Director of Engineering

About the Opportunity

Take the lead in engineering innovation as a Director of Engineering with a leading aviation organization in Gilbert, AZ. In this strategic leadership role, you will oversee engineering and manufacturing operations while driving the development of innovative products and services for airline customers.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced aviation engineering professional who combines technical expertise, strategic thinking, and strong leadership skills. You will play a key role in guiding engineering initiatives, developing high-performing teams, managing resources, and ensuring projects meet quality, regulatory, budget, and timeline requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic engineering plans and initiatives.
• Lead and inspire engineering teams in the development of innovative products and services.
• Oversee engineering budgets, resources, and project priorities.
• Ensure projects are completed within established timelines and budgets.
• Establish and maintain quality assurance standards across engineering projects.
• Provide technical guidance to engineering teams and airline customers.
• Evaluate customer needs and develop customized engineering solutions.
• Ensure engineering projects comply with applicable industry standards, regulations, and requirements.
• Support root cause investigations, reliability reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, machining, testing, and other technical teams to support product development.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related STEM field.
• 5 years of experience in an aviation technical role.
• 3 years of experience managing engineering or technical teams, including hiring, employee development, and budget management.
• Proficiency in SOLIDWORKS, including PDM workflows.
• Expertise in DER repair, design, development, and repair processes.
• Comprehensive knowledge of FAA Part 145 Repair Station regulations.
• Strong knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, electromechanical products, and related systems.
• Experience developing test requirements and fixtures.
• Strong communication skills for root cause investigations and reliability reporting.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with data acquisition systems, including NI and Dewesoft.
• Experience collaborating with machinists on product development.
• Knowledge of statistical techniques, metrology, and test uncertainty evaluations.
• Familiarity with inspection methods and equipment, including CMMs.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive salary of $100,000–$121,000.
• 401(k) with company matching.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions.
• Generous paid time off.
• Tuition reimbursement for professional development.
• Flexible scheduling.
• Comprehensive wellness programs.

Why Apply Through Total Aviation Staffing?

At Total Aviation Staffing, we connect aviation professionals with leading companies and career opportunities across the industry, including:

• Commercial Aviation – Passenger airlines, cargo operations, and aircraft leasing.
• Business & General Aviation – Corporate jets, charter services, and private aviation.
• MRO & Aftermarket Services – Aircraft maintenance, repair, overhaul, and parts distribution.
• Aerospace & Defense – Military aviation, space systems, and defense programs.
• Aviation Technology & Manufacturing – OEMs, avionics, propulsion, and emerging technologies.

Even if this position is not the perfect fit, applying with us can give you access to additional aviation career opportunities that may not be publicly advertised.

• Work with leading companies in aviation and aerospace.
• Gain access to multiple career opportunities.
• Receive expert career guidance from specialized aviation recruiters.

Apply today and take the next step in your aviation engineering career.