Careers
Why Kawak Aviation?
We are a team of professionals, creators, and engineers inspired by transforming clients’ businesses through the products and services we provide. Our mission is to provide the aviation industry and our customers with intelligent innovation, industry leading performance, and the safest mission equipment solutions possible. Our teams brainstorm, research, test, and execute to achieve our mission. At the heart of everything we do is our unrelenting drive to develop the solutions and the fundamental relationships necessary to achieve our mission and succeed. It fuels our creativity. It’s how we solve business problems. It’s the reason we love rolling up our sleeves, getting to work and it’s why we’re successful. Our roots are in engineering great solutions to problems, our passion is contagious and our people are simply the best. Sound like fun? Join the family.
Location
Benefits
Healthcare
Kawak Aviation offers medical & dental coverage and pays for 100% of the insurance costs for its employees.
Vacation Time
As well as paid holidays throughout the year we encourage our employees to take advantage of vacation benefits to rest, inspire creativity and enjoy our very own Central Oregon playground.
401(K) /Contribution Match
We offer a 4% annual income 401(k) contribution match.
Coffee
We provide a 100% coffee coverage benefit ensuring that your caffeine intake needs are met for as long as you’re a Kawak team member! Yes we’re a serious company, but we do like to have fun…and appreciate a little humor from time to time.
Open Positions
Quality Inspector
Location: Bend, Oregon
Industry: Utility Aviation | Engineering | Manufacturing
Status: Full-Time | Immediate Opening
At Kawak Aviation, we don’t just build parts, we build trust. Our aerial firefighting and mission-critical products support some of the toughest aviation operations in the world.
We’re looking for a Quality Inspector to uphold the high standards that make our mission possible.
This role is for someone who takes pride in precision, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and understands that every detail can make a difference in the sky. If you’re ready to work with a team that values quality as much as innovation, this is your chance to make an impact.
What You’ll Do
You’ll be a key player in Kawak’s quality assurance process – inspecting, documenting, and ensuring the integrity of our components from the moment they arrive to the moment they ship. You’ll collaborate with engineers, production, and supply chain to help guarantee that every part that leaves our facility is something we can proudly stand behind by performing receiving inspections, final inspections, FAI documentation, maintaining inspection documents, and assisting with our Quality Management System.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform incoming, in-process, and final inspections on parts and assemblies using tools like calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and optical comparators.
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications (including GD&T) to assess product compliance.
- Execute First Article Inspections (FAI) and prepare associated documentation per our internal standards.
- Verify incoming materials and supplier parts against purchase orders, certifications, and customer requirements.
- Identify and document non-conformances, escalating issues as needed and working closely with Production and Engineering management.
- Assist in calibration control and basic preventative maintenance of inspection equipment.
- Maintain organized and accurate inspection records and reports in accordance with our Quality Management System (QMS).
- Support internal audits and continuous improvement initiatives aimed at boosting product and process quality.
Required Skills & Experience
- 2+ years of inspection experience in an aerospace, aviation, or precision manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of quality inspection techniques, tolerance stacking, and precision measurement.
- Familiarity with manufacturing materials, fasteners, and machined components.
- Experience with GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) interpretation.
- Able to use common inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.) with confidence and accuracy.
- Computer skills, including Microsoft Office and digital documentation.
- Meticulous attention to detail, and a methodical, organized mindset.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with FAA production regulations (14 CFR Part 21), AS9100, ISO 9001, or other regulated industry standards.
- High school diploma or equivalent (additional technical training is a plus).
Benefits
- Competitive compensation based on experience and capability.
- Medical and dental coverage.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Paid time off (PTO).
- A consistent weekday schedule: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- A tight-knit team working on meaningful products that serve real-world missions.
Quality Inspector
Quality Inspector
Location: Bend, Oregon
Industry: Utility Aviation | Engineering | Manufacturing
Status: Full-Time | Immediate Opening
At Kawak Aviation, we don’t just build parts, we build trust. Our aerial firefighting and mission-critical products support some of the toughest aviation operations in the world.
We’re looking for a Quality Inspector to uphold the high standards that make our mission possible.
This role is for someone who takes pride in precision, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and understands that every detail can make a difference in the sky. If you’re ready to work with a team that values quality as much as innovation, this is your chance to make an impact.
What You’ll Do
You’ll be a key player in Kawak’s quality assurance process – inspecting, documenting, and ensuring the integrity of our components from the moment they arrive to the moment they ship. You’ll collaborate with engineers, production, and supply chain to help guarantee that every part that leaves our facility is something we can proudly stand behind by performing receiving inspections, final inspections, FAI documentation, maintaining inspection documents, and assisting with our Quality Management System.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform incoming, in-process, and final inspections on parts and assemblies using tools like calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and optical comparators.
