Lead, Flight Test Mechanical Designer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 15, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 14, 2026. Westerkirk scores B on the Alion truth index.
Lead, Flight Test Mechanical Designer
Job Summary
We are seeking a Lead, Flight Test Mechanical Designer to join our Flight Test and Instrumentation team. In this role, you will lead the mechanical design and development of Flight Test Vehicle (FTV) instrumentation and experimental systems supporting aircraft development programs.
You will support aircraft programs across new model variants, existing aircraft types, product improvements, and continued airworthiness initiatives. The successful candidate will work closely with engineering, flight test, instrumentation, suppliers, and integrated product teams to develop safe, effective, and practical mechanical solutions for flight test applications.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the mechanical design and development of Flight Test Vehicle instrumentation and experimental systems.
Produce and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, technical specifications, and procedures.
Develop, install, and validate mechanical designs and installations using CATIA V5.
Perform preliminary structural analysis of mechanical installations and assess designs for suitability in flight test applications.
Interpret technical specifications and engineering requirements to develop appropriate test installations and instrumentation solutions.
Coordinate with suppliers, internal and external integrated product teams, engineering groups, and management to support flight test activities.
Provide engineering support for flight test and instrumentation modification activities.
Support aircraft checkout, ground testing, and flight operations.
Ensure mechanical designs and installations meet applicable engineering, safety, and flight test requirements.
Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues associated with flight test mechanical installations and instrumentation.
Support the development, testing, modification, and implementation of experimental aircraft systems and equipment.
Apply sound engineering judgment to identify and address technical risks associated with flight test installations.
Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to meet program schedules and technical requirements.
Qualifications
Education
University degree in Engineering, preferably Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering; or
College diploma in Engineering Technology or a related discipline.
Experience
10+ years of experience in a flight test environment preferred.
Previous experience in flight test design and instrumentation.
Experience designing, developing, and installing mechanical flight test equipment and instrumentation.
Experience working with aircraft structures and systems.
Experience with calibration methods and test/evaluation equipment for mechanical measurement and electronic sensing applications.
Technical Skills
Strong proficiency in CATIA V5 and 3D mechanical design.
Understanding of aircraft structures and aircraft systems operation.
Knowledge of commonly used aerospace materials and standard hardware.
Knowledge of flight test design and instrumentation principles.
Knowledge of mechanical and electronic test measurement and sensing equipment.
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and test requirements.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Success Factors
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
Strong practical and technical judgment.
Excellent mechanical design and problem-solving skills.
Strong understanding of aircraft structures and systems.
Demonstrated ability to develop practical mechanical solutions for flight test applications.
Strong CATIA V5 skills and experience with 3D mechanical design.
Ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary engineering and flight test teams.
Strong communication and coordination skills when working with suppliers, internal teams, and management.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a dynamic flight test environment.
A strong commitment to safety, quality, and engineering rigor.
Working Environment
This position supports aircraft flight test and engineering development activities and may involve working with aircraft, flight test instrumentation, and experimental equipment. The role may require coordination with internal and external teams and support for aircraft checkout and flight operations.