Manager - Structures Engineering

United Airlines•Chicago, IL

1d•$129,675 - $168,794

About The Position

At United, we have some of the best aircraft in the world. Our Technical Operations team is full of aircraft maintenance technicians, engineers, planners, ground equipment and facilities professionals, and supply chain teams that help make sure they’re well taken care of and ready to get our customers to their desired destinations. If you’re ready to work on our planes, join our Tech Ops experts and help keep our fleet in tip-top shape. Key Responsibilities The Manager of Structures Engineering will lead a team of engineers responsible for ensuring the structural integrity, airworthiness, and reliability of United’s fleet. This role combines strong technical expertise with leadership responsibilities and operates within a matrix organizational structure, where collaboration across global teams and functional areas is critical to success. You will serve as both a technical subject matter expert and a people leader, managing a team of 3-7 engineers with diverse skill sets. You will ensure the timely delivery of high-quality engineering outputs to manage the structural health of the fleet through the development of projects that will ensure safety, compliance, and reliability. Responsibilities include Airworthiness Directive and Service Bulletin incorporation, configuration control, monitoring corrosion protection control system effectiveness, project ownership/support, STC support, prioritizing team activities, and team member performance/development. The position requires close coordination with OEMs, regulatory authorities (such as the FAA), and internal operational groups to maintain compliance, safety, and operational excellence.

Requirements

B.S Degree or equivalent experience in Engineering or related technical field
2-4 years of experience as a principal engineer (or similar role elsewhere in the industry)
Engineering skill sets which can be applied to a range of aircraft systems, maintenance programs and engines
For service engineering positions, these same technical skills are applied towards operational issues versus project specific work
Ability to analyze complex technical issues, detailed level of project management for regulatory compliance modifications
Excellent verbal and technical writing skills needed
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position

Nice To Haves

Strong skills in MS office applications (Excel, word, PowerPoint, etc.)

Responsibilities

Lead and mentor a team of structural engineers within a matrix organization, fostering collaboration, innovation, and technical excellence.
Define and maintain aircraft structural maintenance programs, configuration standards, and serviceability criteria to ensure regulatory and safety compliance, including adherence to ADs and CFR requirements. Experience with CPCP programs and project management is an added advantage.
Perform technical and administrative reviews of engineering documentation, structural analysis and modifications as prepared by team members to ensure continued airworthiness and reliability.
Engage with OEMs, FAA and other external entities as necessary, related to technical issues and industry trends to effect results in support of United operational needs and initiatives
As a member of the leadership team, own and present project and issue status at departmental meetings
Provide leadership and development to team members, in support of their career growth and engagement
Collaborate cross-functionally with Planning, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Reliability teams to evaluate fleet decisions, ensuring an optimal balance of safety, cost, reliability, and utilization.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives by developing processes and tools that enhance team effectiveness and compliance.
Manage multiple complex projects in a matrix environment, including business justification, cost-benefit analysis, and execution oversight.
Excellent verbal and technical writing skills needed
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position