Director of Maintenance

Windward Aviation; Kahului (HI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Windward Aviation is seeking a Director of Maintenance responsible for ensuring the airworthiness and regulatory compliance of the helicopter fleet in Maui, Hawaii. This leadership role requires a strong A&P leader from the utility sector who values operational excellence while promoting a culture of safety.

The ideal candidate will manage maintenance operations, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations, and oversee a dedicated team of maintenance personnel. Enjoy consistent operations and a stable schedule with the opportunity to be home daily.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in maintenance management in the aviation sector.
• Strong leadership skills with a focus on safety and compliance.
• Experience with regulatory standards and maintenance records.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and manufacturer requirements.
• Direct all scheduled and unscheduled maintenance operations.
• Lead maintenance personnel and ensure team accountability.

Skills

Regulatory Compliance

Maintenance Planning

Team Leadership

Audit Compliance

Inventory Management

Education

A&P License

Job description

The Director of Maintenance (DOM) is responsible for the overall airworthiness, maintenance, and regulatory compliance of Windward Aviation’s helicopter fleet. This role ensures all aircraft are maintained in accordance with FAA regulations, OAS certification standards, manufacturer requirements, and company policies—supporting safe, efficient, and reliable operations.

The DOM is a key member of the leadership team and works closely with the President, Director of Operations, Chief Pilot, and Safety Manager. This position leads and continuously improves our maintenance operation. The ideal candidate is highly organized, capable of managing multiple aircraft events simultaneously, and experienced in building efficient systems while maintaining full compliance.

Windward Aviation operates primarily within Maui County, supporting Hawaii’s conservation efforts, county Police and Fire, and other utility missions. We offer a unique opportunity in the utility helicopter industry: year‑round, consistent operations based in a single location, with a stable schedule, and the ability to be home daily. We are seeking a strong A&P leader from the utility sector who values both operational excellence and quality of life.

Fleet & Operating Environment

• Fleet: 5 × MD500D, 2 × BK117 B2 (850D2)
• Base: Maui, Hawaii (1 aircraft on contract on Oahu)
• Operations: Part 135, Part 133, Part 137, Public Use, and Part 91
• Centralized operation with limited field deployment

Key Responsibilities

• Regulatory Compliance & Airworthiness
• Ensure compliance with 14 CFR Part 135 and applicable Parts 91, 43, 65, 133, and 137
• Maintain manufacturer approved maintenance and OAS certification standards
• Serve as primary liaison with FAA PMI and OAS auditors
• Ensure aircraft airworthiness

Maintenance Control & Planning

• Direct all scheduled and unscheduled maintenance
• Oversee manufacturer inspection criteria and component tracking (LLPs, TBOs)
• Manage downtime and coordinate AOG response

Team Leadership

• Lead and manage maintenance personnel (A&P mechanics, helpers, support staff)
• Ensure proper staffing, training, and current qualifications
• Foster a strong, accountable safety culture
• Records, QA & SMS
• Maintain accurate, audit‑ready records (logbooks, ADs, SBs, CHR, maintenance tracking system)
• Oversee quality control and support SMS participation
• Identify trends and proactively mitigate maintenance risk

Vendors & Inventory

• Manage OEMs, repair stations, and overhaul vendors
• Oversee procurement, inventory, and cost control
• Ensure full traceability and regulatory compliance of parts

Operational Coordination

• Coordinate daily with DOO, Chief Pilot, and scheduling
• Align maintenance with mission demands (fire standby, ag ops, utility work)
• Support rapid aircraft configuration changes across mission types