A&P Mechanic

Job Description

Job Description

Helicopter R&D Technician (A&P Technician)

Position Summary

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) mechanic with Helicopter / UAV R&D experience to support the development, modification, testing, and maintenance of rotary-wing aircraft systems and prototype platforms. This role works closely with aerospace engineers, test pilots, and manufacturing teams to build, troubleshoot, and evaluate experimental helicopter systems and components.

The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, hands-on helicopter maintenance experience, and the ability to work in a fast-paced research and development environment involving prototype aircraft and emerging technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Assemble, modify, maintain, and repair prototype and production helicopter systems
• Perform inspections, troubleshooting, and diagnostics on airframe, engine, drivetrain, hydraulic, avionics, and rotor systems
• Support flight-test operations including pre-flight, post-flight, and ground-test activities.
• Install and maintain test instrumentation, sensors, wiring harnesses, and data acquisition equipment
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, service manuals, and technical data
• Collaborate with engineering teams to validate design changes and implement corrective actions
• Fabricate brackets, fittings, and prototype components as required
• Document maintenance activities, test results, discrepancies, and configuration changes
• Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, company procedures, and safety standards
• Assist with root-cause investigations and failure analysis
• Support rapid prototyping and experimental aircraft integration projects

Required Qualifications

• FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certificate
• 3+ years of helicopter maintenance or rotary-wing technical experience
• Experience working on turbine helicopter platforms
• Strong understanding of helicopter mechanical systems and flight controls
• Ability to use precision measuring tools and standard aircraft maintenance equipment
• Ability to read technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and maintenance manuals
• Familiarity with FAA regulations and airworthiness standards
• Ability to work flexible hours in support of flight-test schedules
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting experimental, prototype, or R&D aircraft programs
• Familiarity with composite structures and advanced materials
• Avionics integration or electrical troubleshooting experience
• Military rotary-wing maintenance background
• Experience with vibration analysis, instrumentation, or telemetry systems
• Sheet metal or fabrication skills
• Knowledge of CAD systems and the engineering change processes including drafting standards and drawing interpretation
• Working knowledge and experience in quality inspections and related tools

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to work in hangars, test facilities, and outdoor flight-test environments
• Ability to climb ladders and access confined aircraft areas
• Manual dexterity for precision mechanical work

Work Environment

• Aircraft hangar and clean room environments
• Exposure to loud noise, aviation fuels, lubricants, and moving mechanical systems
• Occasional travel will be required for testing or field support