Aircraft Interior Design Engineer

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Hybrid work model

Collaborative design environment

Location: Paarl, Western Cape

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Aircraft Interior Design Engineer to join our client in Paarl, Western Cape. The role focuses on conceiving and developing cabin interiors that blend aesthetics with safety and regulatory compliance, from initial sketches to detailed 3D models.

You will collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and client teams in a hybrid environment, applying materials knowledge, ergonomics, and certification processes to deliver compelling passenger experiences for modern

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.
• Min 4 years in aircraft interior design or related aerospace design.
• Proficiency in CATIA V5 and SolidWorks; rendering tools.
• Knowledge of aerospace materials and certification requirements.
• Understanding of ergonomics and passenger experience design.
• Portfolio of relevant design work required.
• Familiarity with FAR Part 25.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop innovative aircraft interior designs.
• Create detailed 3D models, renderings, and technical drawings.
• Ensure designs comply with aviation regulations and manufacturability.
• Collaborate with structural engineers for certification.
• Select materials and finishes for aesthetics, weight, and fire safety.
• Present design proposals to clients.
• Support prototyping and testing phases.
• Coordinate with manufacturing for producibility.
• Prepare documentation for certification submissions.

Skills

3D CAD proficiency

Ergonomics knowledge

Visual design

Communication skills

Portfolio presentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design

Tools

CATIA V5

SolidWorks

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in aerospace interior solutions, is looking for a creative and technically proficient Aircraft Interior Design Engineer to join their team in Paarl, Western Cape. This role is responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and developing aesthetically pleasing and functional aircraft cabin interiors that meet stringent safety, regulatory, and client requirements. You will work closely with engineering, manufacturing, and client teams to translate design visions into reality, from initial sketches to detailed 3D models and final specifications. A keen eye for detail, a strong understanding of materials science, ergonomics, and aerospace certification processes are essential. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for collaborative design sessions and on-site validation, balanced with remote work for focused design development and analysis. It's an exciting opportunity to shape the passenger experience in the aviation industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop innovative aircraft interior designs, including seating, galleys, lavatories, and cabin furnishings.
• Create detailed 3D models, renderings, and technical drawings using CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks).
• Ensure all designs comply with aviation regulations (e.g., FAR Part 25), structural integrity, and manufacturability requirements.
• Collaborate with structural engineers to ensure the integrity and certification of interior components.
• Select appropriate materials and finishes considering aesthetics, durability, weight, and fire safety standards.
• Work closely with clients to understand their requirements and present design proposals.
• Support the prototyping and testing phases of interior components.
• Liaise with manufacturing teams to ensure designs can be produced efficiently and to the required quality.
• Research and incorporate emerging trends and technologies in aircraft interior design.
• Prepare design documentation for certification submissions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in aircraft interior design or a related aerospace design role.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA V5, SolidWorks) and rendering tools.
• Strong understanding of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and certification requirements.
• Knowledge of ergonomics, human factors, and passenger experience design principles.
• Excellent visual and conceptual design skills.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work effectively within a hybrid environment.
• A portfolio showcasing relevant design work is required.
• Familiarity with relevant aviation regulations (e.g., FAR Part 25).

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Employees benefit from working on cutting-edge projects and collaborating with a talented team of designers and engineers.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development are actively encouraged.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility while maintaining close collaboration.
• The Paarl, Western Cape location offers a beautiful working environment within a developing industrial area.
• This role is ideal for a designer passionate about creating exceptional aircraft cabin experiences.