Airframe Structures Lead Technician - 2995

Duncan-Aviation; Battle Creek (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Duncan Aviation in Battle Creek, Michigan is seeking an Airframe Structures Lead Technician who will be responsible for managing the structural repair aspects of assigned aircraft projects. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in sheetmetal and composite structures and possess leadership skills to guide team members effectively. With a required Airframe or Repairman’s Certificate and significant aircraft maintenance experience, this position plays a critical role in ensuring quality and efficiency in aircraft maintenance. Teamwork, safety, and professionalism are key focuses.

Qualifications

• Airframe or Repairman’s Certificate required; Powerplant Certificate preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• QI designation and tool inventory per department tool list required.

Responsibilities

• Manage all structural repair aspects of assigned aircraft projects.
• Perform troubleshooting, fitting and installation of the most complex structural assemblies.
• Supervise day-to-day activities of team members as assigned.

Skills

Technical aptitude in sheetmetal and composite structures

Troubleshooting and installation of structural assemblies

Team leadership and training skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Five years of related aircraft maintenance experience

Job description

General Summary

The Airframe Structures Lead Technician demonstrates a high level of technical aptitude relating to sheetmetal and composite structures in the performance of safe, quality, and efficient aircraft maintenance. The Lead Technician manages and accepts ownership of all aspects of assigned aircraft projects, including coordinating necessary resources, documentation, and communication with team members and customers to ensure timeliness and quality of the projects. In addition, this position acts as a positive role model by promoting respect and trust among team members; interacts positively with customers and team members to foster a company-wide environment of teamwork; participates in personal and leadership development opportunities and demonstrates leadership and professionalism; and performs as a Quality Inspector (QI).

Essential Job Functions

1. Manages all structural repair aspects of assigned aircraft projects to ensure safety, quality and efficiency throughout the projects. Accepts full ownership of assigned projects through planning, prioritizing and communicating with customers, team members, OEMs, outside contractors and vendors as necessary. Ensures the safety and security of customers’ equipment, parts and aircraft during all maintenance phases.
2. Performs troubleshooting, fitting and installation of the most complex structural assemblies. Proposes and seeks approval for alternate installation and fabrication processes as needed to complete the task to the highest degree of quality and efficiency. Performs all work in accordance with Duncan Aviation approved procedures, appropriate maintenance manuals and technical data. Performs Quality Inspector (QI) duties as needed.
3. Oversees, completes and maintains accurate and timely aircraft and project documentation, including reviewing preliminary reports to ensure accuracy of forecasted and billed labor hours. Reviews work orders, invoices, etc. to ensure timely and accurate inventory allocation, appropriate sign‑off language, and accurate charges for labor and outside services are applied prior to billing. Participates in reviewing the final invoice with appropriate management and sales personnel for profitability, accuracy, accountability and documentation. Assists with professionally and courteously addressing customer billing disputes for maintenance actions performed by team members.
4. Supervises day‑to‑day activities of team members as assigned by the team leader. Holds team members accountable to Duncan Aviation approved policies and procedures, including professionalism, safety and cleanliness of the work environment. Ensures team’s consistent use of appropriate technical data.
5. Willingly and effectively shares knowledge and capabilities with less experienced technicians through OJT to foster their development, ensure accurate work, and support of the team’s goals.
6. Performs other duties as assigned by management.

Job Specific Requirements

Licenses/Certificates

Airframe or Repairman’s Certificate required; Powerplant Certificate preferred; valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record; Respirator Fit qualified; QI designation; Man Lift qualified; meets requirements for Aircraft Run and Taxi Qualifications; tool inventory per department tool list required.

Attendance

Regularly scheduled attendance required; occasional overnight and short notice travel required.

Physical

Routinely lifts up to 50 lbs. and occasionally up to 100 lbs.; reads small print; hears sounds associated with mechanical deficiencies; repetitive motion; works with moving parts and vibration; tolerates products, materials and fumes associated with component maintenance; tolerates working in confined spaces and heights above four feet; tolerates standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, climbing and sitting.

Environmental

Tolerates working in extreme temperatures and in noisy environments.

Education and Experience

• High school graduate or equivalent required
• Five years related aircraft maintenance experience required
• Previous experience leading projects at Duncan Aviation is required

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.