AIRPARK OPERATIONS - Director of Maintenance

AIRPARK OPERATIONS - Director of MaintenanceJob ClassificationPosition summaryThe Director of Maintenance provides leadership, oversight, and technical management of all aircraft maintenance operations at the Andrews University Airpark. This role ensures that all aircraft are maintained in an airworthy condition in compliance with FAA regulations, institutional standards, and best practices in aviation safety.The Director of Maintenance supervises maintenance personnel, manages the maintenance shop, and coordinates closely with flight operations to ensure efficient scheduling and operational readiness of the fleet. This position plays a key role in promoting a culture of safety, regulatory compliance, and excellence in aviation maintenance education.Qualifications summaryBachelor's degree in Aviation Maintenance, Aeronautical Science, or related field (preferred)FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certificate (required)Inspection Authorization (IA) (strongly preferred)Minimum 3-5 years of aircraft maintenance experience; supervisory experience preferredExperience in Part 141 and/or Part 147 training environments preferredKnowledge of FAA regulations and airworthiness standardsStrong organizational, communication, and leadership skillsComputer proficiency (MS Office, maintenance tracking software such as ATP or similar)Must be a Seventh-day Adventist in good and regular standing. Duties and responsibilitiesMaintenance Operations & OversightOversee all day-to-day operations of the maintenance shopEnsure all aircraft are inspected, maintained, and returned to service in an airworthy conditionEstablish and manage maintenance schedules, inspections, and preventive maintenance programsAccurately forecast maintenance events, including inspections, component life limits, and anticipated repairs to minimize aircraft downtime and support flight operationsCoordinate closely with the Flight Operations to align maintenance with flight scheduling needsTroubleshoot and resolve complex maintenance issuesRegulatory Compliance & SafetyEnsure compliance with all FAA regulations, manufacturer guidelines, and institutional policiesMaintain accurate and complete maintenance records and documentationLead and support FAA inspections, audits, and reporting requirementsPromote and enforce a strong culture of safety in all maintenance activitiesParticipate in safety audits, risk assessments, and corrective action initiativesPersonnel SupervisionSupervise maintenance technicians, staff, and student workersProvide training, mentoring, and performance oversight for maintenance personnelAssign and prioritize work to ensure efficiency and qualityFoster a positive educational and professional work environment aligned with program goalsShop Management & AdministrationManage parts procurement, inventory, and equipment within budget guidelinesOversee maintenance shop organization, tools, and operational readinessAssist with development and management of maintenance budgetsSupport long-term planning for fleet maintenance, upgrades, and equipment needsCoordination & CollaborationWork collaboratively with Airport Manager, Aviation Department Chair, and Chief Flight InstructorSupport aviation program goals, including student training and operational readinessAssist with planning for fleet growth, aircraft acquisition, and maintenance infrastructureServe as a technical resource for maintenance-related decision makingFaculty AppointmentThis position may include a faculty appointment, with responsibility to teach up to two aviation or maintenance-related courses per academic year, supporting the educational mission of the programSupervisory responsibilitiesDirect supervision of maintenance staff and student workersOversight of maintenance shop operations and workflowQualificationsBachelor's degree in Aviation Maintenance, Aeronautical Science, or related field (preferred)FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certificate (required)Inspection Authorization (IA) (strongly preferred)Minimum 3-5 years of aircraft maintenance experience; supervisory experience preferredExperience in Part 141 and/or Part 147 training environments preferredMust be a Seventh-day Adventist in good and regular standing. Technical competenciesFAA A&P certification required; IA preferredProficiency in aircraft maintenance procedures for single- and multi-engine GA aircraftFamiliarity with maintenance tracking systems (ATP or equivalent)Working knowledge of FAA Parts 43, 91, 141, 145 and 147Interpersonal interactionsAbility to work effectively with students, faculty, and staff in a training environmentStrong communication, leadership, and teamwork skillsDemonstrated commitment to safety, professionalism, and mentorshipAbility to manage conflict and maintain a collaborative work environmentPhysical demandsAbility to perform aircraft maintenance tasks including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periodsAbility to move aircraft, perform line service functions, and lift up to 50 lbsWork environmentWork performed in hangar and outdoor settings under varying weather conditionsExposure to mechanical equipment, tools, and aircraft systems