Lead, Avionics Install

West Star Aviation; Illinois; On-site; USD 69,000 - 89,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Dental/Vision (HSA/FSA)

401(k) with company match

Paid holidays & PTO

Weekly pay

Job summary

West Star Aviation in Illinois is seeking a Lead Avionics Install Technician to guide a team of technicians in delivering timely, high-quality avionics installations and repairs. You will troubleshoot complex aircraft electrical and electronic systems, inspect components, and manage project flow while ensuring FAA compliance.

The role requires 8+ years in avionics installation and maintenance, plus corporate aircraft experience.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Electrical tech school experience required.
• Aircraft-specific factory training preferred.
• 2+ years corporate aircraft experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of technicians to deliver high-quality avionics installations.
• Troubleshoot and evaluate aircraft systems before and after modification.
• Inspect aircraft/components and coordinate work flow and project timelines.
• Process work orders, FAA paperwork, and customer pricing.
• Mentor and train team members and ensure compliance with FAA guidelines.

Skills

Team leadership

Troubleshooting

Electrical systems

Project coordination

Education

High school diploma

Electrical tech school

Aircraft-specific training

Tools

Corridor systems

Job description

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.

Position Overview

As a Lead Avionics Install Technician, your main focus will be centered on leading a team of technicians to produce timely results that are of the highest quality and accuracy. This position requires a strong knowledge of aircraft electrical, electronic, and instrument systems and the ability to troubleshoot and repair those systems. The job includes varying amounts of parts replacement or repair, electrical troubleshooting, inspection of aircraft or systems and general mechanic application. Supervision of the team and direction of project flow will be a primary function. Overall coordination of work flow for the project will also be a primary function. Work order processing, log book entries, required FAA forms and pricing to the customers are routine duties. Job duties may vary each day and will encompass projects as designated by the Avionics Repair Manager. You will be required to work independently and lead multiple projects with direct customer contact.

Responsibilities

You will be ESSENTIAL to many FUNCTIONS including:

• Planning and coordination of installation projects to include parts and outside services requests, manpower requirement planning and supervision.
• Troubleshooting and evaluation of systems on the aircraft before and after modification.
• Inspection and evaluation of the aircraft and components when required.
• Aircraft movement and performance verifications of systems.
• Maintenance and repair of shop facility, equipment and tooling to support operations.
• 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.
• Process work orders for return-to-service, pricing to the customers and timely billing.
• Supervise team members in daily work and project management for completion of projects.
• Coordinate the interdepartmental schedule and act as production support for manager.
• Provide ground test and flight test support as needed.
• Lead the team to complete the necessary jobs/tasks without the benefit of other crews or managers on-site during the majority of your shift. Includes using good judgement in handling day-to-day tasks, and knowing when to involve your manager.
• Implement a strong turnover of work to day shift.
• Look for opportunities (within your area of responsibility) to reduce turn time of aircraft.
• Grow the shift into the future.
• Train/mentor your employees.
• Effectively and clearly communicate (i.e., speak, write, read) in English.
• Any other job-related duties as assigned by supervisor or management.

Qualifications

Your Education:
A High school diploma or equivalent.
Electrical tech school.
Aircraft specific factory training preferred.
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 prior experience on aircraft avionics system installation, troubleshooting and maintenance.
2+ years of corporate aircraft experience.
Advanced knowledge and use of Corridor systems is preferred.

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 hourly rate for this position generally ranges between $33-$43. 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