Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

About the RoleThis is a dynamic, multi-disciplinary (Product engineering, Aircraft Technician and Ground operations) role embedded within the Spaceplane Maintenance Team at Dawn Aerospace in Christchurch, New Zealand.

The focus is to ensure that all parts and components are efficiently manufactured and optimised for maintainability, assembly, and disassembly.

You'll also be responsible—alongside the Maintenance Manager—for ensuring all new products are supported with clear maintenance, installation, and removal instructions.

The Production Engineer will work across teams, supporting design, operations, and hands-on activities to keep our systems flight-ready and maintainable.

Product Design EngineerSupport the development of flight hardware that's practical to manufacture, service, and operate.

Responsibilities : Advise design teams on materials, processes, and toolingEnsure parts are designed with serviceability in mindFabricate and test parts, components, and jigsAssist in managing outsourced manufacturing and logisticsReview and refine technical documentationDevelop internal design standards for maintainabilityMaintain workshop equipment and ensure readiness

Skills & ExperienceExperience with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar)Knowledge of manufacturing methods (machining, composites, sheet metal, additive manufacturing)Familiarity with design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for maintainability (DFx)Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical documentationExperience developing jigs, fixtures, or ground support equipment (preferred)

Aircraft TechnicianPlay a key role in keeping the spaceplane\'s hardware flight-ready.

Responsibilities : Fit and remove components and assembliesPerform scheduled maintenance and system checksInspect parts for conformityEnforce hangar safety, cleanliness, and procedural standards

Skills & ExperiencePractical experience in fitting, assembling, and maintaining mechanical or aviation systemsUnderstanding of aircraft maintenance practices (scheduled / unscheduled)Competence with mechanical hand tools and workshop equipmentAbility to inspect parts for conformity and troubleshoot issuesExperience working under regulatory or quality standards (EASA Part 145, ISO, or equivalent is a plus)

Ground Operations & Safety CrewSupport flight campaigns and ground-based testing.

Responsibilities : Carry out propellant filling and draining during operationsPrepare and maintain the propulsion trailer for flight readinessPerform pre- and post-flight inspectionsAssist with onsite systems testing

Skills & ExperienceHands-on experience supporting test or flight operations (fuel handling, system prep, or similar)Strong focus on workplace and operational safetyComfortable following checklists and enforcing procedural complianceWillingness to support campaigns in varied environments (hangar, test site, airfield)

Minimum RequirementsHands-on mechanical or aerospace experience (aircraft, high-performance vehicles, or precision hardware)Competence with workshop tools and safe working practicesAbility to read and interpret technical drawings and manualsExperience assembling, fitting, or maintaining mechanical / structural systemsStrong focus on safety, cleanliness, and procedural complianceComfortable working in a team and following structured checklistsRelevant technical qualification (apprenticeship, trade certificate, or engineering degree) or equivalent industry experience

Nice-to-Have ExperienceCAD proficiency (SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar)Background in design for manufacturability / maintainability (DFM / DFx)Experience with composites, machining, additive manufacturing, or toolingKnowledge of aerospace maintenance practices (e.g. EASA Part 145, FAA Part 43, or similar)Prior involvement in ground or flight operations (fueling, pre-flight checks, system testing)Experience with technical documentation, manuals, or maintenance instructionsFamiliarity with quality or regulatory environments (ISO, AS9100, aerospace standards)Previous exposure to startup, R&D, or prototype development environments

We\'re a tight-knit, cross-functional team with a passion for building things that matter.

If you\'re ready to be part of a bold, hands-on engineering challenge that's changing how space is accessed—let's talk.

And even if you think you have what it takes but are unsure that you check every box, we still want to hear from you.Please also note this role involves access to controlled / secure technology.

Appointment is conditional on passing background / security vetting and, where required, obtaining any necessary export-control authorisations.

Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis with reference to clearance and licensing requirements.

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