1

Designated Engineering Representative Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) a plus * 2+ years' experience with FAA regulations procedures and the STC process * Advanced knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations and equivalent ...

Software DER

Tampa, FL · On-site +1

Active appointment as an FAA Designated Engineering Representative with a current software ticket as either a company or consultant designee. * Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering ...

Software DER

Tampa, FL · On-site +1

FAA Designated Engineering Representative with a software ticket as either a company or consultant designee. * Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or an ...

New

Engineer

Essex Junction, VT · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Aviatron, Inc. takes pride in its' key role of providing leadership in the use of quality Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) & Designated Engineering Representative (DER) parts on Air Cycle Machines ...

Technical knowledge and experience that meets the qualification requirements of an FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) or Organization Designed Authority (ODA)-Authorized Representative ...

Avionics Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

INCOSE CSEP/ESEP, Designated Engineering Representative (DER), or USAF TPS coursework. * Knowledge of integrating SDNs, content-routing, and software-defined radios into legacy airframes. * Agile ...

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Designated Engineering Representative information

See salary details

$10

$17

$25

How much do designated engineering representative jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 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 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.

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.

More about Designated Engineering Representative jobs
What states have the most Designated Engineering Representative jobs? States with the most job openings for Designated Engineering Representative jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Designated Engineering Representative jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Designated Engineering Representative jobs are:
Infographic showing various Designated Engineering Representative job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,257 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Senior/Staff Propeller Design Engineer

Senior/Staff Propeller Design Engineer

Joby Aviation

Santa Cruz, CA

$149.90K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. Since 2009, our team has worked steadily to make this dream a reality. We’ve designed and tested many generations of prototype aircraft capable of serving in a network of electric air taxis. We’re looking for talented, committed individuals to join our team as we push onward toward certifying the Joby aircraft, scaling our manufacturing, and launching our initial commercial service.


Working as a propeller mechanical design engineer you will play a key role with design, development, and certification of advanced propeller systems for next-generation aircraft. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams - including analysis, test, manufacturing, and certification teams - to develop and certify the Joby propeller systems.


  • Support across all phases of the design cycle, concept & optimization, preliminary through detailed design, development, analysis, validation, certification, manufacturing, and operational service for propeller blades and other propeller components based on engineering fundamentals, and 14 CFR Part 35 or 14 CFR Part 27/29 regulations.
  • Design mechanical components and assemblies as well as associated test and manufacturing assemblies with an emphasis on structural integrity, manufacturability, reliability, and maintainability.
  • Generate comprehensive test documentation, adhering to standardized methods in coordination with the FAA and other relevant stakeholders.
  • Provide technical expertise and guidance to cross-functional teams, ensuring adherence to certification requirements throughout the product development lifecycle.

  • Degree: BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of related technical experience, in the areas of propeller or rotor systems. 
  • Type of Relevant Experience: Experience with propeller or rotor hub design, experience using 3D design software (3DExperience/CATIA or equivalent).
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with a keen attention to detail.
  • Must be able to verbally communicate, read and comprehend written and verbal instructions, detailed blueprints, and other similar authorized drawings and documents.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • MS Office Suite and general computer skills.
  • Ability to be onsite in Santa Cruz, CA

  • M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of related technical experience, in the areas of propeller or rotor systems.
  • Experience with CAE software (Abaqus/Nastran or equivalent).
  • 14 CFR Part 35 Designated Engineering Representative (DER).
  • Knowledge of propeller and rotor dynamics, aerodynamics, and loads.
  • Knowledge of engineering drawing standards (ANSI 14.5Y).
  • Knowledge of FAA aircraft certification requirements for 14 CFR Part 35.

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $149,900 - $250,000/yr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.