Head of Airworthiness

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.