, repair procedures, method statements, and weight & balance documentation.
  • Practical experience with NDT methods (ultrasound, eddy current, dye penetrant), composite repairs, and metallic structural repairs.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills with demonstrated success resolving complex in-service failures.
  • Proficient with MRO/maintenance IT systems (e.g., AMOS, TRAX, Ramco) and MS Office; ability to generate clear technical reports.

Preferred:

  • Previous experience with Part 145 MRO, Part 121/135 operations, or CAMO programs.
  • Experience coordinating with Designated Engineering Representatives (DERs) and managing supplemental type certificates (STCs) or major modifications.
  • Knowledge of avionics interfaces, wiring harnesses, and EMI/EMC mitigation practices.
  • Familiarity with CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and structural analysis basics (hand calculations, FEM exposure).
  • Certifications in Lean, Six Sigma, or quality management (AS9100, ISO).

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification and regulatory compliance (FAR/EASA frameworks).
  • Maintenance data authoring: SRM, IPC, AMM, CMM, MEL/CDL understanding.
  • MRO and maintenance management software: AMOS, TRAX, Ramco, Oracle MRO or equivalents.
  • NDT/NDT equipment and procedures: ultrasonic testing, eddy current, magnetic particle, dye penetrant.
  • Composite and metallic repair techniques, adhesive bonding, and fastener selection.
  • Structural load paths, damage tolerance principles, fatigue inspection planning, and life-limited parts tracking.
  • Familiarity with avionics protocols, harness installation best practices, and basic electrical troubleshooting.
  • Technical documentation tools and configuration control systems (PLM, ECM, DOORS exposure beneficial).

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Clear technical communicator: produce concise engineering reports, maintenance directives, and production briefs suitable for engineers, technicians, and regulators.
  • Demonstrated leadership in shop-floor environments: lead workscopes, drive decisions during turnaround events, and coordinate cross-functional stakeholders.
  • Strong attention to detail and process discipline to ensure regulatory compliance and airworthiness.
  • Problem-solving orientation: use data-driven RCA and countermeasure validation to eliminate repeat defects.
  • Collaborative mindset: engage with procurement, quality, flight ops, and suppliers to deliver integrated outcomes.
  • Adaptability to changing operational priorities and ability to perform under time-constrained return-to-service scenarios.

Benefits and Perks

  • Competitive salary: [$SALARY_RANGE]
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
  • Retirement plan with employer match and financial wellness programs.
  • Paid time off, paid parental leave, and paid training/certification support.
  • Professional development allowance and support for FAA/EASA recurrent training.
  • Employee assistance programs, wellness stipends, and on-site or partner facility access for medical/fitness where applicable.
  • Opportunities for career progression into senior engineering, DER liaison, or maintenance leadership roles.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity of background, thought, and experience and provide equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applicants from underrepresented groups to apply.

Location

This position is site-based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. Candidates must be able to work on-airport and in-hangar environments, including shift work, overnight turnarounds, and travel between maintenance bases as required.

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter describing relevant A&P maintenance engineering experience and certifications. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt.

3. Senior A&P Engineer Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

[$COMPANY_NAME] is seeking a Senior A&P Engineer to lead airframe and powerplant engineering, certification, and maintenance engineering activities supporting commercial and/or defense aircraft fleets. In this senior engineering role you will architect maintenance solutions, approve structural repairs, author certification artifacts, and drive continuous airworthiness across OEM and aftermarket programs. You will apply deep FAA/EASA regulatory knowledge, advanced structural and systems engineering practices, and hands-on maintenance experience to ensure safe, compliant, and cost-effective fleet operations.

