At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in managing avionics systems and ensuring fleet airworthiness.
- Company: Join AirTanker, a key player in the UK's defence sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, bonuses, and adventure training opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with exposure to senior stakeholders and complex problem-solving.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on aircraft safety and compliance while leading innovative projects.
- Qualifications: CAA/EASA licence or degree-level qualification with relevant experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 € per year.
This is an FTC opportunity until June 2029. We are looking for an experienced Systems Engineer Team Leader (Avionics) to provide technical leadership and oversight across avionics systems, fleet continued airworthiness, and subcontracted maintenance activities. This is a key leadership role within Fleet Engineering, combining deep technical expertise with people management, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory responsibility. You will act as a subject matter expert, supporting operational teams, maintenance organisations, and major programmes while ensuring continued compliance and safety across the fleet.
Why AirTanker? AirTanker is a vital part of the UK’s defence capability, delivering air-to-air refuelling and air transport services to the RAF and MOD. We operate at the intersection of military precision and commercial innovation. As a Systems Engineer Team Leader (Avionics), you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe, compliant and effective management of aircraft systems and continued airworthiness. By leading technical activities, overseeing subcontracted services, and working closely with maintenance organisations, OEMs and internal stakeholders, you will directly contribute to fleet safety, regulatory compliance and overall operational performance.
What’s in it for you?
- Stakeholder Exposure: Work closely with OEMs, regulators, maintenance organisations, and senior internal stakeholders.
- Operational Variety: Support fleet operations, modifications, reliability investigations, and major programmes—no two days are the same.
- Complex Problem-Solving: Tackle technically challenging issues involving aircraft systems, software, and regulatory compliance.
- Strategic Impact: Shape continued airworthiness strategy, procedures, and long‑term fleet performance.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Including private medical insurance, bonus scheme, EV scheme, contributory pension, and more.
- Adventure & Belonging: Battlefield tours, adventure training, and family fun days.
What you'll be doing:
- Provide oversight and management of Appendix II subcontracted services and Part 145 maintenance activities, both internal and external.
- Manage fleet continued airworthiness, including Airworthiness Directives, Service Bulletins, modifications, and maintenance requests using company IT systems.
- Act as the technical liaison with manufacturers, OEMs, and Part 21 organisations, ensuring approved data is obtained and communicated clearly to the wider business.
- Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of departmental procedures and processes.
- Monitor and analyse aircraft systems performance, defects, reliability data, and design issues, producing reports and supporting reliability and engineering reviews.
- Provide technical leadership and expert support to major programmes and internal and external maintenance providers.
- Manage aircraft software and data, including navigation and EGPWS databases, CVR/DFDR readouts, and ELT registrations.
- Maintain and update regulatory and compliance documentation in line with Air Operations requirements.
What you'll bring:
- CAA/EASA licence with A330 type rating, or a recognised degree-level technical qualification, or equivalent industry experience.
- Proven experience in a Technical Services, CAMO, or aircraft maintenance environment.
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage relationships with subcontractors, OEMs, and regulatory authorities.
- High level of competence using complex IT and office-based systems for aircraft technical management.
- Experience developing and managing technical procedures, manuals, and regulatory documentation, with the ability to deliver to tight timescales in a pressured environment.
Systems Engineer Team Leader (Avionics) in Carterton employer: AirTanker
AirTanker is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of the UK's defence capability while fostering a culture of innovation and teamwork. As a Systems Engineer Team Leader (Avionics), you will benefit from comprehensive perks such as private medical insurance, a bonus scheme, and adventure training, all within a dynamic environment that prioritises employee growth and operational excellence. Join us to make a strategic impact on fleet safety and compliance, while enjoying a variety of engaging challenges and stakeholder interactions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Systems Engineer Team Leader (Avionics) in Carterton
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend aviation events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Systems Engineer Team Leader role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your technical expertise and leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've tackled complex problems in avionics or led teams to success. We want to see your passion and capability shine through!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before any interview! Research AirTanker, understand their operations, and think about how your skills align with their needs. We recommend preparing answers to common questions and even some situational ones that relate to fleet airworthiness and compliance—show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly. Let’s get you on board as a Systems Engineer Team Leader!
We think you need these skills to ace Systems Engineer Team Leader (Avionics) in Carterton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Systems Engineer Team Leader role. Highlight your experience in avionics, technical leadership, and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your experience with compliance and stakeholder engagement.
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:In your application, be sure to showcase your technical expertise in aircraft systems and maintenance. We’re looking for someone who can tackle complex problems, so share examples of how you've done this in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it. Plus, you’ll get all the latest updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at AirTanker
✨Know Your Avionics Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your avionics knowledge before the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific systems, regulations, and compliance issues that are relevant to the role. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the basics but have a deep understanding of the technical aspects.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Systems Engineer Team Leader, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead teams effectively. Prepare examples of how you've managed teams in the past, resolved conflicts, or improved processes. Highlight your experience with stakeholder engagement and how you’ve successfully collaborated with various parties.
✨Prepare for Complex Problem-Solving Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would tackle complex technical challenges. Think of specific examples from your previous roles where you solved difficult problems, especially those involving aircraft systems or regulatory compliance. This will help illustrate your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Familiarise Yourself with AirTanker’s Operations
Research AirTanker’s operations, their role in the UK’s defence capability, and any recent news or developments. Understanding their mission and values will allow you to tailor your responses and show genuine interest in the company, making you a more appealing candidate.
