STC
STC stands for Supplemental Type Certificate, which is an official approval to modify an aircraft from its original design. Think of it like getting official permission to upgrade or change parts of an airplane. When someone mentions STC in their resume, they're typically talking about their experience with either getting these approvals or working on aircraft modifications that required these certificates. It's similar to getting approval for home renovations, but for aircraft, the process is much more strict because of safety requirements. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issues these certificates in the United States, while other countries have their own aviation authorities that issue similar approvals.
Examples in Resumes
Led team in obtaining STC approval for passenger-to-cargo aircraft conversion
Managed multiple STC projects for aircraft interior modifications
Developed documentation and engineering drawings for STC applications
Successfully processed 15 Supplemental Type Certificate applications with the FAA
Typical job title: "STC Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find STC Engineers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: Can you describe a complex STC project you managed and what challenges you encountered?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should include experience leading major aircraft modification projects, handling complications with regulatory authorities, managing timelines and budgets, and coordinating between engineering teams and clients.
Q: How do you ensure compliance with different international aviation authorities when pursuing STCs?
Expected Answer: The candidate should demonstrate knowledge of various aviation authorities (FAA, EASA, etc.), understanding of different requirements, and experience in managing multiple certification processes simultaneously.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What documentation is typically required for an STC application?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list main documents like engineering drawings, test reports, compliance checklists, and explain the basic application process and timeline.
Q: How do you handle changes to an existing STC?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of amending STCs, when new applications are needed versus modifications to existing ones, and the documentation required.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is an STC and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that it's an approval for aircraft modifications and why it's necessary for safety and regulatory compliance.
Q: What's the difference between a TSO and an STC?
Expected Answer: Should explain that TSO (Technical Standard Order) is for individual parts/components while STC is for modifications to the overall aircraft design.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of aviation regulations
- Assisting with STC documentation
- Reading and understanding engineering drawings
- Supporting certification projects
Mid (2-5 years)
- Managing simple STC projects
- Preparing certification documentation
- Coordinating with aviation authorities
- Understanding modification requirements
Senior (5+ years)
- Leading complex modification projects
- Managing multiple STC applications
- International certification experience
- Team leadership and client management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic aviation regulations
- Lack of experience with technical documentation
- No understanding of aircraft systems
- Poor communication skills with regulatory authorities
- No experience with certification processes
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