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications (including GD&T) to assess product compliance.
- Execute First Article Inspections (FAI) and prepare associated documentation per our internal standards.
- Verify incoming materials and supplier parts against purchase orders, certifications, and customer requirements.
- Identify and document non-conformances, escalating issues as needed and working closely with Production and Engineering management.
- Assist in calibration control and basic preventative maintenance of inspection equipment.
- Maintain organized and accurate inspection records and reports in accordance with our Quality Management System (QMS).
- Support internal audits and continuous improvement initiatives aimed at boosting product and process quality.
Required Skills & Experience
- 2+ years of inspection experience in an aerospace, aviation, or precision manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of quality inspection techniques, tolerance stacking, and precision measurement.
- Familiarity with manufacturing materials, fasteners, and machined components.
- Experience with GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) interpretation.
- Able to use common inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.) with confidence and accuracy.
- Computer skills, including Microsoft Office and digital documentation.
- Meticulous attention to detail, and a methodical, organized mindset.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with FAA production regulations (14 CFR Part 21), AS9100, ISO 9001, or other regulated industry standards.
- High school diploma or equivalent (additional technical training is a plus).
Benefits
- Competitive compensation based on experience and capability.
- Medical and dental coverage.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Paid time off (PTO).
- A consistent weekday schedule: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- A tight-knit team working on meaningful products that serve real-world missions.
If we sound like the kind of company you’d like to be a part of and you believe you have the talent to contribute to our team, please get in touch or check back with us soon.
Senior Mechanical Engineer
Senior Mechanical Engineer
Location: Bend, Oregon
Industry: Utility Aviation | Engineering | Manufacturing
Status: Full-Time | Immediate Opening
About Kawak
Kawak Aviation is a focused aviation engineering and manufacturing company dedicated to supporting the world’s most critical aerial firefighting missions. We design, develop, certify, and produce mission-critical systems including aerial firefighting tanks, buckets, hydraulic systems, and aircraft components.
We operate with a small, high-performing team that values practical engineering, speed, accountability, and craftsmanship. Our work directly supports operators flying in high-risk, high-consequence environments where reliability is non-negotiable.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, development, and certification of aircraft-integrated systems. This role requires deep technical capability across mechanical systems, sheet metal structures, composite structures, and Electric/hydraulic systems, along with hands-on experience working in a certification-driven aviation environment (FAA/STC or equivalent).
This is a high-impact role responsible for turning complex mission requirements into robust, certifiable, and manufacturable products.
Key Responsibilities
Engineering & Design Leadership
- Lead mechanical design of aircraft systems and components from concept through certification and production
- Develop detailed designs for:
- Sheet metal structures (mounting systems, tanks, airframe interfaces)
- Composite components (fairings, structural elements, enclosures)
- Hydraulic systems (power systems, actuation, fluid routing, control components)
- Create and review 3D CAD models, assemblies, and production drawings
Certification & Compliance
- Drive engineering efforts within FAA certification frameworks (STC, PMA, or equivalent)
- Develop and support:
- Certification plans
- Compliance documentation
- Test plans and reports
- Interface with DERs, FAA representatives, and certification authorities as required
Analysis & Validation
- Perform or oversee:
- Structural analysis (hand calcs and FEA)
- Hydraulic system sizing and performance analysis
- Failure mode and risk assessments (FMEA)
- Support ground and flight testing, including instrumentation and data review
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with:
- Production to ensure manufacturability and efficient build processes
- Quality to ensure compliance with FAA requirements
- Program leadership to meet cost, schedule, and performance targets
- Provide technical mentorship to junior engineers
Continuous Improvement
- Drive design improvements for performance, reliability, and cost
- Contribute to standardization of engineering practices and design methodologies
- Support development of scalable product platforms
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
- 8+ years professional mechanical engineering experience
- 5+ years of relevant engineering experience in aerospace or aviation
- Proven experience designing within a certification environment (FAA, EASA, or equivalent)
- Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks preferred or equivalent)
- Strong understanding of GD&T and engineering drawing standards
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with STC programs and certification processes
- Familiarity with rotorcraft systems and external load or mission equipment
- Experience in:
- Aircraft sheet metal design
- Composite design and integration
- Hydraulic system design and components
- Experience with aerospace materials and manufacturing processes
- Working knowledge of FAA/AS9100 quality systems
- Experience supporting production and transitioning designs into manufacturing
Key Traits for Success
- Practical, hands-on engineering mindset
- High ownership and accountability
- Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, small-team environment
- Strong problem-solving skills with a bias toward execution
- Clear communicator across engineering, production, and leadership teams
Why Kawak
- Work on mission-critical systems used in real-world aerial firefighting operations
- High level of ownership and impact on product direction
- Small, agile team with minimal bureaucracy
- Opportunity to shape next-generation firefighting platforms
Benefits
- Competitive compensation based on experience and capability.
