Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician - 951

West Star Aviation Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 44,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits effective day one with health

Medical, Dental and Vision coverage

401(k) with company match

Paid holidays & PTO

Flexible work schedules

Job summary

West Star Aviation is seeking a Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician in Chicago, IL. You will lead a team of technicians, manage multiple projects, and ensure work is performed to high quality while adhering to FAA guidelines.

The role requires a strong technical background, leadership, and problem-solving skills. The position offers full-time on-site work with competitive pay and benefits, including 401(k) matching and health coverage.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and Airframe and Powerplant License are required.
• Aircraft-specific factory training is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the team to complete assigned jobs and manage day‑to‑day tasks.
• Ensure smooth turnover of work to the next shift.
• Identify opportunities to reduce aircraft turnaround time.
• Train and mentor technicians on projects.
• Supervise team members on daily workload and priorities.
• Lead multiple projects with focus on schedule and quality.
• Perform mechanical work on aircraft and related systems.
• Troubleshoot and evaluate system operation.
• Inspect aircraft and components as designated.
• Coordinate aircraft movements, performance runs, and taxiing.
• Maintain shop facilities, equipment, and tooling.
• Communicate clearly in English.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Skills

Team leadership

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Communication

Project coordination

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Airframe and Powerplant License

Tools

Basic computer operations

Job description

Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician - 951

Full Time

On-Site

Chicago, IL, USA

Posted 30+ days ago

Job Link Copied

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

• 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.

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.