Manager, IPT - Propulsion & Mechanical Systems

Piper Aircraft; Vero Beach (FL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, FL is seeking an experienced propulsion and mechanical systems lead to guide design, integration, and certification for product development IPT. You will size and architect propulsion concepts, allocate requirements, and plan development with suppliers to support derivatives and clean-sheet programs.

Seven years in general aviation propulsion and mechanical systems, with hands-on IPT leadership and FAA certification experience, are highly desired.

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in engineering, preferably mechanical or aerospace.
• Seven years in small airplane propulsion and mechanical systems design, test and certification.
• Experience leading an IPT project in propulsion and mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple product development projects from inception to completion.
• Lead propulsion and mechanical system design activities, sizing, and ARCHITECTURE schematics.
• Develop system-level and airplane-level requirements and verification plans.
• Coordinate with FAA and other regulatory agencies for certification.
• Interface with suppliers, manufacturing, and QA to ensure design maturity.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to team members within IPT.

Skills

IPT leadership

Project management

Mechanical systems design

FAA certification knowledge

CAD/ NX

Teamcenter

Vendor liaison

Systems integration

Engineering analysis

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical or Aerospace

Tools

Siemens NX

Teamcenter

Job description

Manage all technical aspects of propulsion and mechanical systems design, integration, and certification compliance for the Product Development Integrated Product Team (IPT). Support and add vision to the company product roadmap and its development with key suppliers. Provide technical team direction to ensure that the propulsion and mechanical system concepts are sized and architected appropriately for all proposed new aircraft designs. Successfully plan, coordinate, and execute tasks to support the development and certification of all project initiatives ranging from product derivatives to clean-sheet design programs. Responsibilities for this position will include, but not be limited to the generation of system-level and airplane-level requirements, allocation of requirements, plus development, test and verification for the propulsion and mechanical systems.

Essential Job Functions

Manage multiple product development projects from inception to completion across a wide range of project scope and complexity

Keep abreast of technological advancements of general aviation engine and engine-related products and mechanical systems component and system automation capabilities

Lead, monitor and review all propulsion and mechanical system activities and drive deliverables such as component sizing, system architecture schematics, system safety analysis, system requirements definitions, drawings, test plans and reports, certification planning and compliance reports

Manage the development and provide oversite and leadership of the following aspects of propulsion and mechanical system design and certification in product development:

• Engineering layouts, Computer Aided Design (CAD) models, installation and system designs, Engineering Orders (EOs), work orders, specifications, and other design data
• Design definitions in accordance with the Company's Drafting Room Manual (DRM) standards & engineering design criteria
• Analytical problem-solving techniques in the reduction and interpretation of engineering data towards accomplishing the intended design criteria
• Engineering Work Orders (EWOs) for the purpose of modifying, installing, testing or certifying propulsion and mechanical systems equipment and installations
• Piper process specifications, purchasing specifications, or other required technical documentation
• Propulsion and mechanical systems component sizing, system performance analysis, and component-level qualification testing and approvals
• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) / Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) engineering data such as test plans, specifications, drawings, test results, substantiation reports, service bulletins, etc. in the FAA certification process
• Liaison with Experimental, Manufacturing, Methods, Tooling, and Purchasing departments to aid in the interpretation of engineering drawings and correct design deficiencies to ensure a smooth introduction of a new design into production. Includes developing dispositions for deviations on Non-Conformance (NC)
• Key-supplier, vendor, and purchasing department interface for appropriate selection and integration of vendor supplied components and other type-certified product
• Aircraft type certification reports showing compliance with the appropriate FAA and other regulatory agency requirements

Assist the Sr. Manager, Product Development IPT or Project Manager in the following tasks:

• Defining program requirements
• Define man-power requirements to support business needs
• Preparing material for presentation at design and program reviews

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Oversee hiring, monitor staffing and conduct performance evaluations for team members
• Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to team members to facilitate career development
• Advise IPT and company leadership on technical issues, perform deliverable quality reviews, report on project status, and deliver technical product to support project milestone schedules and within established budget
• Manage, lead, and guide team members in the interpretation of the FAA regulations pertaining to this technical discipline
• Define software and tools required for the team to perform their duties
• Define the appropriate methods and processes and ensure team member adherence to the prescribed standards

Other duties as assigned

Minimum Position Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering discipline, preferably Mechanical or Aerospace

Seven (7) years of experience in small airplane general aviation propulsion and mechanical systems design, test and certification, or equivalent combination of education and experience

Prior experience leading an IPT project in a propulsion and mechanical systems capacity: with successful completion of a new product development program from inception through type certification with hands‑on experience in delegating to, and managing the activities of, other team members within an IPT environment, and within the propulsion and mechanical systems discipline

Thorough understanding of the requirements, design, and workings of piston and turboprop engines

Thorough knowledge of and experience with FAA certification requirements (CAR 3, Part 23, etc.) as it pertains to this technical discipline

Thorough knowledge of Siemens NX CAD system and Teamcenter

Preferred Education and Experience

Minimum of three (3) years of experience leading, supervising, or managing engineering teams with demonstrated ability to drive performance, accountability, and team development.

ODA experience

Pilot experience and/or understanding of flight crew duties and responsibilities

Physical Demands

Demonstrates physical and functional ability to perform and accomplish tasks. Ability to lift and carry up to 35 lbs.

Mental Demands

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Software

Working Conditions

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those the employee encounters while performing the functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to both office and plant environments. May be exposed to odors, chemical agents, dust, fumes, gases, sharp objects, hazardous or moving equipment, wet slippery floors, and extremes in temperature and humidity.

Interacts regularly with various staff and employees, and occasionally with vendors, suppliers, community members and regulatory agency representatives.

Supports all operational excellence initiatives ensuring full participation in all department services, continuous improvement efforts, and training programs.

Quality Assurance

Maintains a safe, orderly working environment including FOD compliance.

Ensures adherence to Piper Aircraft, Inc. corporate compliance policies.

Adheres to organization and department policies and procedures.

Compliance

Responsible for ensuring compliance with laws, rules and regulations appropriate to job function

Comply with all organizational policies and standards regarding ethical business practices.

Work ethically and with integrity; upholds organizational values.

Maintains compliance with company safety policies and procedures, OSHA, and EPA regulations including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), behaviors, physical space and hazardous waste disposal procedures.

Communicates Effectively

Effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills who understands how to develop and maintain external supplier and internal customer relations in both written and oral form.

Maintain a high level of professionalism at all times during direct contact with employees, suppliers, and customers.

Decision Quality

Makes good and timely decisions that keep the organization moving on-time with deliverables.

Knows and contributes the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement.

Attention to Detail

Takes responsibility for a thorough, accurate, and detailed method of completing work tasks.

Drives Results

Overcomes adversity, consistently achieving quality results - even under demanding deadlines and unexpected operating circumstances.

Teamwork

Interacts, partners, and collaborates effectively with others, positively contributing to overall department and organizational deliverables and results.