Launch Your Career: Aviation Safety Inspector with the FAA

Are you an experienced aviation maintenance professional looking to pivot into a role that influences the safety of the entire national aerospace system? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking a dedicated individual for an Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Maintenance) position in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This role is a unique opportunity to apply your technical mastery to a broader regulatory framework, helping ensure that general aviation remains safe, efficient, and innovative.

Job Responsibilities

As a Principal Maintenance Inspector (PMI) at the FG-13 level, you will work with substantial technical independence. Your primary responsibilities include:

Developing and implementing standards and procedures for aviation maintenance.
Providing policy assistance to field-level inspectors.
Serving as the primary point of contact for complex aviation organizations.
Evaluating and approving proposals for changes in authorized programs.
Conducting rigorous surveillance to ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR).

Comparison: FG-13 vs. GS-12 Responsibilities

Feature	FG-13 (This Role)	GS-12 (Comparison)
Primary Focus	Large/Complex Organizations	Smaller/Uncomplicated Organizations
Technical Scope	Turbine-powered/Novel Operations	Smaller Turboprop/Large Piston
Decision Authority	High - Primary Certification Contact	Limited - Specific Assignments

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet several stringent criteria, including:

Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the FG-12 or GS-12 level.
Certification: Valid FAA Mechanic Certificate with airframe and power plant ratings.
Recency: Documented aircraft maintenance work within the last three years.
Medical: Must pass medical examinations to ensure the ability to perform inspector duties and potentially fly as a passenger in various aircraft.
Integrity: A clean record regarding Federal Aviation regulation violations.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $106,437 to $138,370 per year. In addition to a competitive federal salary, the FAA provides an extensive benefits package including:

Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Health: Diverse options for health, dental, and vision insurance.
Flexibility: Telework opportunities and generous leave policies.
Growth: Continuous training and development in emerging aviation technologies.

Application Tips

To stand out during the evaluation process, follow these guidelines:

Format: Keep your resume to a strict two-page limit.
Detail: Your resume must include specific start and end dates and the number of hours worked per week for each role.
Skills: Rather than writing narrative paragraphs, use your resume to provide concrete examples that demonstrate your mastery of maintenance and regulatory compliance.
Submission: If you make changes to your profile, ensure you re-submit your application package to be considered.

Serving as an Aviation Safety Inspector with the FAA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the highest safety standards in the sky. If you have the technical background and the desire to guide the future of general aviation, apply today to join the FAA team in Oklahoma City.

Why This Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Maintenance) Job Matters

Elevate your career in aviation safety with the FAA—where your expertise in aircraft maintenance directly impacts the safety and efficiency of the national aerospace system.

Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Maintenance) Job Overview

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking a highly skilled Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Maintenance) to join the Flight Standards Service in Oklahoma City. In this pivotal role, you will serve as a Principal Maintenance Inspector (PMI), overseeing complex aviation organizations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving safety standards for general aviation. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced maintenance professional to transition into a leadership role where technical expertise and regulatory oversight meet.

Requirements for Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Maintenance)

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Valid State driver's license.
Fluency in the English language.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Not more than two separate incidents involving Federal Aviation regulation violations in the last 5 years.
No history of chemical dependency or drug abuse that could interfere with job performance.
Possess a valid FAA Mechanic Certificate with airframe and power plant ratings.
Must have aircraft maintenance experience within the last 3 years.
Must meet physical medical requirements, including vision and hearing standards.
Must pass a Moderate Risk (Tier 2) background investigation.

Preferred Qualifications for Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Maintenance)

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the FG-12 or GS-12 level in the Federal service.
Extensive experience involving maintenance and repair of airframes, power plants, and aircraft systems.
Specific experience with aircraft 12,500 pounds or less maximum certificated takeoff weight.
Prior maintenance experience in a repair station, air carrier/airline facility, military repair facility, or government agency.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary and locality pay
✓Comprehensive Federal health and life insurance programs
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth
✓Work-life balance with telework eligibility

💡 How to Apply Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Maintenance) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Maintenance) Job

Log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages.
Ensure your resume explicitly details work history with start/end dates and hours per week.
Upload required documentation, such as the SF-50 (if applicable).
Complete all required online assessments.
Submit your application before the closing date of September 8, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise and strictly adhere to the two-page limit.
Do not provide KSA narrative responses; instead, weave your examples of skills and experience directly into your work history entries.
Clearly label your experience to show how it meets the FG-13 level requirements.
Double-check your application after making changes; you must re-submit the package for updates to count.
Ensure your contact information is current and your certifications are clearly listed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a degree required for this position?

No, formal education is not a qualifying factor for this role. Specialized, hands-on experience in aviation maintenance is the primary requirement.

Can I submit my application via email or fax?

No. All applications must be submitted through the USAJOBS portal. Faxing is only permitted for supplemental documents like the SF-50.

What level of security clearance is needed?

This position requires a Moderate Risk (Tier 2) background investigation.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: No, this position does not offer relocation expenses.*

What if I have a physical impairment?

*A: The FAA provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Contact the agency human resources department for assistance during the application process.*

How is my application reviewed?

*A: HR reviews your qualifications against the specialized experience requirements. Qualified candidates are then forwarded to the hiring manager.*

Job from Federal Aviation Administration

The Federal Aviation Administration is the primary government body responsible for the regulation of civil aviation in the United States. Beyond just air traffic control, the FAA is at the forefront of aerospace innovation, supporting the development of electric aircraft, autonomous vehicles, and sustainable aviation technologies. With a diverse workforce of over 44,000, the FAA offers a mission-driven environment where your expertise directly contributes to global aviation safety.