OPT Aircraft Engineer Jobs
Aircraft Engineer jobs are strong OPT candidates: most roles require an aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering degree, which aligns directly with the specialty occupation standard USCIS uses to evaluate H-1B visa petitions. STEM OPT extensions of 24 months are widely available, giving you up to three years of authorized work in this field.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Astronics Connectivity Systems and Certification (formerly Telefonix PDT and Astronics Armstrong Aerospace) serves as the experienced, global market leader for in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) solutions for aircraft. As a systems certification provider, Astronics CSC has worked on over 100 projects for industry partners to upgrade commercial and business aircraft with new passenger power systems, IFEC navigation, communication and flight safety systems. Additionally, Astronics CSC offers proven IFEC hardware systems, flexible design platforms, high customer satisfaction, and long-term relationships with industry leaders to help make the connected aircraft a reality. The company now employs over 300 employees and is a six-time recipient of Chicago’s Best and Brightest Employers to Work For award.
This position is designated as onsite. The selected candidate must be willing and able to report to the Waukegan, IL location during scheduled work hours.
SUMMARY
The Aircraft Interior Sourcing Specialist is responsible for sourcing, qualifying, and procuring parts, materials, and services to support interior aircraft modification programs (e.g., cabin reconfigurations, refurbishments, and upgrades). This role combines strategic sourcing responsibilities which includes developing supply strategies, negotiating contracts, and managing obsolescence along with tactical purchasing duties which includes issuing purchase orders, coordinating deliveries, and maintaining accurate records.
The position works closely with Engineering, Program Management, Production, Quality, and multiple Astronics business units to ensure interior modification projects are supported with cost-effective, compliant, and on-time material availability.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Evaluate sourcing procedures for interior modification materials and present improvement strategies to senior management for approval.
- Develop and execute supply base and supply chain strategies for interior components (e.g., monuments, panels, lighting, wiring, PSU components, trim, hardware, cabin electronics) with OEMs, distributors, and salvage providers.
- Prepare bid analyses and recommend suppliers based on technology, certification capability, lead time, cost, and quality.
- Conduct market research on cabin/interior component suppliers and emerging technologies; create cost estimates and forecasts for upcoming modification programs.
- Lead or support obsolescence management for interior components by reviewing availability, monitoring EOL notifications, and forecasting lifetime buy requirements.
- Assist Engineering during new design and change activities to ensure component availability, manufacturability, and compliance with aviation regulations (e.g., FAA/EASA, burn and flammability, interior material standards).
- Negotiate strategic agreements with key suppliers (NDAs, long-term agreements, pricing, terms and conditions, service levels, inventory strategies, and consignment/VMI where appropriate).
- Estimate risks (supply continuity, obsolescence, capacity, single-source exposure) and apply risk-minimizing techniques such as dual sourcing, safety stock strategies, or alternate parts.
- Issue and manage purchase orders to support manufacturing, engineering, and modification program material requirements.
- Manage assigned suppliers and commodities to ensure ongoing supply, appropriate/competitive pricing, and adherence to schedule.
- Take actions needed to assure on-time supplier delivery of required goods, proactively resolving issues such as late deliveries, shortages, and quality problems.
- Investigate, develop, and obtain quotations from suppliers to ensure best total cost/value (price, quality, lead time, logistics, and lifecycle) for assigned commodities.
- Maintain efficient records, including purchase orders, supplier correspondence, pricing files, and program-specific sourcing documentation.
- Prepare and maintain spreadsheets and reporting for inventory status, open orders, supplier performance, cost savings, and program milestones.
- Support new project/program procurement activities, including RFQs, bill of material (BOM) reviews, and material readiness for modification lines or kits.
- Evaluate market conditions (pricing, lead times, capacity constraints) and recommend alternate courses of action, including alternate suppliers or materials.
- Advise management and program teams of changes in material availability, prices, market trends, and sourcing risks.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
Required:
- Bachelor’s Degree or minimum of five years procurement experience
- Minimum of five years experience with MRP or ERP systems
- Experience sourcing Airbus and Boeing interior cabin components
Preferred:
- Experience with Epicor, Intuitive, or Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems
COMPETENCIES
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
- Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs work flows and procedures. Able to parse large amounts of data and distinguishes the pieces with large impact.
