Lead Product Design Engineer in Magnolia, Texas at Alberth Aviation Ltd

About The Company:

ALBERTH AVIATION, LTD. is an aviation and aerospace company based in Magnolia, Texas. Founded in 1996, Alberth Aviation has become a trusted leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and specialized aircraft tooling. With a focus on innovation and precision engineering, our products are crafted to enhance the efficiency and safety of ground support and maintenance operations for aviation professionals worldwide. From corporate flight departments to FBOs, military units, airlines, and aviation schools, Alberth Aviation’s solutions are trusted across a wide range of industries.

In addition to ground support and maintenance solutions, Alberth Aviation offers a comprehensive selection of aircraft rotables and consumables for both exchange and outright sale. Our inventory includes critical parts such as wheels, brakes, starters, generators, and more. With over 400 business jet wheels in stock, we are fully equipped to support any business jet in operation.

In February 2024, Alberth Aviation partnered with River Birch Partners (https://www.riverbirch-partners.com/), a private investment firm that specializes in assisting high-quality, lower middle-market companies and management teams in accelerating strategic growth.

As we continue to expand our product portfolio, we are seeking an experienced Lead Product Design Engineer to help bring innovative ideas from concept to production.

Position Summary: Lead Product Design Engineer – Aviation Ground Support Equipment & Tooling

The Product Design Engineer is responsible for the complete development of the lifecycle of new aircraft ground support equipment and specialized maintenance tooling. This position will transform ideas into production-ready products by creating detailed engineering drawings, developing prototypes, coordinating with manufacturing partners, and managing projects through final production.

The ideal candidate is an innovative mechanical designer who enjoys solving real-world engineering challenges and working closely with customers, vendors, and production partners to deliver high-quality products.

Key Responsibilities

• Design new aircraft ground support equipment and specialized maintenance tooling using 3D CAD software.
• Develop engineering drawings, assemblies, BOMs, and manufacturing documentation.
• Create concepts from customer feedback, field observations, and internal product ideas.
• Manage product development projects from initial concept through production release.
• Build and evaluate prototypes, incorporating testing and customer feedback into final designs.
• Coordinate with machine shops, fabrication partners, and manufacturing vendors to produce prototype and production components.
• Select materials, finishes, bearings, fasteners, hydraulics, electrical components, and other purchased parts.
• Review vendor manufacturing methods to improve product quality and reduce production costs.
• Conduct fit, function, and durability testing to validate product performance.
• Develop assembly instructions, user manuals, and product documentation.
• Work closely with Sales and Operations to prioritize new product opportunities.
• Support continuous improvement efforts for existing product lines.
• Assist with product costing and design-for-manufacturing initiatives.
• Ensure products comply with applicable industry standards and safety requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Design, or related field preferred.
• 3+ years of mechanical product design experience.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, Fusion 360, or similar 3D CAD software.
• Experience creating detailed manufacturing drawings and GD&T.
• Strong understanding of machining, welding, fabrication, sheet metal, and assembly processes.
• Experience managing outside manufacturing vendors.
• Familiarity with prototype development and product testing.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing industrial equipment or mechanical systems.
• Aviation maintenance or aerospace manufacturing experience.
• Knowledge of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems.
• Experience with CNC machining and manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with FEA or engineering simulation software.
• Experience with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems.
• Knowledge of OSHA and industrial safety standards.

What You'll Design - This role will develop products like:

• Aircraft jacks and lifting equipment
• Battery lifts and handling equipment
• Nitrogen and oxygen servicing carts
• Hydraulic servicing equipment
• Aircraft tow bars and adapters
• Specialized maintenance tooling
• Engine and component handling equipment
• Custom tooling for business jet operators and maintenance facilities

What Success Looks Like - Within your first year, you will:

• Successfully launch multiple new products from concept through production.
• Reduce development timelines by effectively managing prototype iterations.
• Improve manufacturability and cost efficiency across existing product lines.
• Build strong partnerships with manufacturing vendors.
• Help expand Alberth Aviation's portfolio of innovative GSE and aircraft maintenance solutions.