Responsibilities

  • Lead technical disposition of maintenance findings: author and approve Repair Design Data (RDD), Structural Repair Manuals (SRM) dispositions, and engineering orders to resolve in-service discrepancies.
  • Develop and approve Supplemental Type Certificates (STC), Repair Design Approvals, and other certification packages; coordinate with FAA/EASA/TC and company DERs/AMEs.
  • Design, validate, and document structural repairs and modifications for metallic and composite structures using finite element analysis (FEA) and hand-calculations in accordance with airworthiness criteria.
  • Own Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) engineering activities: maintenance planning, task cards, tooling/specification definitions, and Work Package generation compatible with ATA 100/ iSpec 2200 conventions.
  • Integrate avionics and systems modifications with airframe modifications: create Interface Control Documents (ICDs), wiring diagrams, and test procedures; supervise bench and ground testing.
  • Drive continued airworthiness programs: reliability feedback loops, configuration control, Service Bulletins (SB) evaluation, Airworthiness Directives (AD) compliance plans, and life-limited component tracking.
  • Establish and enforce quality and safety systems: Aviation Safety Management System (SMS), Safety Risk Management (SRM) assessments, and corrective/preventive action tracking.
  • Mentor and lead cross-functional teams including A&P mechanics, avionics technicians, structural technicians, and junior engineers; conduct technical training and lead complex troubleshooting reviews.
  • Partner with supply chain and manufacturing to qualify suppliers, approve material specifications, and define non-conformance dispositions for components, fasteners, and composite materials.
  • Provide on-site technical leadership during heavy maintenance checks, modifications, ferry flights, and international field deployments; represent [$COMPANY_NAME] in customer and regulatory meetings.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification (or equivalent civil aviation authority certificate) with 8+ years of hands-on maintenance and engineering experience.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Structural Engineering, or equivalent technical experience and demonstrable engineering output.
  • Proven experience authoring and approving structural repair data, engineering orders, and maintenance data packages in accordance with FAA/EASA requirements.
  • Strong knowledge of airworthiness regulations: 14 CFR (FAR) Parts 21/43/121/145 and/or EASA CS/AMC/GM where applicable.
  • Practical experience with inspection techniques (NDT: eddy current, ultrasound, radiography), corrosion control, and fatigue/damage tolerance assessments.
  • Hands-on familiarity with aircraft systems (hydraulics, pneumatics, landing gear, flight controls, environmental systems) and avionics integration considerations.
  • Demonstrated leadership in MRO environments, including maintenance planning, shop floor coordination, and failure modes root-cause analysis.

Preferred:

  • Designated Engineering Representative (DER) experience or prior work with DERs/DOAs.
  • Experience with composite repair design and certification, including bonded repairs, scarf joints, and composite fastener systems.
  • Proficiency with FEA tools (e.g., Nastran, Abaqus), CAD (NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks), and maintenance-authoring systems (Arbus, AMOS, RAMCO).
  • Prior experience supporting FAA/EASA certification projects, STCs, PMA/TC supplement processes, or major modifications.
  • Working knowledge of ATA chapters, iSpec 2200, S1000D, and digital technical publication workflows.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Airworthiness & Certification: FAA/EASA regulatory frameworks, AD/SB analysis, continuing airworthiness management.
  • Structural Analysis: FEA, stress/fatigue analysis, repair design and substantiation methodologies.
  • Maintenance Systems: AMOS, Ramco, TRAX, or equivalent MRO/maintenance planning platforms; CMMS integration.
  • Documentation & Tools: CATIA/NX/SolidWorks for drawings, MS Office Suite for technical reports, Adobe FrameMaker/S1000D for maintenance publications.
  • Testing & Inspection: NDT methods, ground/flight test procedures, test instrumentation, and data acquisition tools.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Proven leader with a track record of influencing cross-functional stakeholders and driving technical decisions through ADRs and formal engineering reviews.
  • Excellent technical communication: clear engineering reports, certification submissions, and briefings to regulators and customers.
  • High attention to detail with disciplined configuration management and documentation practices.
  • Ability to operate effectively in time-constrained, safety-critical environments and make decisive risk-based judgments.
  • Mentorship mindset: experience coaching technicians and junior engineers, building technical capability and succession plans.
  • Collaborative, customer-focused orientation with a commitment to operational reliability and continuous improvement.

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance; disability and life coverage.
  • Retirement plan with employer match; employee equity/bonus programs where applicable.
  • Paid time off, parental leave, and paid professional development budget for certifications and recurrent training.
  • Support for FAA recurrent training, type ratings, and safety training; reimbursement for certain licensing fees.
  • Opportunities for international travel and field deployments; exposure to fleet-level engineering and certification projects.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We value diverse perspectives and encourage applicants from underrepresented groups to apply.

Location

This role is onsite at [$COMPANY_LOCATION] with regular travel to hangars, maintenance bases, and occasional international deployments as required. Candidates must be able to pass relevant background checks and comply with site access and safety requirements.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your A&P certification, relevant engineering projects, and availability. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

4. Lead A&P Engineer Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

[$COMPANY_NAME] is hiring a Lead A&P (Airframe & Powerplant) Engineer to own engineering, airworthiness, and maintenance strategy for our aircraft fleet and product line. In this leadership role you will translate regulatory requirements into compliant engineering solutions, lead multidisciplinary teams to resolve complex in-service issues, and drive continuous improvements in maintainability and reliability. You will interface directly with certification authorities, production, operations, and suppliers to deliver safe, cost-effective, and auditable engineering outcomes.

