Design Structures Authoriser
Location: Cheshire, Chester, North West England
Job Type: Contract, Full-Time Hours
Industry: Aerospace and Aviation
Job Description
The Design Structures Authoriser is responsible for the technical review, approval and authorisation of structural designs within aerospace projects. This role ensures compliance with regulatory standards, company policies and industry best practises throughout the design process. The post holder provides expert judgement on the structural integrity and airworthiness of components and assemblies, supporting the development and certification of aerospace products.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Review and approve structural design documentation, calculations, drawings and analysis reports to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and design standards.
Authorise structural design changes, modifications and repairs in accordance with company procedures and regulatory requirements.
Provide expert technical guidance and support to design engineers and project teams regarding structural design principles and airworthiness criteria.
Evaluate structural test results and inspection reports, ensuring conformity with design intent and certification standards.
Collaborate with certification authorities and regulatory bodies to facilitate product approvals and audits.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of aerospace structural materials, design methodologies and relevant legislation.
Identify and assess potential risks related to structural design and recommend appropriate mitigation measures.
Ensure all authorisation activities are fully documented and traceable within the company’s quality management system.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing design assurance processes and product safety.
Required Qualifications
Recognised engineering qualification in aerospace, mechanical or structural engineering or a closely related discipline.
Professional registration with an appropriate engineering institution (e.g. Chartered Engineer status) is essential.
Education
Bachelor’s degree or higher in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering or structural engineering.
Experience
Minimum of five years’ experience working within aerospace structural design or certification roles.
Proven experience in authorising structural designs, modifications and repairs within a regulated aerospace environment.
Familiarity with civil and military airworthiness requirements and standards.
Experience liaising with regulatory authorities and managing design approval processes.
Knowledge and Skills
Comprehensive understanding of structural analysis techniques, materials behaviour and load assessment in aerospace applications.
Strong knowledge of relevant aerospace design codes, standards and legislation.
Ability to interpret and critically assess complex engineering documentation and test data.
Excellent attention to detail and methodical approach to authorisation and documentation tasks.
Effective communication skills to clearly convey technical information to diverse stakeholders.
Proficiency in design software and engineering tools relevant to structural analysis and documentation.
Preferred Qualifications
Postgraduate qualification specialising in aerospace structures or related fields.
Experience with certification standards such as EASA Part 21 or equivalent civil aviation authorities.
Previous involvement in full product lifecycle including design, testing, certification and in-service support.
Knowledge of damage tolerance and fatigue assessment methodologies.
Working Conditions
This role is based at the company’s facility in Chester, North West England, and requires full-time attendance during standard business hours.
Occasional extended hours may be necessary to meet project deadlines or support certification activities.
The post holder works primarily in an office environment with frequent use of computers and design software.
Some visits to manufacturing, testing or maintenance facilities may be required to verify compliance and support investigations.
The role demands a high level of concentration and responsibility, ensuring all safety and quality standards are met without compromise