- Medical and dental coverage.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Paid time off (PTO).
- A consistent weekday schedule: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- A tight-knit team working on meaningful products that serve real-world missions.
If we sound like the kind of company you’d like to be a part of and you believe you have the talent to contribute to our team, please get in touch or check back with us soon.
Mechanical Product Designer
Mechanical Product Designer
Location: Bend, Oregon
Industry: Utility Aviation | Engineering | Manufacturing
Status: Full-Time | Immediate Opening
About Kawak
Kawak Aviation is a focused aviation engineering and manufacturing company dedicated to supporting the world’s most critical aerial firefighting missions. We design, develop, certify, and produce mission-critical systems including aerial firefighting tanks, buckets, hydraulic systems, and aircraft components.
We operate with a small, high-performing team that values practical engineering, speed, accountability, and craftsmanship. Our work directly supports operators flying in high-risk, high-consequence environments where reliability is non-negotiable.
Position Overview
Kawak Aviation is seeking a Mechanical Product Designer to drive product development for next-generation aerial firefighting systems and aircraft-integrated equipment.
You will work across a range of systems including firefighting tanks and buckets, external load systems, hydraulic power units, and aircraft interface structures, playing a key role in shaping the next generation of Kawak products.
This is a hands-on, high-impact role for someone who thrives in fast-paced design environments, enjoys solving real-world problems, and wants to see their concepts evolve into mission-critical aviation products.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop mechanical concepts for aircraft-integrated systems
- Create and manage 3D CAD models and assemblies in SolidWorks
- Rapidly iterate multiple product designs for comparison:
- Packaging and integration
- Structural layout
- System architecture
- Usability and serviceability
- Design across a range of mechanical systems, including:
- Sheet metal and machined part assemblies (mounting systems, tanks, brackets, airframe interfaces)
- Composite components (fairings, enclosures, structural elements)
- Hydraulic systems (power units, actuation, fluid routing, control components)
- Mechanical assemblies with appropriate fastening and interfaces
- Translate high-level requirements into practical, buildable design solutions
- Collaborate closely with engineering to:
- Refine and mature selected concepts
- Transition designs into manufacturable and certifiable products
- Support prototype development, testing, and design refinement
- Ensure designs are aligned with real-world operational demands, including harsh firefighting environments
What This Role Is (and Is Not)
This role IS:
- Concept-driven and iterative
- Focused on speed, clarity, and physical problem-solving
- A critical bridge between idea and engineered product
- Highly collaborative with engineering, production, and quality
This role IS NOT:
- Primarily analysis-driven (not FEA-heavy)
- Responsible for critical structural design
- A drafting-only position
Required Qualifications
- 3–8+ years of experience in mechanical design, drafting and production documentation
- Strong proficiency in SolidWorks required, Inventor a plus (due to legacy design)
- Proven ability to design mechanical assemblies and integrated systems
- Experience working with:
- Sheet metal design
- Machined component design
- Mechanical fastening and interfaces
- Basic hydraulic or fluid systems
- Graphical design (labels, placards, screen printing) a plus
- Strong spatial reasoning and 3D thinking ability
- Ability to move quickly from idea → concept → iteration
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in aerospace, aviation, or heavy equipment systems
- Familiarity with composite structures and fabrication methods
- Hands-on experience building, testing, or prototyping mechanical systems
- Understanding of design for manufacturability (DFM)
- Exposure to certification-driven environments (FAA/STC or similar)
What Success Looks Like
- Rapid development of high-quality, well-thought-out design concepts
- Clear product direction established early in development
- Strong collaboration with engineering to transition concepts into production
- Designs that balance innovation, simplicity, and real-world reliability
- Meaningful contributions to Kawak’s next generation of aerial firefighting systems
Why Kawak
Kawak Aviation is focused on becoming the trusted partner behind the world’s most critical aerial firefighting missions.
We design and deliver equipment that crews rely on when the stakes are highest. Our products are built to perform in demanding environments and are trusted by operators across the world.
This role offers the opportunity to directly shape the future of aerial firefighting systems and contribute to products that have a real impact on protecting lives, property, and communities.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation based on experience and capability.
- Medical and dental coverage.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Paid time off (PTO).
- A consistent weekday schedule: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- A tight-knit team working on meaningful products that serve real-world missions.
We're always looking for new talent!
Resume Upload
Would you like to apply for a current or future position? Fill in your Name, Email, and any additional information you think would help us in selecting you, then upload a resume for our review. Good luck!