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

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