Aircraft Technician III

Citadel Aviation; Lake Charles (LA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Citadel Aviation, LLC is seeking an Aircraft Technician III to perform advanced mechanical installations, modifications, repairs, and inspections on VIP/ VVIP completions and refurbishments, in accordance with FAA regulations and OEM specs. The role requires minimal supervision and positions you as a technical expert on aircraft systems and interior installations.

The role also involves mentoring junior technicians, collaborating with Engineering, Quality, and Program Management to ensure

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of aircraft maintenance, modification, or assembly experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of aircraft mechanical systems, structural repair techniques, and interior installations.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex engineering drawings, STCs, and maintenance manuals.
• Demonstrated ability to perform complex tasks independently and lead troubleshooting on aircraft systems.
• Proficient in oral and written English; must have personal set of trade tools.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced mechanical tasks including layout, fitting, structural modifications, and component installations.
• Independently interpret work from drawings and manuals with minimal supervision.
• Install and align major cabin components such as galleys, lavatories, bulkheads, and headliners.
• Lead troubleshooting on flight controls, hydraulics, oxygen systems, and cabin mechanisms; resolve non-routine issues.
• Mentor Level I and II technicians and participate in project milestones.

Skills

Aircraft maintenance

Reading engineering drawings

Mentoring

English proficiency

Tool proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

FAA A&P certificate (preferred)

Tools

ERP software

Maintenance-tracking software

Job description

Purpose

The Aircraft Technician III performs complex mechanical installations, modifications, repairs, and inspections with minimal supervision and serves as a technical expert on aircraft systems, structural components, and interior installations, on aircraft undergoing VIP/VVIP completions, refurbishment, or maintenance, in accordance with FAA regulations, OEM specifications, and the Repair Station and Quality Manual.

This role performs the full range of aircraft maintenance and assembly tasks independently, taking on advanced and complex mechanical work, supporting production timelines and quality standards, mentoring junior technicians, and ensuring compliance with regulatory, safety, and engineering requirements. Success in this role looks like sound independent judgment on complex tasks, strong cross-functional collaboration, and effective mentoring of Level I and II technicians.

This position reports to the Aircraft Operations Manager and works closely with Engineering, Quality, and Program Management to support the on‑time, airworthy re-delivery of aircraft.

Responsibilities

Advanced Mechanical & Structural Work

• Perform advanced and complex mechanical tasks including layout, fitting, structural modifications, major component removals and installations, and mechanical system integration.
• Independently interpret and execute work from engineering drawings, STCs, maintenance manuals, and company instructions with minimal supervision.
• Install and align major cabin components including galleys, lavatories, bulkheads, headliners, and mechanical interfaces.
• Independently perform removal and installation of aircraft panels, seating, furnishings, structural components, and interior systems.
• Conduct mechanical assembly, fitting, layout, drilling, and hardware installation using approved hand and power tools.

Troubleshooting & Cross-Functional Support

• Lead troubleshooting and corrective actions on flight controls, hydraulics, oxygen systems, and cabin mechanisms; resolve non‑routine discrepancies.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Program Management to resolve technical issues, and support Return-to-Service readiness, inspections, and discrepancy resolution.
• Become familiar with and follow the requirements of the Repair Station and Quality Manual, Federal Aviation Regulations, Airworthiness Directives, advisory circulars, and manufacturers’ service bulletins applicable to assigned work.
• Accurately document work performed and complete sign-offs in accordance with the Repair Station Manual, FAA requirements, and task requirements, using digital or paper records.

Mentorship & Project Support

• Provide technical direction and mentoring to Level I and II technicians.
• Participate in aircraft moves, jacking, and rigging activities as required for project milestones.

Communication & Customer Focus

• Maintain close and frequent communication with the Lead Technician, reporting progress and any roadblocks that could impact re‑delivery.
• Deal with customers in a cordial, respectful, and professional manner, supporting the re‑delivery of airworthy, reliable, and clean aircraft in a timely manner.
• Participate in required training to build knowledge of aircraft systems, tooling, and shop practices.

Requirements

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• 5–10 years of aircraft maintenance, modification, or assembly experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of aircraft mechanical systems, structural repair techniques, and interior installations.
• Ability to independently read, interpret, and apply complex engineering drawings, STCs, service bulletins, and aircraft maintenance manuals.
• Demonstrated ability to perform complex tasks independently and to lead troubleshooting on aircraft systems.
• Proficient in oral and written English (able to read, understand, and apply maintenance manuals, work instructions, and safety documentation).
• Must report for assignment with a personal set of standard trade-specific tools.
• Holds a current, valid driver’s license, where required to perform the essential functions of the position.
• Authorized to work in the United States and able to pass pre-employment and applicable DOT/FAA drug-and-alcohol screening (safety‑sensitive position).

Preferred

• FAA Mechanic Certificate with both Airframe and Powerplant ratings, or Repairman Certificate eligibility.
• Proficiency using ERP, work‑order, or maintenance‑tracking software.
• Familiarity with quality assurance processes, STCs, and conformity documentation.
• Experience with large‑cabin aircraft or narrow/wide‑body transport‑category aircraft.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in aircraft hangars, maintenance shops, and on or inside aircraft; considered MEDIUM work with frequent lifting up to 20 lbs and occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Requires frequent walking, standing, bending, kneeling, climbing, and working through airframe, engine, and undercarriage openings on ladders, scaffolds, hoists, and lifts; exposure to noise, dust, moving equipment, confined spaces, and elevated work stands. PPE and OSHA/company safety protocols required at all times.
• Travel not typically required; may occur on occasion for offsite support, AOG support, or training.
• May require flexible shifts, overtime, weekends, or holidays based on project demand.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Citadel Aviation, LLC. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.