Senior Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures)

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Retirement fund

Training opportunities

Paid time off

Career progression

Relocation assistance

Safety culture

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of our client, seeks a Senior Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures) to join a state‑of‑the‑art MRO in Welkom, Free State. You will lead structural repairs, interpret manuals, and ensure compliance with SA-CATS/EASA standards while mentoring technicians.

You will oversee diverse aircraft types, drive continuous improvement, and maintain airworthiness through rigorous inspections and documentation. The role offers competitive remuneration and relocation assistance.

Qualifications

• Trade qualification as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures).
• EASA Part-66 or SA-CATS license with structural ratings.
• 8+ years hands-on experience in aircraft structural maintenance.
• Knowledge of composites, aluminum alloys, and NDT methods.

Responsibilities

• Perform and oversee complex structural repairs and modifications on various aircraft types.
• Interpret and utilize technical manuals, blueprints, and engineering drawings to guide repair work.
• Ensure all structural maintenance tasks comply with company procedures and aviation regulations.
• Supervise and mentor a team of structural technicians, providing guidance and training.
• Maintain repair documentation for accuracy and completeness.

Skills

Leadership

Teamwork

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer license

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Aircraft Maintenance Engineer specializing in structures to join their state‑of‑the‑art facility in Welkom, Free State. This pivotal role involves overseeing and executing complex structural repairs and modifications on a diverse fleet of aircraft. You will be responsible for ensuring all structural maintenance activities meet the highest safety, quality, and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate possesses extensive knowledge of aircraft structural integrity, composite materials, and sheet metal fabrication, along with strong leadership skills. You will mentor junior engineers and technicians, contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, and uphold our client's reputation for excellence in aviation maintenance. This position is crucial for maintaining the airworthiness and operational readiness of aircraft, contributing directly to flight safety and customer satisfaction. We are looking for a meticulous and dedicated professional who is passionate about aviation engineering and committed to delivering outstanding results in a demanding environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform and oversee complex structural repairs and modifications on various aircraft types.
• Interpret and utilize technical manuals, blueprints, and engineering drawings to guide repair work.
• Ensure all structural maintenance tasks comply with company procedures, aviation regulations (e.g., SA-CATS), and manufacturer specifications.
• Conduct inspections and assessments of aircraft structures to identify damage, corrosion, or fatigue.
• Supervise and mentor a team of aircraft structural technicians, providing technical guidance and training.
• Manage repair documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness for all maintenance activities.
• Collaborate with engineering departments to develop repair schemes and solutions for non-routine structural issues.
• Maintain a safe and organized work environment, adhering to all health and safety protocols.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of maintenance processes and techniques.
• Participate in quality audits and assist in resolving any structural‑related findings.

Requirements

• Trade qualification as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures) or equivalent.
• A valid EASA Part-66 or SA-CATS equivalent license with relevant structural ratings.
• Minimum of 8 years of hands‑on experience in aircraft structural maintenance.
• In-depth knowledge of aircraft structural repair techniques, materials (composites, aluminum alloys), and NDT methods.
• Proven experience interpreting technical manuals, engineering drawings, and repair schemes.
• Strong understanding of aviation regulations and safety standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple tasks.
• Proficiency in using relevant tools and equipment for structural repairs.
• Willingness to work shifts and overtime as required to meet operational demands.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Welkom, Free State.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical coverage, a retirement fund, and extensive training opportunities for professional development.
• Enjoy working with a modern fleet and cutting‑edge technology in a supportive team environment.
• We provide ample paid time off, including annual leave and sick leave.
• Opportunities for career progression within the MRO sector are significant.
• Employees benefit from a strong safety culture and access to advanced maintenance facilities.
• Our client also offers performance‑based incentives and recognition programs.
• A relocation assistance package may be available for qualified candidates.
• We are committed to fostering a long‑term career for our employees within the dynamic aviation industry, providing them with the skills and experience needed to excel.