Design Engineer

We are seeking a hands-on Design Engineer who thrives in a technical, highly regulated environment and enjoys solving complex engineering challenges. This role will be responsible for reverse engineering aircraft components, developing manufacturable engineering solutions, leading FAA-approved qualification testing efforts, and supporting the development of scalable repair processes.

The ideal candidate will combine strong engineering fundamentals, practical problem-solving abilities, and a passion for research and development. This individual will work closely with engineering, production, quality, suppliers, and regulatory stakeholders to bring new repair capabilities from concept through certification and production implementation.

Key ResponsibilitiesReverse Engineering & Design Development

• Reverse engineer aerospace components and create complete engineering definitions.
• Develop 3D models, engineering drawings, and documentation using SolidWorks.
• Apply GD&T principles in accordance with ASME Y14.5 standards.
• Utilize metrology techniques to establish accurate part definitions and critical dimensions.
• Ensure engineering data complies with FAA regulations, airworthiness requirements, and Part 145 repair standards.

Research, Development & Experimentation

• Design and execute R&D experiments to validate new repair methods, materials, tooling, and processes.
• Build and evaluate prototype components, assemblies, and fixtures.
• Analyze test results and refine designs based on engineering findings.
• Develop and validate process parameters across thermal, mechanical, material, and electrical applications as required.
• Translate experimental outcomes into repeatable and production-ready solutions.

Certification & Technical Documentation

• Develop qualification and certification test plans.
• Author engineering reports, substantiation documents, and compliance narratives.
• Maintain detailed technical documentation and program traceability.
• Serve as a technical liaison between internal teams, suppliers, and regulatory stakeholders.
• Define engineering specifications, acceptance criteria, and repair standards.

Production Support & Implementation

• Convert approved engineering data into shop-floor-ready work instructions and inspection criteria.
• Support production implementation and ramp-up activities.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing challenges and drive corrective engineering actions.
• Ensure new repair processes are robust, repeatable, scalable, and cost-effective.

Do you have experience in Vendor communication?, Do you have a Bachelor’s degree in engineering?, * Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related ABET-accredited discipline.

• 2+ years of engineering experience in a regulated industry such as aerospace, medical device, or similar environments.
• Experience supporting R&D, testing, and certification-driven engineering projects.
• Strong proficiency with SolidWorks and engineering documentation.
• Understanding of GD&T, metrology, and reverse engineering principles.
• Strong technical writing and documentation skills.
• Experience with tooling design and development.
• Ability to work hands-on in manufacturing, laboratory, and shop environments.
• Experience working directly with suppliers and vendors to support testing and engineered solutions.

Preferred

• FAA Part 145 or Part 21 experience.
• Familiarity with FAA regulations, DER processes, and conformity requirements.
• Experience with aerospace transparencies, bonded structures, or complex assemblies.
• Experience authoring engineering substantiation packages and test reports.
• Composite materials experience.
• Electrical design experience.
• Qualification and certification testing experience.

Pulled from the full job description

• Health insurance
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance, * Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Vision insurance

This opportunity is with one of Gardner Standard’s portfolio companies, Pacific Aero Tech, located in Kent, Washington.

Pacific Aero Tech (PAT) is an FAA Part 145 Repair Station specializing in aerospace transparencies, advanced repair development, and innovative engineering solutions supporting commercial and military aircraft operators worldwide.