Manager, Designated Engineering Representatives (DER)

At Wisk, we're transforming the future of urban mobility through safe, all-electric, autonomous flight. We are a passionate team working together toward a sustainable future, solving high-impact problems that have never been solved before. By delivering everyday flight for everyone, we're making it possible to spend less time getting there and more time being there. If you want to be part of shaping the future of mobility, then read on!

We are looking for a Manager, Designated Engineering Representatives (DER) to join our team. The goal of a DER Manager at Wisk is to ensure that our aircraft certification programs are appropriately supported by the right combination of FAA Designated Engineering Representatives, and that our Designated Engineering Representatives are given the support they need to perform their roles for our company. You will be part of the Certification Team at Wisk that is responsible for ensuring that we achieve FAA Type Certification, Production Certification, and gain Operator approval under Part 135.

This is a hybrid work opportunity. At Wisk, this means working onsite at our Mountain View office 2 to 3 days per week with flexibility for the remainder of the days. 

Reporting to the Deputy Director of Certification & SMS, the role is a full time position which is responsible for the management of Wisk staff and contractors appointed as FAA Designees in accordance with US 14 CFR Part 183. A primary component of this position is supporting FAA Designees on Wisk certification programs in maintaining independence from undue interference in their role as representatives of the FAA. An additional key responsibility is the coordination of training and development of personnel within the Wisk team in support of their application for Company DER status.

What you will do:

• Establish and maintain governance processes associated with growing our in-house compliance-finding capability
• Manage Wisk staff and consultants delegated by the FAA as Designated Engineering Representatives (DERs) on Wisk programs
• Recruit additional DERs where necessary to support the requirements of Wisk certification programs
• Coordinate the development and training of Wisk Company Designee candidates
• Familiarize Wisk personnel with FAA aircraft certification processes

Requirements:

• You have at least 12 years experience in aircraft development and certification programs, with a Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a similar field
• You have extensive familiarity with Designated Engineering Representatives and the associated FAA training and delegation processes
• You have had previous involvement in aircraft Type Certification and Production Certification programs (FAA, EASA, and/or other regulatory authorities)
• You have previously managed staff in an Organization Designation Authorization (FAA ODA) or Design Organization Approval (EASA Part 21J DOA) environment, or held a Management DER or Administrative DER designation
• Understanding of delegation processes for EASA and other regulatory authorities
• Demonstrated results applying exceptional people management skills and building lasting professional relationships
• Familiarity with aircraft systems and avionics
• Familiarity with aircraft systems engineering methodology, aircraft system safety assessment methodology 
• An established network of professional contacts in the aviation and regulatory sectors
• This role will require occasional travel to our facilities in conjunction with the above responsibilities.

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups in the tech industry and aerospace, to apply for our job openings. We consider every candidate who shares our passion for making the impossible possible, even if they may not strictly meet all preferred requirements. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives can profoundly influence both our product and our company culture.

Wisk HQ located in Mountain View just a couple of hundred feet from Shoreline Lake and its surrounding walking/jogging trails. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision and life insurance, alternative work schedule (9/80), flexible time off, 11 company holidays, a 401(k) plan with 50% company matching vested immediately, commuter assistance, and education assistance. And on top of all that, we also offer a variety of perks such as free catered lunches, flight lessons, wellness allowances, snacks, drinks, fruit, employee referral bonus, charitable giving match, patent bonus program, happy hours and much more.

To all recruitment agencies: Wisk Aero does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Wisk Aero employees, or any other organization location. Wisk Aero is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes. 

Wisk Aero provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Wisk Aero abides by applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Wisk Aero is an E-Verify employer.