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Job Description

HEMS Fleet Engineer (Portugal) 
Reports To:  Director of Maintenance  Location:  Portugal   Department:  Engineering / Maintenance Type:  Full-time 
Overview:  The HEMS Fleet Engineer is responsible for the technical oversight, reliability, and continuous airworthiness of the helicopter fleet used in Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) operations. This role ensures the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of aircraft by managing maintenance programs, coordinating with OEMs, analysing technical data, and supporting engineering projects across the fleet as well as the coordination of Engineering staff and resources.   
Key Responsibilities: 
  • Monitor and manage the technical condition of the HEMS fleet, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, manufacturer guidelines, and company policies. 
  • Develop, implement, and optimize maintenance programs in coordination with OEMs and aviation authorities (e.g., FAA, EASA). 
  • Analyse aircraft performance, reliability trends, and technical issues to improve fleet availability and reduce downtime. 
  • Supervise and Perform and certify maintenance tasks on airframe, engine, electrical, and avionics systems 
  • Ensure all work is completed in compliance with approved maintenance data, industry standards, and company policies. 
  • Supervise non-certifying engineers, ensuring they follow proper procedures and safety regulations. 
  • Provide engineering support and solutions for defects, modifications, and repairs, including evaluation of Airworthiness Directives (ADs) and Service Bulletins (SBs). 
  • Liaise with manufacturers, suppliers, and maintenance contractors for technical issues, component reliability, and upgrades. 
  • Prepare and maintain aircraft technical records and engineering documentation in accordance with regulatory requirements. 
  • Support aircraft acquisition, fleet upgrades, and configuration management initiatives. 
  • Conduct root cause analysis for major failures and implement corrective/preventive actions. 
  • Participate in safety investigations and quality audits related to fleet maintenance and engineering functions. 
  • Serve as the technical point of contact for base maintenance teams and flight operations personnel. 
  • Accurately complete documentation and issue approved materials via the company's computer systems. 
  • Audit and Conduct aircraft inspections, troubleshooting, and defect reporting to maintain operational efficiency. 
  • Manage tooling, equipment, and resources on all company bases, ensuring they are properly utilized and accounted for. 
  • Coordinate component provisioning with the Logistics Department, ensuring the timely supply of necessary parts. 
  • Compile Safety Occurrence Reports (SORs) as required. 
  • Ensure all Engineering teams are trained and able to assist in aircraft ground handling, including movement and positioning on all bases. 
  • Ensure compliance with Health & Safety (H&S) regulations, including the use of appropriate PPE for engineering and maintenance staff on all bases. 
  • Supervise apprentices, guiding their technical development and progression within the training program. 
  • Escalate issues to management. 
  • Undertake additional engineering duties by mutual agreement 
  • Follow Company HSE regulations and procedures  
 
Qualifications and Experience: 
Required: 
  • Degree in Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent technical discipline. 
  • H145 Type rating 
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in aviation maintenance engineering, with at least 2 years in rotorcraft or HEMS operations in an international setting.  
  • Familiarity with aviation regulatory frameworks (e.g., FAA Part 135, EASA Part CAMO/Part 145). 
  • Experience with aircraft maintenance planning systems and reliability programs. 
  • Strong understanding of helicopter systems and components (e.g., Airbus H145, Bell 429, AW139, etc.). 
Preferred: 
  • Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Part 66 / A&P) is an advantage. 
  • Knowledge of SMS (Safety Management Systems) and continuing airworthiness systems. 
  • Experience with digital tools such as CAMP, RAMCO, TRAX, or similar. 
Key Competencies: 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
  • Ability to work in high-pressure, mission-critical environments. 
  • Attention to detail and commitment to safety and compliance. 
  • Proactive and solution-oriented mindset. 
  • Able to travel to operational bases and maintenance facilities as required. 
  • May require out-of-hours availability for technical support in emergency scenarios.