Advance Your Career as an Aviation Safety Inspector (Powerplant)
Are you looking to transition your hands-on aviation maintenance experience into a leadership role that directly impacts national aerospace safety? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking a highly qualified Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Maintenance) to join the Midwest Certificate Management Office. This role is a critical component of the agency's mission to ensure the absolute safety and efficiency of the American aviation system.
Job Responsibilities
As a Partial Program Manager focused on Powerplants, your primary objective is to monitor and improve the maintenance programs of air carriers. Your daily duties will include:
- Technical Administration: Assessing the adequacy of organizational staffing, training, and maintenance facilities to ensure compliance with federal regulations.
- Certification: Evaluating and approving engine and APU maintenance manuals and reliability programs.
- Surveillance: Conducting regular inspections to monitor compliance and performing enforcement investigations when discrepancies are identified.
- Consultation: Providing expert technical guidance to air carrier management and testifying in formal legal proceedings when necessary.
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent criteria to be considered for this high-level position.
- Certification: You must hold a current FAA Mechanic Certificate with airframe and power plant ratings.
- Experience: You must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the FG/GS-13 level in the maintenance and repair of multi-engine aircraft (over 12,500 lbs).
- Regulatory Compliance: A clean record regarding aviation regulation violations is mandatory.
- Medical Status: You must meet physical and medical requirements, as this role involves potential travel and onsite inspections.
Comparison: Technical vs. Administrative Responsibilities
| Feature | Technical Focus | Administrative Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Core Activity | Maintenance Inspections | Program Management |
| Primary Task | Engine/APU Analysis | Manual & Record Audits |
| Outcome | Safety Verification | Regulatory Compliance |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with the responsibility of a senior inspector role. The salary range for this vacancy is $107,446 to $139,684 per year, depending on qualifications and location.
Benefits
Working for the FAA provides access to a comprehensive federal benefits suite, including:
- Robust health insurance options.
- Retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Opportunities for ongoing professional development and specialized training.
Application Tips
When applying for this role, treat your resume as a professional portfolio. Because the FAA has eliminated narrative KSA responses, you must weave your specific examples directly into your work history descriptions. Ensure you address the full scope of your experience with 14 CFR Part 121 aircraft, as this will be a primary evaluation point. Always resubmit if you update your application to ensure the latest version is the one under review.
This is more than a job; it is a commitment to the safety of every passenger and crew member in the sky. If you have the technical expertise and the drive to uphold the highest standards of aviation safety, the FAA wants you to apply. Use the link below to get started on your application today.
Why This Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Maintenance), Partial Program Manager, Powerplant Job Matters
Elevate your career in aviation oversight by becoming a key architect of safety at the Federal Aviation Administration.
Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Maintenance), Partial Program Manager, Powerplant Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking a skilled Aviation Safety Inspector to join the Midwest Certificate Management Office. In this role, you will serve as a Partial Program Manager, specifically overseeing powerplant maintenance, repair, and alteration programs. You will play a critical part in maintaining the highest standards of safety for air carriers, ensuring that maintenance facilities and programs remain in full compliance with rigorous regulatory requirements.
Requirements for Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Maintenance), Partial Program Manager, Powerplant
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current FAA Mechanic Certificate with airframe and power plant ratings
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the FG/GS-13 level
- Valid state driver's license
- Fluency in English
- Must meet FAA medical requirements, including potential for a second-class medical certificate
- No more than two aviation regulation violations within the last 5 years
Preferred Qualifications for Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Maintenance), Partial Program Manager, Powerplant
- Extensive experience with 14 CFR Part 121 aircraft maintenance and components
- Proven background in conducting enforcement investigations and providing technical reports
- Experience developing or monitoring engine and APU reliability programs
- Capability to manage complex stakeholder relationships in air carrier environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package
- ✓Telework eligibility according to agency policy
- ✓Professional development and career advancement opportunities within the FAA
- ✓Comprehensive healthcare and retirement programs
💡 How to Apply Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Maintenance), Partial Program Manager, Powerplant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Maintenance), Partial Program Manager, Powerplant Job
- Submit your application through the official FAA portal by the closing date.
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and clearly details relevant work experience, grade levels, and series.
- Upload a copy of your FAA Mechanic Certificate and any required SF-50 forms if you are a current FAA employee.
- Complete any required online assessments to demonstrate your competencies.
- Monitor your status via the FAA online portal after submission.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; ensure your experience directly aligns with the technical requirements listed in the announcement.
- If you are transferring between specialties, upload a completed Qualifications Assessment Tool (QAT) check sheet.
- Double-check that all work history includes job titles, employer names, start/end dates, and hours worked per week.
- Remember to resubmit your application if you make any changes, or those changes will not be evaluated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this role is telework eligible in accordance with current FAA Agency Policy.
What is the specialized experience requirement?
You must possess at least one year of experience equivalent to the FG/GS-13 level in the maintenance and repair of airframes and powerplants for large, multi-engine aircraft under an airworthiness maintenance program.
Is there a residency requirement for this position?
You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this vacancy.
Can I apply if I am currently an FAA employee?
Yes, current FAA employees are encouraged to apply and must include their SF-50 documentation with their submission.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The Federal Aviation Administration is the primary governing body for aviation in the United States. With over 44,000 employees, the FAA manages everything from air traffic control to the certification of aircraft and airmen. Joining the FAA means becoming part of a diverse, mission-driven team that is actively shaping the future of aerospace, including advancements in autonomous, electric, and high-speed flight technologies.