April 29, 2026
Lead Certification Engineer
We are seeking a highly capable Lead Certification Engineer to join a growing certification function and play a critical leadership role across multiple aircraft seating programmes. This position will suit an experienced aerospace certification professional with strong mechanical certification expertise who can lead certification strategy, manage regulatory approvals, supervise documentation delivery, and coordinate internal teams to meet demanding programme milestones. The successful candidate will work closely with the Head of Certification and act as a key internal technical authority, while also representing the business externally with aviation authorities such as EASA, FAA and other regulators. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to step into a visible leadership role within a dynamic growth business delivering multiple new programmes through 2026 and beyond.
About the job
Our client is an innovative and fast-growing aerospace manufacturer specialising in lightweight aircraft seating solutions for commercial aviation markets. With a strong reputation for advanced engineering, reduced fuel consumption technology, and next-generation passenger seating, the business is continuing to secure new international contracts across regional and short-haul aircraft platforms.
Their core product focus includes Economy Seating, Short Haul Seating, and Premium Economy Seating for major global aerospace customers.
The business offers an agile, entrepreneurial environment with the feel of an industrial technology start-up, where autonomy, ownership, and technical excellence are highly valued.
As Lead Certification Engineer, you will take ownership of certification activities across new and existing seating programmes, ensuring products achieve airworthiness approval from development through serial production and continued service.
A major focus of the role will be leading mechanical certification activities including:
- Structural compliance
- Stress analysis coordination
- Mechanical substantiation
- Flammability requirements
- Qualification and validation planning
Electrical certification exposure will become increasingly important in future programmes involving integrated in-flight entertainment systems.
You will also be responsible for managing certification schedules, monitoring project milestones, coordinating engineering resources, and ensuring document deliverables are completed on time.
This role includes team leadership responsibilities across a wider certification group of approximately 16–17 people, with direct collaboration across engineering, programme management, design, manufacturing and product teams.
The company requires someone confident operating independently with customers, OEMs and aviation authorities, capable of handling technical discussions, resolving challenges proactively, and driving programmes forward with minimal supervision.
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