DHC 8 Structural Engineer

Position Title: DHC-8 Structural Engineer

Location: Jacksonville FL, CBP Air and Marine Operations Center

Project: Support for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering Services under Solicitation Number 70B02C24R00000136

Overview:

King Aerospace is seeking a highly skilled and experienced DHC-8 Structural Engineer to provide critical engineering support for the maintenance, repair, modification, and sustainment of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) fleet of DHC-8 (Dash 8) aircraft. This position will be integral to ensuring the continued airworthiness, safety, and operational readiness of these vital assets in support of CBP's mission. The successful candidate will apply their expertise in aircraft structural analysis, design, and repair specifically to DHC-8 aircraft, developing and implementing engineering solutions in accordance with FAA regulations and CBP requirements. This role is directly related to supporting the requirements outlined in CBP Solicitation Number 70B02C24R00000136.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct structural analysis of DHC-8 aircraft components and assemblies, including fatigue analysis, damage tolerance assessments, and stress analysis using classical methods and finite element analysis (FEA) software.
• Develop, review, and approve structural repair schemes specifically for damaged DHC-8 aircraft components, ensuring compliance with airworthiness standards and best practices.
• Create and revise engineering drawings, technical specifications, and maintenance procedures related to DHC-8 aircraft structural modifications and repairs.
• Investigate structural discrepancies, failures, and incidents on DHC-8 aircraft, and develop effective corrective actions.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to maintenance personnel on structural issues, repair procedures, and material selection specific to DHC-8 aircraft.
• Evaluate and approve supplier technical documentation related to structural parts and repairs for DHC-8 aircraft.
• Ensure all engineering work adheres to applicable FAA regulations (14 CFR Parts 21, 23, 25, 43, 91, etc.) and CBP policies relevant to DHC-8 aircraft.
• Participate in DHC-8 aircraft inspections and provide structural assessments.
• Support the development and implementation of structural modifications and upgrades to the DHC-8 fleet.
• Maintain accurate and complete engineering records and documentation related to DHC-8 aircraft.
• Collaborate effectively with other engineering disciplines (e.g., avionics, mechanical, electrical), maintenance personnel, and CBP stakeholders on matters concerning DHC-8 aircraft.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in aircraft structural engineering, materials, and repair techniques relevant to DHC-8 aircraft.
• Travel to support DHC-8 aircraft maintenance activities at various locations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering, Structural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in aviation structural engineering, with at least 6 years of De Havilland Canada DHC-8 (Dash 8) and/or P3 aircraft experience.
• Minimum of 6 years' DOD and Commercial Multi Engine aircraft experience in structural engineering.
• Demonstrated experience with the structural design, analysis, repair, and modification of DHC-8 aircraft is required.
• Proficiency in structural analysis techniques, including classical methods and finite element analysis (FEA) software (e.g., NASTRAN, ABAQUS, ANSYS).
• Familiarity with aircraft materials, corrosion control, and non-destructive testing (NDT) methods as applied to DHC-8 aircraft.
• Strong understanding of FAA regulations, airworthiness directives (ADs), and service bulletins (SBs) relevant to DHC-8 aircraft.
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear and concise engineering reports, drawings, and specifications specifically for DHC-8 applications.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical manuals, and regulatory documents related to DHC-8 aircraft.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills specific to DHC-8 structural issues.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team supporting DHC-8 operations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Must be a U.S. Citizen and be able to obtain and maintain the required security clearance as specified by CBP.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Aerospace or Structural Engineering.
• Professional Engineering (PE) license.
• Experience working directly with or supporting U.S. government agencies, particularly CBP or other Department of Homeland Security components, on DHC-8 aircraft.
• Familiarity with aircraft maintenance tracking systems and processes for DHC-8 aircraft.
• Experience with composite material structures and repairs specific to DHC-8 aircraft.
• Experience with 3D modeling software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks) relevant to DHC-8 design.