Lead Project Engineer

Recaro Aircraft Seating Americas - Fort Worth, TX

Full-time - Mid Level

Fort Worth, TX

Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

About the position

The position is responsible for managing the Platform Engineering Team from concept to completion for customer programs, focusing on aircraft seat products. This role encompasses overseeing technical aspects, regulatory compliance, and customer requirements while ensuring effective team management and process improvement.

Responsibilities

• Manage all Platform Engineering functions of the Design Organization, including Project Engineers and Platform Design Engineers.
• Oversee the development, documentation, implementation, and continual improvement of Platform Engineering processes.
• Measure the effectiveness of the Platform Engineering processes through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Devise and implement corrective action measures based on KPI tracking.
• Structure the Platform Engineering team for clear responsibilities and optimum efficiency.
• Manage hiring and training of new Platform Engineering personnel and conduct performance evaluations.
• Analyze and communicate capacity requirements based on workload for the Platform Engineering team.
• Maintain knowledge of technical requirements for RECARO Aircraft Seating products and ensure compliance with ISO9001/AS9100 certification.
• Represent the company in internal and external audits for regulatory compliance.
• Maintain compliance with department and program budgets once approved.
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure timely Engineering support for customer and development programs.
• Work closely with the Sales team to prepare customer offers and provide Engineering support in sales campaigns.
• Liaise with airlines, FAA/EASA, installers, and suppliers to ensure timely project completion.
• Develop tools to track deliverables, testing, and compliance findings for on-time project completion.
• Coordinate with Global Engineering management teams to align departmental processes and implement Best Practices.
• Define training requirements for the Platform Engineering Team and develop a training program.
• Provide input to program risk analysis and risk management processes, addressing technical risks and devising mitigation actions.
• Release drawing and design documentation of seat components and approve design change proposals according to RECARO standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering with a minimum of 8 years of experience in the Aerospace interior industry, or a Master's degree with a minimum of 6 years of experience.
• In-depth understanding of FAA/EASA Part 21 and Part 25 Certification procedures for commercial aircraft seats.
• Working knowledge of CAD systems, mechanical design, drafting, and tolerance.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes used in the aircraft seat industry, including machining, forging, casting, and assembly.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to anticipate technical issues.
• Leadership and team-building skills with a proven track record of meeting commitments.
• Excellent organization, communication, and presentation skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Advanced knowledge of aircraft documentation systems for after sales and aircraft configuration control systems.
• Understanding of dynamic and static testing principles.
• Prior experience as a technical lead or team lead.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• 401k retirement plan
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities