Aircraft Systems Engineer

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, seeks an Aircraft Systems Engineer to design, integrate and test aircraft systems, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. The role combines on‑site work in Upington with remote collaboration for project delivery.

You will analyze system needs, develop specifications, run simulations, oversee testing and documentation, and mentor junior engineers in a hybrid, innovation‑driven environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in aircraft systems design, development, or integration.
• Experience with hydraulics, pneumatics, fuel systems or environmental control systems.
• Proficiency in systems engineering methodologies and tools (SysML, CAD software, MATLAB/Simulink).
• Understanding of aircraft design principles, manufacturing processes, and certification requirements.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop aircraft systems, including hydraulics, pneumatics, fuel and environmental control systems.
• Define system requirements, specifications, and architectures based on project needs and regulatory standards.
• Conduct analysis and simulations to validate system design and performance.
• Oversee the integration of different aircraft systems for seamless interaction.
• Develop and execute test plans for system validation and verification, in lab and on aircraft.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during design, integration or testing.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, flight test, and customer support teams.
• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation including design reports and test procedures.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and best practices in aircraft systems engineering.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical development.

Skills

Aircraft systems design

System integration

SysML

MATLAB/Simulink

CAD software

Regulatory standards

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering (or related)

Tools

CAD software

MATLAB/Simulink

SysML tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled and motivated Aircraft Systems Engineer to join their growing team in Upington, Northern Cape . This role involves the design, development, integration, and testing of various aircraft systems, ensuring they meet stringent performance, safety, and regulatory requirements. You will be responsible for analyzing system needs, developing technical specifications, and collaborating with cross‑functional teams to bring complex aircraft systems to life. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in engineering principles applied to aviation, excellent problem‑solving skills, and a commitment to innovation. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, combining essential on‑site work at our Upington facility with the flexibility of remote work. Be a part of shaping the future of aviation technology in the Northern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop aircraft systems, including but not limited to, hydraulic, pneumatic, fuel, and environmental control systems.
• Define system requirements, specifications, and architectures based on project needs and regulatory standards.
• Conduct analysis and simulations to validate system design and performance.
• Oversee the integration of different aircraft systems, ensuring seamless interaction and functionality.
• Develop and execute test plans for system validation and verification, both in lab environments and on aircraft.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues that arise during design, integration, or testing phases.
• Collaborate closely with manufacturing, flight test, and customer support teams.
• Prepare comprehensive technical documentation, including design reports, test procedures, and maintenance manuals.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and industry best practices in aircraft systems engineering.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the technical development of the team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in aircraft systems design, development, or integration.
• Proven experience with one or more aircraft system domains (e.g., hydraulics, pneumatics, fuel systems, environmental control systems).
• Proficiency in systems engineering methodologies and tools (e.g., SysML, CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink).
• Strong understanding of aircraft design principles, manufacturing processes, and certification requirements.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and meet deadlines.
• Adaptability to a hybrid work model, including necessary on‑site presence in Upington.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package and performance‑based incentives. Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided. Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, including advanced training and certifications, are readily available. Our client cultivates a supportive and innovative work environment with a focus on work‑life balance through its hybrid model. Generous paid time off is offered. This role is based in the strategically important region of Upington, Northern Cape .