Senior Certification Engineer

About MAKO

MAKO is an innovative aerospace technology firm dedicated to enhancing the efficiency of the global aviation fleet. Our flagship product, Flightfilm, inspired by shark-skin drag reduction, offers up to a 4% efficiency improvement for commercial and defense aircraft, significantly lowering carbon emissions worldwide. Headquartered in Sydney, Australia, MAKO collaborates with major airlines and manufacturers globally to deliver practical and scalable efficiency advancements that bridge existing fleets with future aviation technologies.

Role and Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage MAKO's aircraft modification certification initiatives from initiation through regulatory approval.
• Translate complex aviation regulatory standards into actionable and engineering-friendly requirements.
• Develop, prepare, and submit comprehensive compliance documentation including certification and test plans, conformity records, and reports.
• Act as the primary liaison between MAKO and regulatory bodies such as FAA, EASA, CASA, military airworthiness agencies, and Designated Engineering Representatives (DERs).
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to integrate certification considerations into organizational processes.
• Identify and implement expedited certification pathways across diverse aircraft types and regulatory jurisdictions, aiming to shorten timelines for Flightfilm deployment.

Success Expectations

• Within the first month, familiarize yourself thoroughly with Flightfilm technology, existing certification strategies, and cultivate strong working relationships with relevant internal teams.
• By six months, take ownership of certification programs including planning, documentation, and coordinating communications with authorities; initiate improvements in requirement management and regulatory interactions.
• Within one year, successfully lead key certification milestones for Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval, build enduring partnerships with regulators and industry collaborators, mentor junior certification engineers, and contribute strategically to certification approaches for new aircraft platforms and markets.

Candidate Profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Systems, Materials Engineering, or related disciplines.
• A minimum of five years' experience in stringent, regulated technical sectors such as aerospace, medical devices, or automotive, including at least two years focused on aircraft or drone certification processes (preferably STCs, Type Certificates, or major modifications).
• Proficient knowledge of FAA 14 CFR Parts 21 and 25 or equivalent regulations, along with standards like DO-160 and ARP5412.
• Demonstrated experience engaging directly with aviation authorities and DERs.
• Strong systems engineering approach combined with expertise in requirements management.
• Ability to excel in fast-paced, ambiguous startup settings and thrive in building novel solutions.

Why MAKO?

Meaningful challenges: Aviation remains a major consumer of fuel and contributor to CO2 emissions despite the urgent need to decarbonize. MAKO’s Flightfilm offers a revolutionary, cost-effective solution comparable to jet engines but far more accessible and environmentally impactful.

Integrated technology exposure: As a vertically integrated company, you will experience multifaceted exposure across materials science, optics, fluid dynamics, and manufacturing disciplines while working on products actively implemented on aircraft.

Core values: MAKO’s culture emphasizes our values: ‘Lift over Drag,’ ‘Active Transparency,’ and ‘Change the Boundary Conditions,’ which foster clarity, effective communication, and decisive action even in uncertain conditions.

Employee benefits: Flexible working arrangements support work-life balance. Our conveniently located Sydney office offers easy public transport access and is near dining options. Regular team social events encourage camaraderie as the company expands. Additionally, employees benefit from comprehensive support programs including an Employee Assistance Program offering confidential counseling for employees and their families.

Application Process

Submit a resume accompanied by a brief cover letter. The selection process involves an initial screening call, hiring manager interview, a take-home case study with feedback, and a final panel interview with company leadership. The entire recruitment timeline typically spans four to five weeks, with timely updates throughout.

Equal Opportunity Statement

MAKO is committed to diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. We encourage candidates close to the qualification criteria to apply and share their unique qualifications and motivations.