- Customer Service - Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments.
- Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions.
- Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Able to read and interpret written information.
- Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully.
- Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
- Judgment - Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions. Maintains Confidentiality.
- Motivation - Sets and achieves challenging goals.
- Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks.
- Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Monitors own work to ensure quality.
- Adaptability - Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
- Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent.
- Dependability - Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals.
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
COMPUTER SKILLS
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have intermediate PC skills and knowledge of Internet software and Microsoft Office applications.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Personal Protective Equipment may be required when working in designated areas. The noise level in the work environment is moderate.
An offer of employment is contingent on successfully passing a drug test and background check, and applicants who do not successfully pass both the drug test and background check will not be considered for employment.
The salary range specified is applicable to positions within the State of Illinois and reflects various factors considered in compensation decisions. These factors include, but are not limited to, individual skill sets, experience, training, licensure, certifications, and the specific needs of our business and organization. At Astronics CSC, it is uncommon for new hires to receive an offer at or near the top end of the range for their role. Compensation decisions are made based on the unique facts and circumstances of each candidate. The current estimated yearly salary range for this position is $75,000 to $85,000 per year. In addition, you will be eligible for our Quarterly Incentive compensation bonus. Astronics offers a competitive salary, along with opportunities for career growth.
Astronics CSC provides a comprehensive benefits package available to full-time employees, with part-time employees potentially eligible for these benefits on a pro-rated basis.
- Stay Healthy – Health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, FSA, HSA, as well as voluntary life/AD&D, voluntary critical illness, accident prevention and hospital indemnity.
- Save for the Future – 401K, Profit Sharing & Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- The Astronics Corporation Profit Sharing/401(k) Plan is a “safe harbor” plan. Under the plan, Astronics has committed to contribute 3% of your eligible wages, with the ability to do an annual discretionary adder on top.
- Find Balance – Employee Assistance Program & Wellness Program
- Time for You – Generous Paid Time Off (PTOS), Volunteer Time Off Program (VTO), Paid Holidays and Paid Parental Leave.
- Professional Growth - Tuition Reimbursement Program
ACCOMMODATION REQUEST
Astronics CSC is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please e-mail CSC-HR-All@astronics.com or call: 847-244-4500. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
This position may involve access to items subject to U.S. export-control laws. Employment is contingent upon the employee’s authorization to access such items under applicable law. The company does not guarantee and is under no obligation to seek such authorization if it would be necessary.
INTRODUCTION
Astronics Connectivity Systems and Certification (formerly Telefonix PDT and Astronics Armstrong Aerospace) serves as the experienced, global market leader for in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) solutions for aircraft. As a systems certification provider, Astronics CSC has worked on over 100 projects for industry partners to upgrade commercial and business aircraft with new passenger power systems, IFEC navigation, communication and flight safety systems. Additionally, Astronics CSC offers proven IFEC hardware systems, flexible design platforms, high customer satisfaction, and long-term relationships with industry leaders to help make the connected aircraft a reality. The company now employs over 300 employees and is a six-time recipient of Chicago’s Best and Brightest Employers to Work For award.
This position is designated as onsite. The selected candidate must be willing and able to report to the Waukegan, IL location during scheduled work hours.
SUMMARY
The Aircraft Interior Sourcing Specialist is responsible for sourcing, qualifying, and procuring parts, materials, and services to support interior aircraft modification programs (e.g., cabin reconfigurations, refurbishments, and upgrades). This role combines strategic sourcing responsibilities which includes developing supply strategies, negotiating contracts, and managing obsolescence along with tactical purchasing duties which includes issuing purchase orders, coordinating deliveries, and maintaining accurate records.
The position works closely with Engineering, Program Management, Production, Quality, and multiple Astronics business units to ensure interior modification projects are supported with cost-effective, compliant, and on-time material availability.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Evaluate sourcing procedures for interior modification materials and present improvement strategies to senior management for approval.
