Join Thales as an Airworthiness Certification Manager in Bordeaux (33000) – Engineering & Technical Roles

Bordeaux, France — May 26, 2026 — In the heart of southwestern France, where aerospace innovation meets rigorous engineering standards, Thales—a global leader in defense and aerospace technologies—has opened a critical role for an Airworthiness Certification Manager in Bordeaux, Gironde (33000). This position, situated within Thales’ engineering and technical divisions, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that aircraft, drones, and aerospace systems meet the strictest safety and regulatory requirements before entering service. For professionals with a background in aviation, aerospace engineering, or regulatory compliance, this opportunity represents a chance to shape the future of airworthiness certification in one of Europe’s most dynamic aerospace hubs.

The aerospace industry is undergoing a period of unprecedented transformation, driven by advancements in electric propulsion, autonomous systems, and sustainable aviation. The role of an Airworthiness Certification Manager is more critical than ever. These specialists work at the intersection of engineering, regulatory science, and safety assurance, ensuring that innovations—from next-generation commercial aircraft to military drones—comply with international standards set by organizations like the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Bordeaux, with its proximity to major aerospace players and research institutions, has emerged as a strategic location for such roles, offering a blend of technical expertise and regulatory oversight.

Thales, a company with deep roots in both defense and civil aerospace, has long been a key player in airworthiness certification. Its Bordeaux facility, part of the broader Thales Group, specializes in systems that underpin aircraft safety, from avionics to radar and communication technologies. The Airworthiness Certification Manager in this location would oversee the certification process for Thales-developed systems, collaborating with certification authorities, aircraft manufacturers, and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with evolving standards. This role is not just about paperwork; it’s about safeguarding lives by embedding rigorous testing, documentation, and risk assessment into every phase of aerospace development.

The Role: Ensuring Safety in the Skies

An Airworthiness Certification Manager at Thales is responsible for leading the certification process for aerospace products, ensuring they meet the stringent requirements of aviation authorities. This role typically involves:

• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating the complex landscape of aviation regulations, including EASA’s Certification Specifications (CS) and FAA’s Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR). These standards dictate everything from structural integrity to software reliability in aerospace systems.
• Technical Leadership: Collaborating with engineers, test pilots, and quality assurance teams to address certification challenges. For example, a manager might oversee the certification of a new avionics system for a commercial aircraft, ensuring it meets EASA’s DO-178C standards for software.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Acting as a bridge between Thales, aircraft manufacturers (such as Airbus, which has a major presence in Toulouse, just 1.5 hours from Bordeaux), and certification authorities. This often involves presenting technical data, resolving discrepancies, and negotiating certification timelines.
• Risk Management: Identifying potential safety risks early in the development cycle and working with cross-functional teams to mitigate them. For instance, a certification manager might lead a failure-mode analysis for a drone’s autonomous flight system before submission to EASA.

Given the global nature of aerospace certification, fluency in English is essential, and proficiency in French is advantageous, especially in a region like Bordeaux where local authorities and industry partners operate primarily in French. The role also demands a deep understanding of international aviation law, as well as the ability to interpret and apply regulatory updates promptly.

Why Bordeaux? The Aerospace Ecosystem of Southwest France

Bordeaux’s rise as an aerospace hub is no accident. The region benefits from its proximity to Toulouse—the home of Airbus and a concentration of aerospace research institutions—and its own growing cluster of aerospace companies, including Thales, Latécoère, and startups specializing in drones and electric aviation. The Aerospace Valley, a consortium of aerospace actors in the region, has been instrumental in fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and research centers like ISAE-SUPAERO and University of Bordeaux.

Thales’ Bordeaux facility, while not as large as its sites in Paris or Toulouse, plays a critical role in developing and certifying systems for military and civil aviation. For example, Thales contributes to the certification of radar systems for Airbus aircraft and electronic warfare suites for defense programs. The city’s aerospace ecosystem also includes:

• Dassault Aviation’s Bordeaux site: Focused on business aviation and unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
• CNES (French Space Agency): Operates a satellite tracking station near Bordeaux, reinforcing the region’s expertise in aerospace technologies.
• Startups and SMEs: Specializing in drone technology, electric propulsion, and sustainable aviation, many of which collaborate with Thales on certification projects.

For professionals in this field, Bordeaux offers a high quality of life, with easy access to both urban amenities and the natural beauty of the Dordogne region. The city’s international airport, Bordeaux-Mérignac, further enhances its connectivity, making it an attractive base for aerospace professionals working on global projects.

Qualifications and Career Pathways

While the original job listing provided limited details, industry standards suggest that an Airworthiness Certification Manager at Thales would typically require:

• A master’s degree or PhD in aerospace engineering, aviation safety, or a related field. Programs like those offered by ISAE-SUPAERO or Cranfield University are highly regarded in this sector.
• 5–10 years of experience in airworthiness certification, regulatory affairs, or aerospace engineering, with a proven track record in leading certification projects.
• Certifications: While not always mandatory, certifications such as SAE’s Airworthiness Certification Engineer (ACE) or EASA Part-66 licenses for specific aircraft systems can be advantageous.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in regulatory databases (e.g., EASA’s Regulatory Data Service), familiarity with DO-178C, ARP4754, and ARP4761 standards, and experience with certification documentation tools.
• Soft Skills: Strong communication skills to interface with regulators, engineers, and management, as well as project management experience to meet certification deadlines.

