VSA - VP of Engineering

McFarlane Aviation • Burlington, NC

1d • Remote

About The Position

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Vice President of Engineering to lead our multi-site engineering organization within the aerospace manufacturing sector, with a critical focus on PMA (Parts Manufacturer Approval) development and certification. This executive role is responsible for overseeing the full product development lifecycle—from concept through certification and production—ensuring compliance, innovation, and operational excellence across all engineering functions.

The ideal candidate brings deep experience in regulated aerospace environments, has a proven track record in developing and certifying complex aerospace products, and thrives in collaborative, fast-paced organizations. You will serve as a strategic thought partner to executive leadership, while also being a hands-on leader capable of guiding technical teams through complex challenges.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Aerospace, or Systems Engineering (Master’s or MBA preferred).
• Minimum 15+ years of engineering experience, with at least 10 years in executive or senior leadership roles in aerospace manufacturing.
• Demonstrated success in leading multi-site, multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
• Deep understanding and hands-on experience with the FAA PMA process, including regulatory submissions, audits, and ongoing compliance.
• Proven expertise across a broad range of aerospace components including airframes, firewall-forward systems, wheels, brakes, and landing gear.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to align technical strategies to business outcomes.
• Skilled in building relationships across all levels of the organization—from shop floor to executive team.
• Exceptional communication, leadership presence, and ability to influence cross-functionally.
• Strategic mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Execution-focused, capable of turning vision into action.
• Inspirational leader who leads with integrity, humility, and confidence.
• Customer-oriented with a strong understanding of market demands and quality expectations.
• Resilient and adaptable, comfortable navigating ambiguity and change.
• Committed to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance culture.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s or MBA preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead the engineering organization across multiple facilities, setting strategic direction aligned with business goals and aerospace industry standards.
• Champion engineering excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement in all aspects of product design, development, and certification.
• Own the full lifecycle of product development—including ideation, design, analysis, prototyping, testing, FAA certification (PMA), and production readiness.
• Oversee engineering disciplines related to airframes, engine accessories, landing gear, wheels, brakes, and other high-criticality systems.
• Lead and manage all aspects of the FAA PMA approval process, ensuring efficient execution, compliance with regulatory requirements, and minimal delays to market.
• Maintain robust systems for documentation, reporting, and traceability to meet FAA and internal quality standards.
• Build and develop a high-performing engineering team with a strong focus on mentorship, career development, and technical leadership.
• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and innovation, where engineers are empowered to solve complex problems collaboratively.
• Drive standardization and efficiency across engineering workflows, tools, and technologies to improve quality, scalability, and throughput.
• Leverage data and KPIs to monitor product development performance and engineering effectiveness.
• Partner closely with Quality, Supply Chain, Operations, Sales, and Program Management to ensure alignment across product and business objectives.
• Act as a key technical voice in strategic planning, customer engagements, and executive decision-making.

Benefits

• A collaborative, hands-on environment where your ideas and expertise make an impact.
• A team of aviation professionals who take pride in their work and support one another.
• Competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, growth opportunities, and meaningful work that keeps aircraft performing at their best.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees