Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician - 951

West Star Aviation Inc.

Chicago (IL)

On-site

USD 91,693,000 - 166,194,000

Full time

1 hour ago
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Benefits offered by this job

Medical Coverage
Dental Coverage
Vision Coverage
401(k) Match
Weekly Pay
PTO Accruals

Job summary

West Star Aviation in Chicago, IL is seeking a Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician to lead a team of technicians in performing high-quality maintenance on aircraft and related systems. The role requires strong problem solving, hands-on expertise, and effective communication with customers and teammates.

Ideal candidates have a minimum of 8+ years in aviation maintenance with 4+ years in program-specific airframes, an A&P license, and the ability to supervise multiple projects under FAA

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

  • Lead the team to complete necessary jobs/tasks with good judgment and escalation to management as needed.
  • Implement a strong turnover of work to the next shift.
  • Look for opportunities to reduce turn time of aircraft.
  • Train/mentor technicians assigned to projects.
  • Supervise team members in daily workload and performance.
  • Work independently on projects and lead multiple projects with scheduling and quality focus.
  • Perform general mechanical tasks on aircraft and related systems, including removal and installation of panels and components.
  • Troubleshoot and evaluate aircraft systems when designated.
  • Inspect and evaluate aircraft and components as required.
  • Coordinate aircraft movement, runs, and taxiing when needed.

Skills

Team leadership
Troubleshooting
Problem solving
English communication
Independent work

Education

High school diploma or equivalent
Airframe & Powerplant License

Job description

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Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician - 951

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Full Time

On-Site

Chicago, IL, USA

Posted 30+ days ago

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.

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. This includes 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 in these functions, as is showing excellent drive and initiative.
  • Perform general mechanical functions on aircraft and related systems. This shall include, but not be limited to items such as removal and installation of panels and components, repair work and sheet metal repair or installation.
  • Troubleshooting and evaluation of systems on the aircraft when designated.
  • Inspection and evaluation of the aircraft and components when designated.
  • Aircraft movement, performance runs and taxiing when required.
  • Maintenance and repair of shop facility, equipment and tooling to support operations.
  • Work with customer in project management, pricing and customer support roles.
  • Effectively and clearly communicate (i.e., speak, write, read) in English
  • Any other job-related duties as assigned by supervisor or management.
What You’ll Need To Bring With You
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 techs 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 to include overtime and weekend assignments.
  • Notify supervisor in advance of shift starting if unable to work.
  • Must have reliable transportation to get to work each and every 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.
  • Supervision of team members in daily operations and duties.
  • Completion of work orders, FAA paperwork.
Other Particulars
Physical Requirements
  • Lift at least 50 lbs.
  • Routine walking, bending and squatting or sitting.
  • Routing 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 & Benefit Information

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 $32 - $58. 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
Company Description

With over 78 years of industry experience, West Star Aviation stands as a leading independent Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) provider. Employing over 3,000 professionals, we offer comprehensive services from our strategically located full-service facilities in East Alton, IL; Grand Junction, CO; Chattanooga, TN; Millville, NJ; Perryville, Missouri; and Statesville, NC as well as satellite locations in Denver, Houston, Minneapolis and Chicago. Our extensive capabilities encompass maintenance, paint, interior, and avionics services, supported by the largest Aircraft On Ground (AOG) network in the country, ensuring prompt and reliable mobile repair services nationwide.

© 2025 West Star Aviation. All rights reserved.

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