Responsibilities

  • Lead end-to-end airworthiness and maintenance engineering for assigned aircraft, components, and modifications, including structural, propulsion, systems, and avionics interfaces.
  • Develop and maintain Certification Plans, Type Inspection Authorizations (TIA), Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA), and Airworthiness Directives (AD) compliance strategies in accordance with FAA/EASA/other applicable regulations.
  • Define maintenance tasking, scheduled inspections, repair procedures, and overhaul criteria (MRB/MSG-3 where applicable); author and review Maintenance Repair Manuals (MRM), Illustrated Parts Catalogs (IPC), and Service Bulletins (SB).
  • Architect and validate modification kits and Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) by producing DER/DOA-ready engineering packages, structural analyses, load calculations, and test plans.
  • Lead root-cause analysis for in-service failures using FMEA, FRACAS, and reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) methodologies; implement corrective actions and monitor effectiveness.
  • Provide technical leadership during inspections, non-destructive testing campaigns, structural repairs, engine removals/installs, and flight test activities; ensure work scopes are technically complete and meet regulatory acceptance criteria.
  • Oversee supplier and MRO technical relationships: establish technical agreements, define part acceptance criteria, and perform supplier audits focused on airworthiness and configuration control.
  • Drive configuration management and engineering change processes (ECOs/ECNs); ensure traceability of parts, borescope/inspection records, and life-limited item tracking.
  • Mentor and grow a high-performing team of A&P engineers and technicians; lead technical design reviews, architecture decision records (ADRs), and post-implementation reviews.
  • Represent [$COMPANY_NAME] with certification authorities and industry working groups; present technical rationale, test evidence, and compliance matrices at certification and continued-airworthiness meetings.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • FAA A&P certificate or equivalent regulatory qualification and 8+ years of hands-on aircraft maintenance and engineering experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering discipline, or equivalent engineering experience.
  • Proven experience developing compliance artifacts (ICA, SBs, STCs) and working directly with FAA/EASA certification processes.
  • Deep understanding of structural mechanics, fatigue & damage tolerance, systems integration, and propulsion maintenance practices.
  • Demonstrated leadership managing cross-functional engineering teams and delivering projects on schedule under regulatory oversight.
  • Excellent technical writing skills for authoring regulatory submissions, work packages, repair procedures, and maintenance manuals.
  • Strong proficiency with engineering analysis tools and data-driven decision making; comfortable reviewing tests, lab reports, and flight test data.

Preferred:

  • Designated Engineering Representative (DER) experience or proven history working with DERs/DOAs.
  • Experience with MRB/MSG-3, RCM, FMEA, FRACAS processes in commercial or special-mission aircraft.
  • Master's degree in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering or equivalent technical masterclass coursework.
  • Familiarity with civil certification standards (14 CFR, CS-23/25/27/29) and EASA Part-21 and Part-M requirements.
  • Experience working with composite structures, damage tolerance analysis (DT), and repair qualification programs.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Structural analysis: hands-on with NASTRAN, Abaqus, or equivalent FEM tools for static, modal, and fatigue analysis.
  • CAD and documentation: advanced proficiency in CATIA V5/V6, Siemens NX, SolidWorks, and Product Data Management (PDM/PLM) systems.
  • Data analysis and scripting: Python/NumPy/Pandas, MATLAB/Simulink for test-data reduction and signal processing.
  • Maintenance & reliability tools: experience with CMMS/EAM systems (e.g., AMOS, TRAX, Maximo) and reliability tools for life-limited item tracking.
  • Test & instrumentation: familiarity with strain gage instrumentation, static/ fatigue test setups, telemetry, flight-test instrumentation, and non-destructive inspection (NDI) methods—ultrasonic, eddy current, radiography.
  • Regulatory documentation: producing compliance matrices, certification test plans, and Configuration Management Database (CMDB) entries.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Proven track record of leading architecture decision records (ADRs), conducting rigorous design and safety reviews, and mentoring junior engineers on system design and airworthiness principles.
  • Strong stakeholder management: able to translate technical tradeoffs to program managers, operations, and regulators with clarity and pragmatism.
  • Analytical communicator: concise technical writing for audits and presentations; confident presenting complex evidence to regulators and executives.
  • Process-oriented with high attention to detail and a bias for measurable outcomes—KPIs may include MTBUR, in-service reliability, and audit pass rates.
  • Collaborative mindset: experience in cross-disciplinary teams (structures, propulsion, avionics, manufacturing) and a commitment to inclusive mentorship and diverse hiring.