- Develop and execute supply base and supply chain strategies for interior components (e.g., monuments, panels, lighting, wiring, PSU components, trim, hardware, cabin electronics) with OEMs, distributors, and salvage providers.
- Prepare bid analyses and recommend suppliers based on technology, certification capability, lead time, cost, and quality.
- Conduct market research on cabin/interior component suppliers and emerging technologies; create cost estimates and forecasts for upcoming modification programs.
- Lead or support obsolescence management for interior components by reviewing availability, monitoring EOL notifications, and forecasting lifetime buy requirements.
- Assist Engineering during new design and change activities to ensure component availability, manufacturability, and compliance with aviation regulations (e.g., FAA/EASA, burn and flammability, interior material standards).
- Negotiate strategic agreements with key suppliers (NDAs, long-term agreements, pricing, terms and conditions, service levels, inventory strategies, and consignment/VMI where appropriate).
- Estimate risks (supply continuity, obsolescence, capacity, single-source exposure) and apply risk-minimizing techniques such as dual sourcing, safety stock strategies, or alternate parts.
- Issue and manage purchase orders to support manufacturing, engineering, and modification program material requirements.
- Manage assigned suppliers and commodities to ensure ongoing supply, appropriate/competitive pricing, and adherence to schedule.
- Take actions needed to assure on-time supplier delivery of required goods, proactively resolving issues such as late deliveries, shortages, and quality problems.
- Investigate, develop, and obtain quotations from suppliers to ensure best total cost/value (price, quality, lead time, logistics, and lifecycle) for assigned commodities.
- Maintain efficient records, including purchase orders, supplier correspondence, pricing files, and program-specific sourcing documentation.
- Prepare and maintain spreadsheets and reporting for inventory status, open orders, supplier performance, cost savings, and program milestones.
- Support new project/program procurement activities, including RFQs, bill of material (BOM) reviews, and material readiness for modification lines or kits.
- Evaluate market conditions (pricing, lead times, capacity constraints) and recommend alternate courses of action, including alternate suppliers or materials.
- Advise management and program teams of changes in material availability, prices, market trends, and sourcing risks.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
Required:
- Bachelor’s Degree or minimum of five years procurement experience
- Minimum of five years experience with MRP or ERP systems
- Experience sourcing Airbus and Boeing interior cabin components
Preferred:
- Experience with Epicor, Intuitive, or Microsoft Dynamics ERP systems
COMPETENCIES
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
- Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs work flows and procedures. Able to parse large amounts of data and distinguishes the pieces with large impact.
- Customer Service - Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments.
- Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions.
- Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Able to read and interpret written information.
- Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully.
- Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
- Judgment - Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions. Maintains Confidentiality.
- Motivation - Sets and achieves challenging goals.
- Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks.
- Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Monitors own work to ensure quality.
- Adaptability - Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
- Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent.
- Dependability - Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals.
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
COMPUTER SKILLS
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have intermediate PC skills and knowledge of Internet software and Microsoft Office applications.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Personal Protective Equipment may be required when working in designated areas. The noise level in the work environment is moderate.
An offer of employment is contingent on successfully passing a drug test and background check, and applicants who do not successfully pass both the drug test and background check will not be considered for employment.
The salary range specified is applicable to positions within the State of Illinois and reflects various factors considered in compensation decisions. These factors include, but are not limited to, individual skill sets, experience, training, licensure, certifications, and the specific needs of our business and organization. At Astronics CSC, it is uncommon for new hires to receive an offer at or near the top end of the range for their role. Compensation decisions are made based on the unique facts and circumstances of each candidate. The current estimated yearly salary range for this position is $75,000 to $85,000 per year. In addition, you will be eligible for our Quarterly Incentive compensation bonus. Astronics offers a competitive salary, along with opportunities for career growth.
Astronics CSC provides a comprehensive benefits package available to full-time employees, with part-time employees potentially eligible for these benefits on a pro-rated basis.
- Stay Healthy – Health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, FSA, HSA, as well as voluntary life/AD&D, voluntary critical illness, accident prevention and hospital indemnity.
