Required Qualifications for Head of Technical Operations (Director of Maintenance)
1️ FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certificate – MANDATORY
- Must hold a valid FAA A&P License (per 14 CFR Part 65).
- Without an A&P, the candidate cannot sign off on maintenance records.
2️ Relevant Experience in Aviation Maintenance
- Part 121 (Airlines):
- At least 3-5 years of maintenance experience with large aircraft.
- Experience in continuous airworthiness maintenance programs (CAMP).
- Experience managing FAA-approved Maintenance & Repair Organizations (MROs).
- Part 135 (Charter/Commuter):
- At least 2-3 years of maintenance experience on applicable aircraft.
- Knowledge of FAA maintenance requirements & MEL management.
- Experience with on-condition and time-controlled maintenance programs.
3️ Regulatory & Compliance Knowledge
- Deep knowledge of FAA Part 121, Part 135, and Part 145 maintenance regulations.
- Understanding of Airworthiness Directives (ADs), Service Bulletins (SBs), and MEL/CDL processes.
- Ability to maintain compliance with FAA audits and inspections.
4️ Management & Leadership Experience
- Experience leading technical teams, mechanics, and maintenance planners.
- Familiarity with budgeting, contracts, and working with FAA inspectors (Principal Maintenance Inspector – PMI).
- Ability to oversee outsourced maintenance at FAA Part 145 Repair Stations.
5️ Preferred Additional Qualifications (Not Mandatory)
- FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) Certification (preferred for major repairs & alterations).
- Degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering (helps but is NOT a substitute for A&P).
- Previous experience as a Chief Inspector, Lead Mechanic, or Director of Maintenance in an airline or MRO.
- Experience implementing Safety Management Systems (SMS) and Reliability Programs.