At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the certification of innovative aviation technology to reduce carbon emissions.
- Company: MAKO, a pioneering company in aviation decarbonisation.
- Benefits: Join a mission-driven team with a focus on impactful technology and career growth.
- Other info: Dynamic startup environment with a collaborative team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in aviation's future while working with cutting-edge materials.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in aircraft certification and strong technical expertise in aerospace standards.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
Aviation’s carbon footprint is growing, and "net-zero 2050" is too far away. At MAKO, we’re decarbonising the global fleet right now. By applying the biomimicry of shark skin to aircraft, our functional film is set to save billions in fuel and megatonnes of CO2 annually. We need a Head of Certification & Airworthiness to turn this breakthrough science into a global aviation standard.
The Mission: What You’ll Do
- Architect the Roadmap: Design the global master plan. You’ll identify the fastest, most tactical pathways to certification across the FAA, EASA, and CASA for a novel and highly impactful aviation technology.
- Code the DNA: Airworthiness is the foundation of our product’s implementation and impact. You will build the systems and culture that ensure compliance is baked into every molecule of our material, from the lab to the hangar.
- Lead the Charge: This is a high-stakes, "player-coach" role. You’ll get your hands dirty with PSCPs and test plans while simultaneously mentoring world-class product engineering, manufacturing systems engineering, manufacturing operations and delivery teams.
- Regulatory Diplomacy: Be our envoy. You will navigate the high‑level negotiations with regulators and DERs, winning trust and securing approvals for our novel shark‑skin technology.
- Translate Science to Standards: Act as the bridge between two worlds. You’ll turn dense regulatory jargon into clear, actionable design specs for our Aerodynamics and Materials teams.
Success Looks Like
- Month 1: Integration. You’ve audited our PSCPs, mastered our material behavior profiles, and built a shorthand with the Aerodynamics and Manufacturing teams. You know the tech, the gaps, and the players.
- Month 6: Ownership. Our certification programs are yours. You’ve streamlined requirements management and created a "single source of truth" where design data and compliance findings meet seamlessly. You have brought manufacturing operations and delivery in to ensure alignment for production authorisation and they are ready to install post certification.
- Year 1: Result. You’ve steered a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) to the finish line. MAKO is now a trusted name with regulators. We are manufacturing and delivering Flightfilm and taking a bite out of global aviation emissions.
About You
- Experience: You have 15+ years in aircraft certification, specifically with TCs, STCs, or major modifications. Experience with Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) or Production Organisation Approvals (POAs) a plus.
- Technical Expertise: You possess a deep working knowledge of CS-25, FAA 14 CFR Part 21/25, and standards like DO-160 or ARP5412.
- Startup Ready: You thrive in fast‑moving, sometimes ambiguous environments where you need to build the playbook while playing the game.
- Leadership: You have a track record of leading interdisciplinary teams through the rigours of complex aerospace programs.
- Education: You hold a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Systems, or Materials Engineering.
Why Join MAKO?
- Impact: Aviation is one of the hardest to abate industries, and its share of global emissions is only growing. Join our mission to improve the efficiency of the global fleet and save millions of tonnes of CO2 every year.
- Technology: Our technology leverages the drag‑reducing properties of shark skin to make aircraft more efficient. You'll be exposed to expertise and developments in materials, photolithography, fluid dynamics, and scale manufacturing.
- Team: Our team focuses on achieving our mission. We live our values of Lift over Drag, Active Transparency, and Changing the Boundary Conditions, and we welcome new team members who want to do the same.
- Corporate Jet: We have (most of) a corporate jet. It won't fly, but it sure does look cool.
Ready to change the boundary conditions of aviation? Let’s talk.
Head of Certification & Airworthiness employer: PLP Group
At MAKO, we are not just transforming aviation; we are redefining it. As an employer, we offer a dynamic work culture that thrives on innovation and collaboration, where your contributions directly impact the global effort to decarbonise air travel. With ample opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to cutting-edge technology, joining our team means being part of a mission-driven organisation that values transparency and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Certification & Airworthiness
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend aviation events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role at MAKO.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare to discuss your experience with aircraft certification and regulatory compliance in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've navigated complex projects in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Get hands-on! If possible, engage in projects or volunteer opportunities that allow you to work with cutting-edge aviation technologies. This will not only boost your CV but also give you real-world insights to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in being part of our mission to decarbonise aviation.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Certification & Airworthiness
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Aviation:When you’re writing your application, let your enthusiasm for aviation and sustainability shine through. We want to see how much you care about decarbonising the industry and how your experience aligns with our mission at MAKO.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in aircraft certification and regulatory compliance. We’re looking for someone who can navigate the complexities of FAA, EASA, and CASA, so be specific about your past roles and achievements in these areas.
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity! Use straightforward language to explain your qualifications and how they relate to the role. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your application is easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the Head of Certification & Airworthiness position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at PLP Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of aircraft certification processes, especially TCs and STCs. Familiarise yourself with the relevant regulations like FAA 14 CFR Part 21/25 and CS-25. This will not only help you answer technical questions but also show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role is a 'player-coach' position, be ready to discuss your experience leading interdisciplinary teams. Prepare examples of how you've navigated complex aerospace programmes and mentored others. Highlighting your leadership style will demonstrate that you can guide the team while getting hands-on when needed.
✨Understand the Company’s Mission
MAKO is all about decarbonising aviation, so make sure you understand their technology and mission. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to making aviation more efficient. Showing passion for their mission can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Regulatory Diplomacy
As the envoy for MAKO, you'll need to navigate high-level negotiations with regulators. Think of examples where you've successfully built trust and secured approvals in past roles. Being able to articulate your approach to regulatory diplomacy will be key in demonstrating your fit for this position.