- Save for the Future – 401K, Profit Sharing & Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- The Astronics Corporation Profit Sharing/401(k) Plan is a “safe harbor” plan. Under the plan, Astronics has committed to contribute 3% of your eligible wages, with the ability to do an annual discretionary adder on top.
- Find Balance – Employee Assistance Program & Wellness Program
- Time for You – Generous Paid Time Off (PTOS), Volunteer Time Off Program (VTO), Paid Holidays and Paid Parental Leave.
- Professional Growth - Tuition Reimbursement Program
ACCOMMODATION REQUEST
Astronics CSC is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please e-mail CSC-HR-All@astronics.com or call: 847-244-4500. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
This position may involve access to items subject to U.S. export-control laws. Employment is contingent upon the employee’s authorization to access such items under applicable law. The company does not guarantee and is under no obligation to seek such authorization if it would be necessary.
See all 44+ OPT Aircraft Engineer Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as an Aircraft Engineer
Target defense contractors and MRO operators
Large defense contractors and maintenance, repair, and overhaul operators hire aircraft engineers at scale and have established immigration programs. These employers sponsor H-1B visa and have legal teams familiar with the OPT-to-visa transition, reducing friction in the process.
Confirm your degree field matches the role
Aircraft engineer positions typically require a degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering. Before applying, verify your specific degree field maps to the job description. A mismatch can complicate your OPT authorization and future H-1B specialty occupation determination.
Apply before your OPT start date
Many aerospace employers run security clearance checks and technical assessments that take weeks. Starting your job search three to four months before your OPT begins gives you enough runway to clear pre-employment requirements without losing authorized work days.
Address security clearance requirements early
Some aircraft engineer roles require U.S. security clearances, which F-1 OPT holders are generally ineligible for. Ask recruiters about clearance requirements upfront so you focus your time on roles that are genuinely accessible to international candidates.
Use your STEM OPT extension strategically
Aerospace engineering qualifies for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you three years total. Time your H-1B registration for the cap lottery during your first OPT year so you have extension months as a buffer if your first lottery attempt is unsuccessful.
Document all engineering work for future H-1B evidence
Keep records of projects, technical reports, and certifications earned during OPT. Specific evidence of specialty occupation work, including FAA-related tasks or systems engineering projects, strengthens the employer's H-1B petition and reduces the risk of a request for evidence.
Aircraft Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as an Aircraft Engineer on F-1 OPT?
Yes, aircraft engineering roles qualify for F-1 OPT because they require a degree in a directly related field such as aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering. Your employment must be in a role that uses your degree. Aerospace engineering also qualifies for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving eligible students up to three years of work authorization.
Do aircraft engineer employers typically sponsor H-1B visas?
Many do, particularly large defense contractors, commercial aviation manufacturers, and MRO operators. These organizations hire engineers at volume and have established immigration processes. Roles requiring U.S. security clearances are an exception, as clearances are generally unavailable to F-1 visa holders. Filtering for sponsoring employers on Migrate Mate helps you focus on positions that are realistic for OPT students.
Does my aerospace engineering degree qualify for STEM OPT extension?
Aerospace engineering is on the USCIS STEM designated degree program list, so a degree in that field qualifies you for the 24-month extension if your employer is enrolled in E-Verify. Mechanical and electrical engineering degrees also qualify. You must apply for the extension before your initial 12-month OPT period expires, and you need a signed training plan from your employer.
What happens to my OPT if I switch aircraft engineering employers?
You can change employers on OPT as long as the new role is in the same field of study and you report the change to your DSO within 10 days. For STEM OPT, the new employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify and must co-sign a revised training plan. There is no grace period between jobs during STEM OPT, so timing matters.
Are there aircraft engineer roles I cannot take on OPT?
Positions requiring an active U.S. security clearance are effectively off-limits for most F-1 OPT holders, as the clearance process requires U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence in most cases. Roles that do not require a directly related engineering degree may also fail the specialty occupation test, which could affect a future H-1B petition. Review job requirements carefully before applying.