Become an Aviation Safety Inspector with the FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the backbone of the global aviation system. If you are a seasoned avionics professional looking to pivot into a role that influences safety across the nation, this Assistant Partial Program Manager (APPM) role is an exceptional opportunity. You will work with Part 121 air carriers to ensure that their maintenance programs and operations meet the highest safety standards in the industry.
Job Responsibilities
As an APPM, you are the front line for safety. Your duties include:
- Technical Administration: Assessing and auditing air carrier maintenance programs.
- Certification: Overseeing the certification of airmen, aircraft, and air agencies.
- Surveillance: Monitoring continuous airworthiness maintenance programs and analyzing trends.
- Enforcement: Investigating non-compliance and making final recommendations on enforcement actions.
Requirements
To qualify, you must possess strong technical knowledge in avionics. Key requirements include:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Valid driver's license.
- English language fluency.
- Specialized experience at the FG/GS-12 level.
Requirements Comparison
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Mandatory U.S. Citizenship |
| Experience | Min. 1 year specialized at GS-12 equivalent |
| Education | High School Diploma/Equivalent |
| Licensing | Valid driver's license required |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $90,925 – $118,204 per year. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and work-life balance initiatives like situational telework.
Serving as an Aviation Safety Inspector is more than a job; it is a commitment to the safety of every passenger in the sky. If you meet the criteria and are ready to advance your career, submit your application today.
Why This Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Avionics), (Assistant Partial Program Manager (Appm)) Job Matters
Take your aviation career to new heights by shaping the future of safety and compliance with the Federal Aviation Administration.
Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Avionics), (Assistant Partial Program Manager (Appm)) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking experienced aviation professionals to serve as an Assistant Partial Program Manager (APPM) for Air Carrier Avionics. In this vital role, you will assist in overseeing the safety, maintenance, and airworthiness standards for Part 121 air carriers. This is a unique opportunity to directly impact the aviation industry, ensuring that carriers, agencies, and designees operate under the highest standards of technical excellence and regulatory compliance.
Requirements for Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Avionics), (Assistant Partial Program Manager (Appm))
- U.S. Citizenship (applications from non-citizens will not be accepted).
- Not more than two separate incidents involving Federal aviation regulation violations within the last 5 years.
- A valid State driver's license.
- Fluency in the English language.
- No chemical dependencies or drug abuse affecting job performance.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the FG/GS-12 level.
- Specific technical experience in aircraft avionics maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting on aircraft weighing over 12,500 pounds.
Preferred Qualifications for Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Avionics), (Assistant Partial Program Manager (Appm))
- Proven experience in aircraft avionics work within a repair station, air carrier facility, military facility, or governmental agency within the last three years.
- Demonstrated ability to audit training programs and record-keeping systems.
- Strong investigative skills regarding aircraft incidents, accidents, or public complaints.
- Experience providing technical testimony in legal settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and locality pay adjustments.
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid annual leave and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Situational telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Avionics), (Assistant Partial Program Manager (Appm)) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier Avionics), (Assistant Partial Program Manager (Appm)) Job
- Create a USAJOBS account if you have not already done so.
- Prepare your resume, strictly limited to a maximum of two pages.
- Ensure your resume includes detailed job titles, series, grade levels, and weekly hours worked.
- Upload required documentation, such as transcripts or SF-50 (for current federal employees).
- Submit your application through the official FAA portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages; longer resumes will not be accepted.
- Be specific in your work history; align your descriptions with the specialized experience requirements.
- If you are a current FAA employee, ensure your SF-50 includes all required blocks (15, 17, 18, 19, 22, and 24).
- Resubmit your application if you make any changes, otherwise they will not be captured.
- Redact personal identifiable information (PII) from any supplemental documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, this position involves travel as part of inspection and surveillance duties.
Can I apply via email or fax?
No, all applications must be submitted via the online portal to be considered.
What medical requirements must I meet?
Applicants must demonstrate physical fitness for the role, including meeting visual and auditory standards. Certain roles may require a second-class medical certificate.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA is responsible for the safety of civil aviation. With a diverse workforce of over 44,000 employees, the agency works across multiple disciplines—from air traffic control to engineering and safety inspections. By joining the Flight Standards Service, you become part of a critical team that ensures our skies remain the safest in the world.