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Designated Engineering Representative Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ALOFT AeroArchitects

Lead Interiors Engineer

Georgetown, DE · On-site

$94K - $124K/yr

Support the coordination between engineering representatives and subject FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) and ODA Unit Members. * Support Sales and Business Development teams in ...

NORDAM

ENGINEER II

Tulsa, OK

Develops design and/or repair data packages and obtains FAA approvals through internal and external FAA Designated Engineering Representatives (DERs); troubleshoot failure modes, communicate and ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Certification Engineer

Everett, WA · On-site

$135K - $140K/yr

Hands-on experience supporting Designated Engineering Representatives (DERs). * Experience with FAA/EASA certification. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in the Washington, DC metro area, Cynet ...

The Structures Company

Systems Engineer 3

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$78/hr

Preferred: 5+ years of experience as or working with Designated Engineering Representative (DER), Technical Standard Order (TSO) Certification Specialist, or EASA/FAA Compliance Verification Engineer ...

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Designated Engineering Representative information

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How much do designated engineering representative jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for designated engineering representative in the United States is $17.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Designated Engineering Representative vs Quality Assurance Inspector?

AspectDesignated Engineering RepresentativeQuality Assurance Inspector
CredentialsEngineering license, certifications in relevant fieldsQuality assurance certifications, inspection training
Work EnvironmentDesign review, technical decision-making, engineering tasksInspection, testing, compliance verification
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, engineering firmsManufacturing plants, construction sites, aerospace

The main difference is that a Designated Engineering Representative (DER) is authorized to make engineering decisions and approve designs, while a Quality Assurance Inspector focuses on inspecting and verifying product quality. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and aerospace industries but serve different functions in ensuring safety and compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Designated Engineering Representative (DER), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Designated Engineering Representative (DER), you need deep expertise in aeronautical engineering, regulatory compliance knowledge, and usually an engineering degree with significant industry experience. Familiarity with FAA regulations, certification processes, engineering analysis tools, and documentation systems is critical, and FAA DER authorization is required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help DERs collaborate with regulatory agencies and engineering teams. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, compliant aircraft designs and smooth certification processes within the aviation industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Designated Engineering Representatives (DERs) in coordinating with regulatory authorities?

Designated Engineering Representatives (DERs) often encounter challenges when interpreting and applying complex regulatory standards to unique or innovative projects. They must ensure that all documentation and test results meet strict FAA requirements, which can involve extensive communication and negotiation with regulatory authorities. Additionally, DERs may need to balance project timelines with the thoroughness required for compliance, making strong organizational and interpersonal skills essential for success. Collaborating effectively with both internal engineering teams and external regulators is key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring certification success.

What is a Designated Engineering Representative (DER)?

A Designated Engineering Representative (DER) is an individual authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to approve or recommend approval for technical data and engineering designs related to aircraft certification. DERs are typically highly experienced engineers or technical experts who ensure that aviation products meet all safety and regulatory standards. They work either as independent consultants or as part of an organization's engineering team, helping to streamline the certification process. DERs play a critical role in maintaining the safety and compliance of the aviation industry.
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What states have the most Designated Engineering Representative jobs? States with the most job openings for Designated Engineering Representative jobs include:
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Designated Engineering Representative jobs near you
Infographic showing various Designated Engineering Representative job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,257 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Aircraft Certification Engineer Propulsion (Remote)

AVTECH Global

Dayton, OH • Remote

Per diem

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Aviation Technology Associates (AVTECH) is looking for an Aircraft Certification Engineer Propulsion.

Position Purpose:

AVTECH Global is seeking an experienced Aircraft Certification Engineer Propulsion to support the airworthiness certification of a military commercial derivative aircraft (MCDA). In this role, you will serve as a technical authority on certification strategies, bridging FAA Title 14 CFR Part 25 regulatory requirements with MIL-HDBK-516C military airworthiness standards. You will work collaboratively with government and prime contractor stakeholders to ensure compliant, safe, and on-schedule aircraft certification.


Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Provide Subject Matter Expert (SME) level understanding of engine performance, installation, fuel/oil systems, and integration with the airframe.
  • Serve as the technical SME for aircraft certification, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and MIL-HDBK-516C airworthiness requirements.
  • Develop, review and execute certification plans for MCDA programs.
  • Interface with military airworthiness authorities and DER/DAR representatives to coordinate approval activities.
  • Identify and resolve certification gaps arising from the interaction of civil and military airworthiness requirements
  • Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the development of internal certification processes, tools, and best practices.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

As an ideal candidate to join the AVTECH team, you will meet the following:

Education and Experience Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 15+ years of experience in aircraft certification related to propulsion, with direct involvement in FAA type certification or supplemental type certificate (STC) programs.
  • Prior experience with military commercial derivative aircraft programs preferred.
  • Ability to pass a Tier 1 (minimum) Investigation for work on Department of Defense contracts. Existing security clearance is preferred.
  • FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) authorization in one or more disciplines.

Required Unique Skills:

  • Must have a thorough working knowledge of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14CFR - especially Chapter I, Part 25), as it pertains to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulation procedures and the STC process
  • Requires experience in program management, effective communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to coordinate certification programs for alterations and modifications.
  • Should have experience creating certification documents such as ICAs, Ground/Flight Test Plans, Compliance Checklists, Project Specific Certification Plans, etc.

Location / Travel:

This is a REMOTE position with no relocation requirement. Travel to Dayton, OH will be required once per month (minimum) for 3-4 days at a time. All travel costs are covered (including, flights, hotel, rental car, GSA per diem, etc.). Additionally, the travel locations/frequency are subject to change with an advanced notice.