LTA Research is seeking a
Senior Program Manager, Certification to lead the type certification planning and execution for a new rigid airship. This critical role will drive the strategy, coordination, and compliance efforts necessary to achieve FAA Type Certification in alignment with regulatory requirements. The successful candidate is respected in the aerospace engineering community as a highly knowledgeable and experienced technical leader who has direct, hands-on experience developing and building type-certified aircraft—from initial concept through flight testing and certification. They are passionate about guiding certification strategy while enabling innovation and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment.
Responsibilities
Develop and execute a comprehensive type certification roadmap, ensuring alignment with FAA Part 21 requirements and other applicable regulations.
Build and manage a certification organization capable of scaling through all phases of the program—concept, build, test, and certification.
Serve as the primary liaison with the FAA and other regulatory agencies, managing engagement and compliance activities.
Oversee certification program management, including compliance methods, conformity inspections, testing, and risk mitigation.
Focus on analyzing gaps in the current organization and building a roadmap to support LTA’s path to certification.
Manage cross-functional teams to meet compliance goals, working collaboratively across engineering, manufacturing, test, and flight operations.
Provide technical management and leadership through collaboration with engineering (without owning technical execution directly).
Guide the development of certification plans, means of compliance, and certification basis negotiations with the FAA.
Foster a culture that inspires high levels of performance and accountability, with a focus on safety, quality, and reliability. Qualifications
15+ years of direct, hands-on experience in the certification, design, integration, build, qualification, test, and certification in FAA or EASA projects (Part 23, 25, 27, or 29).
Proven success leading FAA Type Certification programs—preferably for novel aircraft platforms or in aerospace startup environments.
Strong experience with Systems, Safety & Reliability Engineering principles (e.g., SAE ARP 4754A/4761) and certification processes for software and hardware (DO-178C, DO-254, DO-297).
Demonstrated ability to lead aviation engineering organizations with multiple functional areas, balancing legacy system oversight with cutting-edge projects.
Proven track record of hiring, managing, and developing technically diverse teams in startup or high-growth environments.
Deep understanding of FAA regulations, certification strategies, and engagement with DERs/ODAs. Preferred Qualifications
Experience or familiarity with Compliance & Regulatory functions, including documentation and regulatory oversight across certification domains (Part 23, Part 25, Part 135, etc.).
Experience engaging and managing DERs and external consultants (e.g., structures, propulsion, avionics).
Background in Legal & Contracts, especially related to regulatory filings and certification deliverables. What We Offer!
Relocation assistance
Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)
Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
Parental leave
Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
401(k) matching up to 6%
Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
Monthly wellness stipend
Monthly cell phone stipend
Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field
Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields Compliance Requirements
Criminal background check clearance
Drug test clearance wherever applicable
The base salary range for this role is $180,000 - 220,000,which is determined based on experience, geography, and qualifications. The base salary is one component of the total compensation package, which includes a very competitive annual bonus, 401K Match, and other generous benefits. While we believe competitive compensation is a critical aspect of your decision to join us, we do hope you also spend time considering why our mission and culture are right for you.
Additional Information
This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of lighter-than-air aviation and help bring a pioneering airship to market. If you're passionate about certification and regulatory strategy in aviation, and ready to make history—let’s talk.
LTA Research & Exploration welcomes all candidates to apply including those with limited experience. We understand that candidates with a growth mindset and passion for working on the next chapter in aviation advancement can outweigh experience alone. We celebrate diverse origins and journeys and understand their importance in developing new technology. Rooted in our humanitarian mission, we want to serve the entire globe and have a team that represents those we wish to serve.
Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.
