Design the Future of Flight – Join Us as a Payload Systems Design Engineer

PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with an industry-leading aviation innovator to find an experienced Payload Systems Design Engineer ready to shape the passenger experience and aircraft functionality from the inside out. If you’re passionate about engineering excellence and want your work to be seen—and experienced—every time an aircraft takes off, this is your opportunity.

About the Role

As a Payload Systems Design Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in designing, integrating, and delivering aircraft interior and payload systems that define both functionality and passenger experience. From cabin interiors and cargo systems to lighting and livery, your work will directly influence how airlines operate and represent their brand. This is a dynamic, full lifecycle engineering role where innovation meets real-world aviation impact.

What You’ll Do

• Develop, integrate, and document payload system requirements to drive design solutions

• Create and modify 3D CAD models and engineering designs for interiors and structural payload systems

• Lead system validation and verification through testing and analysis

• Collaborate with suppliers and manage design, production, and test activities to achieve program goals

• Support certification processes and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements

• Engage directly with airlines, suppliers, and regulatory bodies to deliver optimized solutions

• Contribute to production integration, ensuring designs are manufacturable and efficient

• Support product lifecycle stages, including configuration development, certification, and production

• Partner cross-functionally with engineering teams, program management, and leadership to implement solutions

• Explore and support emerging technologies for next-generation aircraft designs

What You Bring

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil, Aeronautical, Materials Science, or related)

• 9+ years of engineering experience in design, integration, and/or certification (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

• Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals and product lifecycle processes

• Ability to work independently with minimal direction in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of FAA Title 14 Part 25 and/or EASA regulations

• Experience with aircraft interiors, including monuments (lavatories, galleys), lighting, cargo systems, or livery

• Background in design for manufacturing and production integration

• Experience in program/project management and leading complex initiatives

• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage supplier relationships

• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills

• Excellent communication skills across technical and non-technical audiences

• Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning and professional growth

Why Join Us

At PDS Tech Commercial, we connect top engineering talent with groundbreaking aviation programs. In this role, you’ll collaborate with a leading aerospace organization at the forefront of innovation and design.

What’s in it for you:

• Competitive pay starting at $75.25/hour

• Structured Monday–Friday, 8AM–4PM schedule

• Opportunity to work on high-visibility aircraft interior and payload systems

• Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and full product lifecycle engineering

• A collaborative, fast-paced environment that values creativity and expertise

• The chance to make a tangible impact on the future of air travel and passenger experience

Your Work Matters Here

The Payloads organization is responsible for everything passengers see—and much they don’t—when they fly. From cabin comfort to safety systems and cargo operations, your contributions will help airlines deliver on performance, brand identity, and customer satisfaction.

Ready to Shape the Passenger Experience?

If you’re ready to bring your engineering expertise to a role that blends innovation, collaboration, and real-world impact, we want to hear from you.

Apply today and help design the future of aviation.

This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.                                               

• The California Fair Chance Act
• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.