Principal ODA Consultant

• Oversees the development and implementation of standards, policies, and procedures governing the preparation, review, and approval of Technical and Substantiating Data used by Southwest Airlines Engineering to support aircraft certification, repair, and alteration activities.
• Acts as a technical resource for Southwest Airlines Engineering on repair and alteration methods, techniques, and practices in accordance with FAA airworthiness standards, policies, and guidance. Ensures data is developed and substantiated in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, including Part 25 and Part 43.Author and manage FAA correspondence on behalf of Southwest Airlines ODA Leadership regarding ODA activities, such as design reviews, inspections, tests, and approvals
• Leads and oversees the development and delivery of training materials and programs related to certification principles, technical data development, and substantiation methods to demonstrate compliance with FAA airworthiness standards.
• Serves as a communication focal point between Southwest Airlines Engineering and the FAA ACO, ECO, and CMO offices for certification projects, design approvals, and related ODA matters.
• Oversees the technical development of engineers and serves as a mentor to Team Members, fostering expertise in certification processes, regulatory compliance, and engineering substantiation techniques.
• Ensures the Southwest Airlines Engineering Team maintains awareness of current regulatory changes, FAA Orders, policy updates, and revisions to company manuals and engineering documentation that impact certification and airworthiness.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director Technical Standards/ Lead ODA Administrator and may assume the duties of the Director Technical Standards/ Lead ODA Administrator as delegated.
• Applies engineering and certification expertise in innovative and practical ways to achieve compliance and positive business outcomes.
• Engages with OEMs, industry groups, Chief Engineer offices, and other entities to resolve design, quality, and manufacturing issues affecting Southwest Airlines and the broader aviation industry.
• May perform other job duties as directed by the Employee's Leaders.

• Expert knowledge of FAA regulations with a strong emphasis on Part 25 certification requirements, Part 43 maintenance standards, and Part 121 operational integration.
• Expert understanding of technical data development and approval processes related to aircraft repair, alteration, and certification activities.
• Working knowledge of CAD tools and design interpretation.
• Skilled in the use of common business computer applications.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence industry and regulatory discussions to ensure alignment of priorities and solutions that meet Southwest Airlines' certification and operational needs.
• Expert ability to communicate effectively with internal leadership, FAA representatives, and external stakeholders.
• Expert ability to evaluate and synthesize complex technical data for verbal and written responses to regulatory authorities.
• Ability to foster an atmosphere of trust, collaboration, and respect among peers and Team Members.
• Ability to model and promote adherence to the ethical standards and values of the organization.
• Ability to self-motivate, manage competing priorities, and meet commitments within defined timelines.
• Ability to proactively seek challenging opportunities that promote professional and technical growth within the certification and regulatory compliance disciplines.

• Required - High School Diploma or GED
• Required: Bachelor's Degree - Bachelor of Science in an ABET accredited course of study

• Innovator level experience, highest level of knowledge in Airline/OEM/MRO Engineering, aircraft certification, and regulatory requirements.

• Must be able to obtain a SIDA (Secured Identification Display Area) badge and meet all local airport requirements

• Ability to perform work duties for extended periods of time
• Ability to use a computer with sufficient speed and accuracy to meet the demands of the job
• Ability to communicate and interact with others in the English language to meet the demands of the job

• Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
• Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines

Pay & Benefits:

Competitive market salary from $163,200 per year to $170,000 per year* depending on qualifications and experience. For eligible Leadership and individual contributor roles, additional bonus opportunities are available and awarded at the discretion of the Company.

Benefits you'll love:

* Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)

* Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan, which includes a dollar-for-dollar 401(k) Company match contribution of up to 9.3% of your eligible earnings**

* Potential for annual profit-sharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan-when Southwest profits, you profit***

* Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents

* Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the very first day of employment. You'll have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan, and coverage will be retroactively available to your first day of employment.

* Explore more benefits you'll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits

*Pay amount doesn't guarantee employment for any particular period.

**401(k) Company match contributions are subject to the plan's vesting schedule. Match contributions may vary based on the position.

*** Profit-sharing contributions are subject to the Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.