Benefits and Perks

Salary and compensation: [$SALARY_RANGE]. Total rewards include competitive base salary, performance bonus, equity or long-term incentives (where applicable), comprehensive health coverage, retirement plan with company match, and paid time off.

  • Professional development stipend for certifications, courses, and attendance at industry conferences (e.g., AIAA, SAE, NBAA).
  • Paid FAA recurrent training and support for DER/Type Rating maintenance of qualifications.
  • Relocation assistance where applicable and flexible paid time off policies.
  • Mental health and wellness benefits, family leave, and employee resource groups to support inclusion.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences are encouraged to apply; if you do not meet every qualification but bring relevant skills and a strong learning mindset, we want to hear from you.

Location

This role is onsite at [$COMPANY_LOCATION] and requires presence for hands-on inspections, lab testing, flight-test support, and regulatory meetings. Occasional travel to supplier sites, regulatory offices, or test facilities will be required.

Application Instructions

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds. If you are excited about this role but your experience does not precisely match every listed requirement, please apply. Submit your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting relevant aircraft projects, certifications (A&P, DER, degrees), and examples of successful certification or repair programs you led.

5. Chief A&P Engineer Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

The Chief A&P Engineer reports to executive leadership and leads airworthiness, maintenance engineering, and regulatory compliance for [$COMPANY_NAME]. You will be the primary technical authority for airframe and powerplant engineering decisions, delegated engineering approvals, continued airworthiness programs, and the development of maintenance data and engineering orders. This role requires deep FAA/EASA regulatory knowledge, proven leadership of multi-discipline engineering teams, and the ability to translate certification and maintenance requirements into operational maintenance programs and technical publications.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as the accountable Chief A&P Engineer with delegated authority to approve repairs, alterations, and technical data in accordance with 14 CFR Part 43/145, FAR Part 21 where applicable, and applicable continuing airworthiness regulations
  • Lead engineering design and analysis for airframe and powerplant modifications, major repairs, and supplemental type certificate (STC) activities, including stress analysis, fatigue assessment, and systems integration
  • Oversee development, validation, and revision of maintenance data: Illustrated Parts Catalogs (IPC), Maintenance Manuals (MM), Structural Repair Manuals (SRM), Component Maintenance Manuals (CMM), and Wiring Diagrams
  • Define and implement continued airworthiness programs, reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) frameworks, and structural inspection intervals based on fleet data, damage tolerance analysis, and fatigue testing
  • Direct root-cause investigations and corrective action for in-service defects and occurrences; produce engineering orders, service bulletins, and mandatory inspection programs
  • Establish and maintain configuration control, engineering change processes (ECP/ECN), and technical records to ensure traceability for audit and certification
  • Manage relationships with civil aviation authorities (FAA, EASA, and applicable state authorities), external certification organizations, OEMs, and suppliers to drive timely approvals and maintain regulatory compliance
  • Lead, mentor, and grow multidisciplinary teams (structures, propulsion, avionics integration, materials & processes); define hiring, training, and competency standards for licensed A&P staff and engineering technicians
  • Collaborate with Maintenance, Flight Operations, Safety, Procurement, and Quality Assurance to align technical solutions with operational requirements, cost targets, and safety objectives
  • Drive digital transformation of engineering workflows: implement PLM/ALM practices, integrate CMMS with engineering data, and leverage predictive analytics for maintenance optimization
  • Define KPIs for fleet health, maintenance cost per flight-hour, dispatch reliability, and Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF); present metrics and strategic roadmaps to executive leadership and board-level stakeholders

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification (or recognized equivalent) in good standing
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Aeronautical Engineering or equivalent technical experience (MS preferred)
  • Minimum 12+ years of progressive experience in aircraft maintenance engineering, with at least 5 years in a senior engineering leadership or chief engineer role responsible for continued airworthiness
  • Proven experience authorizing major repairs/alterations, issuing engineering orders, and managing certification interfaces with FAA/EASA
  • Demonstrated expertise in structural analysis, damage tolerance/fatigue assessment, and propulsion system maintenance practices
  • Strong working knowledge of FARs, EASA CS, ACs, advisory circulars, military MRBR/MPD interpretation where applicable, and international regulatory frameworks
  • Experience with maintenance planning standards (MPD/ICA), Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM), MSG-3 methodology, and maintenance program development
  • Track record leading cross-functional teams and managing external engineering suppliers and OEM certification processes
  • Excellent technical writing skills for development of technical data packages, MEL/CDL inputs, SBs, and compliance reports

