Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician

West Star Aviation; Millville (NJ); On-site; USD 52,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits start day one

Medical, Dental, Vision with HSA/FSA

401(k) with match

Paid holidays and PTO

Flexible work schedules

Job summary

West Star Aviation in Millville, NJ is seeking a Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician to lead a team of technicians, ensuring high quality, timely results and strict adherence to FAA regulations. The role emphasizes hands-on maintenance, problem solving, and effective project flow management in a fast‑paced hangar environment.

You will supervise daily tasks, mentor junior technicians, perform mechanical work on aircraft and related systems, troubleshoot and inspect components, and coordinate

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required and A&P license.
• Valid driver's license for travel ideal; passport helpful.
• 8+ years in aviation maintenance; 4+ years in program-specific airframes.
• Lead a team with minimal supervision; capable of managing multiple tasks.

Responsibilities

• Lead technicians to complete jobs with high quality and timely results; involve manager when needed.
• Train/mentor technicians; supervise daily workload and project flow.
• Perform mechanical work on aircraft, panels, sheet metal, and related systems; install/remove components.
• Troubleshoot, inspect, and evaluate aircraft systems and components; coordinate project management with customers.

Skills

Team leadership

Problem solving

Mechanical aptitude

English communication

Self-motivation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Airframe and Powerplant License

Driver's license / passport

Aircraft factory training (preferred)

Job description

Overview

West Star is the fastest growing maintenance repair organization in the industry and we recognize this is the result of our talented team of trusted employees working together to deliver customer service excellence. We are committed to providing our employees with personal and professional growth opportunities while fostering a culture of respect and well‑being with a small company feel.

When you join our team we don't think you should have to wait for your benefits to kick in. That's why when you start, they start with you! This includes medical, dental, 401K match, time off accruals, weekly pay days and much more. We don't want you to live to work, we want you to work and live.

Responsibilities

What you can expect as a Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician at West Star:

As a Lead, your main focus will be centered on leading a team of technicians to produce timely results that are of the highest quality and accuracy. The most successful individuals will be highly analytical, inquiring, and have a critical mind. This job requires imagination and strong problem‑solving skills, with a strong technical orientation. Getting the job done and getting it done right are the two, equal, drivers for this job. Effectively utilizing manpower and directing project flow will be your primary function.

You will be ESSENTIAL to many FUNCTIONS including:

• Lead the team to complete the necessary jobs/tasks, using good judgement in handling day‑to‑day tasks and knowing when to involve your manager.
• Implement a strong turnover of work to the next shift.
• Look for opportunities within your area of responsibility to reduce turn time of aircraft.
• Help to train/mentor those technicians assigned to your projects.
• Supervise team members in daily work load.
• Work independently on projects and lead multiple projects as assigned; schedule and work quality are essential functions, alongside showing excellent drive and initiative.
• Perform general mechanical functions on aircraft and related systems, including removal and installation of panels and components, repair work, and sheet metal repair or installation.
• Troubleshoot and evaluate systems on the aircraft when designated.
• Inspect and evaluate the aircraft and components when designated.
• Conduct aircraft movement, performance runs, and taxiing when required.
• Maintain and repair shop facility, equipment, and tooling to support operations.
• Work with customers in project management, pricing, and customer support roles.
• Effectively and clearly communicate in English (i.e., speak, write, read).
• Perform any other job‑related duties as assigned by supervisor or management.

Requirements/Qualifications

Your Education:

• A High school diploma or equivalent and Airframe and Powerplant License are required.
• A valid driver's license approved for airline travel and/or a valid passport is ideal, but not mandatory.
• Aircraft specific factory training is preferred.

Your Experience:

• 8+ years in aviation maintenance preferred.
• 4+ years in program specific airframes.
• This position requires minimal supervision and will lead small groups in daily tasks.
• These technicians are subject matter experts and demonstrate a wide and comprehensive knowledge of the job.

Your Initiative:

We're looking for a team player who is self‑motivated and able to perform in a fast‑paced environment where working under specific deadlines and time constraints will be common.

Your Sense of Responsibility:

• Attend work every day as scheduled, including overtime and weekend assignments.
• Notify supervisor in advance of shift starting if unable to work.
• Must have reliable transportation to get to work each day.
• Must perform all work in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines.
• Follow all company and safety rules during performance of duties.
• Maintain customer-oriented work habits.
• Direct the work and flow of multiple projects.
• Supervise team members in daily operations and duties.
• Complete work orders and FAA paperwork.

Other Particulars

Physical Requirements:

• Lift at least 50 lbs.
• Routine walking, bending, and squatting or sitting.
• Routine or repetitive physical motion with arms and hands.
• Basic personal computer operations.

Mental Requirements:

• Understanding and implementation of regulations and guidelines.
• Troubleshoot or evaluate system operation.
• Work with others in a professional manner.
• Coordinate projects.
• Team management skills.

Supervision:

• Will directly supervise multiple technicians.
• Will work under supervision of assigned Team Leader and Operations Manager.
• Work with other Team Leaders on multiple projects in a cooperative manner.

Working Conditions:

• The majority of work will be accomplished in a hangar environment which can include very hot or very cold temperatures.
• Work outside during aircraft runs will occur.
• Varied positions in and around the aircraft.

Equipment Used:

• Personal hand tools supplied by the mechanic.
• Pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical equipment.
• Jacks, stands, lifts, and other support devices.
• Tugs, power carts, and other engine‑powered equipment.
• Personal computer and work order prints.

Compensation & Benefits

The following information is disclosed according to state‑specific requirements. If the position applied to is not in a state with these requirements, the following information may not apply. The hourly rate for this position generally ranges between $38.00 - $69.00. Actual hourly rate will vary and may be above or below the range based on various factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance. Additional compensation in the form of a shift differential will be provided if the employee is assigned to an alternate shift. The range listed is just one component of the total compensation package. Other forms of compensation include a semi‑annual discretionary bonus, 401(k) company match, and employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA).

West Star Aviation's Benefits:

• Benefits Effective Day One for Eligible Employees.
• Medical, Dental and Vision Coverage with Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.
• Life Insurance, Disability Benefits & Supplemental Benefits.
• 401(k) Plan with Employee Contributions & Employer Match.
• Paid Company Holidays & Weekly Paid Time Off Accruals.
• Flexible Work Schedules include 5x8, 4x10, and 3x12.
• Weekly Competitive & Industry Leading Pay means you are paid more often.
• Bonus Opportunity based on Company and Site Performance.
• Internal Mobility & Career Advancement opportunities.