The career pathway for an Airworthiness Certification Manager often begins with roles in engineering, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance within aerospace companies. Many professionals in this field start as certification engineers or compliance officers before advancing to management roles. Thales, in particular, is known for investing in the professional development of its employees, offering training programs in regulatory affairs and airworthiness certification.

Challenges and Opportunities in Airworthiness Certification

The field of airworthiness certification is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and shifting regulatory landscapes. Key trends shaping the role today include:

• Autonomous Systems: The rise of autonomous aircraft and drones requires new certification frameworks. EASA and the FAA are developing guidelines for unmanned aerial systems (UAS), creating opportunities for certification managers with expertise in AI and autonomy.
• Sustainable Aviation: As the industry moves toward electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft, certification managers must navigate novel challenges in energy storage, propulsion, and environmental impact assessments.
• Global Harmonization: While EASA and FAA standards are largely aligned, differences in interpretation can create hurdles. Certification managers must stay abreast of international developments, such as the ICAO’s global airworthiness framework.
• Cybersecurity: As aerospace systems become more connected, certification managers must ensure that software and hardware meet cybersecurity standards, such as those outlined in EASA’s cybersecurity requirements.

For professionals in this field, staying ahead of these trends is crucial. Thales, as a leader in aerospace technologies, provides its certification managers with access to cutting-edge training and resources to address these challenges. The role is not just about adhering to existing standards but also about shaping the future of airworthiness certification in an era of rapid innovation.

How to Prepare for a Career in Airworthiness Certification

For aspiring aerospace professionals, breaking into airworthiness certification requires a combination of education, experience, and networking. Here are key steps to consider:

1. Education: Pursue a degree in aerospace engineering, aviation safety, or a related field. Specialized programs in airworthiness certification, such as those offered by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University or Cranfield University, can provide targeted training.
2. Internships and Entry-Level Roles: Gain experience through internships with aerospace companies, regulatory bodies, or consulting firms specializing in aviation safety. Roles in quality assurance, regulatory compliance, or engineering provide valuable foundational knowledge.
3. Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications, such as EASA Part-66 licenses or SAE’s ACE certification, to demonstrate expertise in airworthiness standards.
4. Networking: Engage with professional organizations like the SAE International or the International Airworthiness Society (IASA). Attend conferences, such as the Paris Air Show, to connect with industry leaders and learn about emerging trends.
5. Stay Informed: Follow updates from EASA, FAA, and ICAO. Subscribe to industry publications like Aviation Week or FlightGlobal to stay current on regulatory changes and technological advancements.

The Future: What’s Next for Airworthiness Certification?

Looking ahead, the role of an Airworthiness Certification Manager will continue to evolve, shaped by technological advancements and regulatory innovations. Key areas to watch include:

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI is being integrated into certification processes to streamline data analysis and risk assessment. For example, machine learning algorithms may help predict potential certification issues early in the design phase.
• Digital Certification: The shift toward digital twins and virtual certification environments could reduce the time and cost associated with physical testing. Thales is already exploring these technologies in collaboration with EASA.
• Expanded Global Collaboration: As aerospace becomes more globalized, certification managers will need to navigate an increasingly interconnected regulatory landscape, with greater emphasis on mutual recognition agreements between aviation authorities.
• Focus on Sustainability: Certification processes will increasingly incorporate environmental considerations, such as carbon emissions and noise reduction, as part of the airworthiness assessment.

For those entering the field, this dynamic environment presents both challenges and opportunities. The Airworthiness Certification Manager role at Thales in Bordeaux is not just a job—it’s a chance to be at the forefront of shaping the future of aviation safety in Europe and beyond.

Key Takeaways

• The Airworthiness Certification Manager role at Thales in Bordeaux is pivotal in ensuring aerospace systems meet global safety standards, with a focus on innovation in autonomous systems, sustainable aviation, and cybersecurity.
• Bordeaux’s aerospace ecosystem, supported by institutions like Aerospace Valley and ISAE-SUPAERO, offers a strategic location for certification professionals.
• Qualifications typically include advanced degrees in aerospace engineering, regulatory experience, and certifications like EASA Part-66 or SAE’s ACE.
• The role demands strong technical, communication, and project management skills to navigate complex certification processes and stakeholder collaborations.
• Future trends in AI, digital certification, and sustainability will redefine the field, creating new opportunities for certification managers to innovate.

The next checkpoint for updates on Thales’ aerospace certification roles will likely be tied to the release of the company’s annual recruitment calendar, which typically aligns with industry events like the Paris Air Show in June 2026. In the meantime, professionals interested in this field are encouraged to monitor EASA and FAA announcements for regulatory updates that may impact certification requirements.

For those passionate about aviation safety and eager to contribute to the future of aerospace, the Airworthiness Certification Manager role at Thales in Bordeaux represents a compelling opportunity. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring engineer, this position offers a chance to make a tangible impact on the safety and innovation of the skies.

Have insights or experiences in airworthiness certification? Share your thoughts in the comments below or connect with us on World Today Journal to discuss the future of aviation safety.