Preferred:

  • Chartered Engineer or PE with aerospace emphasis; master’s in structures or propulsion
  • Prior experience obtaining STCs, PMA approvals, or interacting with Transport Authorities outside the U.S.
  • Familiarity with digital engineering tools: finite element analysis (FEA) packages (NASTRAN/ANSYS), CAD (CATIA/Siemens NX), PLM systems (Windchill/Teamcenter), and CMMS (Ramco/Mx) integration
  • Experience with composite structures, bonded repairs, corrosion control programs, and non-destructive inspection (NDI) techniques
  • Background in airline, MRO, OEM engineering, or government/defense aviation platforms

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Structural analysis and fatigue/damage tolerance methodologies; hands-on use of FEA tools (NASTRAN, ANSYS)
  • Propulsion and engine maintenance practices; understanding of borescope inspection, hot-section inspection, and engine removal/installation procedures
  • Regulatory compliance and certification workflows (FAA DER processes, EASA procedures)
  • Maintenance data authoring: S1000D, ATA iSpec 2200/ iSpec 2450 formatting, and XML-based technical publications
  • Proficiency with CAD (CATIA, Siemens NX), PLM (Windchill, Teamcenter), and version-controlled repositories for technical data
  • Data analysis and diagnostic tools: CMMS, reliability tools, and telemetry analysis for condition-based maintenance (CBM)
  • Familiarity with materials & processes, NDT methods (eddy current, ultrasonic, radiography), and corrosion prevention treatments

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Executive-level communication: translate technical risk and certification status into clear business impact and recommendations for senior stakeholders
  • Proven leadership in high-safety, regulated environments; track record of building accountable, high-performance teams
  • Decisive judgement under operational pressure; demonstrated ability to make risk-based airworthiness decisions
  • Mentorship mindset: develop licensed technicians and junior engineers through structured training and knowledge transfer
  • Collaborative problem-solver: negotiate technical trade-offs with ops, procurement, and finance while maintaining safety and compliance
  • Continuous improvement orientation: use data-driven approaches to reduce maintenance cost per flight-hour and improve dispatch reliability

Benefits and Perks

  • Competitive executive compensation package: base salary, performance bonus, and long-term equity or retention incentives (salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE])
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance; executive disability and life coverage
  • Retirement plan with company match, executive financial planning resources, and tax-advantaged benefits where applicable
  • Paid time off policy, executive leave, and flexible scheduling to support work-life balance
  • Professional development stipend, licensing reimbursement, and support for continuing education and certifications
  • Relocation assistance and corporate housing consideration for qualified candidates

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Location

This is a location-based role at our principal engineering facility in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. Candidates should be able to work on-site full time and travel periodically to line stations, MRO partners, OEM sites, and regulatory authorities as required.

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your delegated engineering experience, major certification projects led, and examples of maintenance program improvements you authored. Applications that do not include both documents may not be considered.

Similar Job Description Samples

Simple pricing, powerful features

Upgrade to Himalayas Plus and turbocharge your job search.

Himalayas

Free
Himalayas profile
AI-powered job recommendations
Apply to jobs
Job application tracker
Job alerts
Weekly
AI resume builder
1 free resume
AI cover letters
1 free cover letter
AI interview practice
1 free mock interview
AI career coach
1 free coaching session
AI headshots
Not included
Conversational AI interview
Not included
Recommended

Himalayas Plus

$9 / month
Himalayas profile
AI-powered job recommendations
Apply to jobs
Job application tracker
Job alerts
Daily
AI resume builder
Unlimited
AI cover letters
Unlimited
AI interview practice
Unlimited
AI career coach
Unlimited
AI headshots
100 headshots/month
Conversational AI interview
30 minutes/month

Himalayas Max

$29 / month
Himalayas profile
AI-powered job recommendations
Apply to jobs
Job application tracker
Job alerts
Daily
AI resume builder
Unlimited
AI cover letters
Unlimited
AI interview practice
Unlimited
AI career coach
Unlimited
AI headshots
500 headshots/month
Conversational AI interview
4 hours/month

Find your dream job

Sign up now and join over 100,000 remote workers who receive personalized job alerts, curated job matches, and more for free!

Sign up
Himalayas profile for an example user named Frankie Sullivan