The Lead Inspector performs all required inspections, and general visual inspections, verifies ok-to-close, reviews discrepancies for airworthiness, and performs additional duties assigned by the FAA Accountable Manager. The Lead Inspector will additionally assist technicians to ensure all paperwork and documentation is kept accurate as well as current. The incumbent supports the compliance and operational activities of the organization to meet FAA regulations. Under the guidance of senior leadership, the individual will learn to oversee and manage the repair station's adherence to regulatory standards and ensure all maintenance activities comply with FAA rules, internal policies, and safety standards. Occasionally called upon to analyze technical problems associated with product maintenance and determine causes and methods of repair. Interprets technical manuals, blueprints, schematic diagrams, and written and verbal information.
Able to provide technical assistance to Customers to ensure the proper installation and operation of Company products, including:
Training - Participates in all initial and recurrent training sessions to meet current requirements. Compliance - Assist in ensuring compliance with FAA regulations, including FAR Part 145 for repair station applicable Federal Aviation Regulations (Title 14 CFRs), Quality Procedures (QP), Company Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and all reporting requirements. Maintain knowledge of FAA updates and communicate relevant changes to the team. Help prepare for FAA audits and inspections by compiling documentation and records. Customer Service - Provides exceptional customer service to all customers, suppliers, and employees - 100% customer satisfaction. Respond to any request for inspection of this Repair Station. Ensure all incoming, hidden damage, preliminary, in-process, and final inspections are performed in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Repair Station Manuals. Support the organization in achieving safety, quality, and operational goals. Monitor maintenance and repair operations to ensure adherence to procedures and standards. Participate in Internal & External Audits. Participate in developing corrective actions for regulatory findings or customer complaints raised during any audits. Ensure records of all calibrations and checks are kept current, and calibrations are performed in accordance with the standards and procedures described in the manual. Red-tag or placard any malfunctioning or non-functioning equipment, also ensure all shelf-life items are current. Undergo training to fully understand the responsibilities of an Accountable Manager. Ensure the Bench Audits and ESD logs are complete and up to date. Ensure the Customer Requirements Book is current and administered to all CSR's handling of customer outbound orders. Assist in maintaining accurate records for maintenance activities and personnel training. Prepare reports required by the FAA or senior management and document compliance metrics. Support the implementation of employee training programs to meet regulatory requirements. Be very accurate, responsible, and tactful in dealing with a multitude of customers at all levels. Be able to transfer product knowledge and procedures into the training of support center personnel. Travel to training centers and product shows as necessary, including international. Serve as a liaison between the repair station and FAA inspectors as well as the Production and Engineering departments under supervision. Support the Repair technicians as necessary. Other duties as assigned by management
Required skills/abilities of the Lead Inspector Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form and to write routine correspondence in English. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required. Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written or oral form. Ability to anticipate and proactively solve problems. Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment Strong attention to detail and ability to interpret regulations. Familiarity with FAA regulations (e.g., FAR Part 145, Part 121)
Knowledge, Education, and Experience of the Lead Inspector 2-year college or technical school or equivalent experience with avionics training. An FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license is highly desirable, FAA Airframe license is required. Proficient in computer operations and Microsoft Office Software (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) Computer and website navigation skills required. Experience in aviation, maintenance operations, or quality assurance is a plus. Previous experience in an aviation repair station or maintenance operation is a plus.