Maintenance Strategy & Cost Optimization Director

Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI); Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 165,000 - 185,000; Full time

Job summary

Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI) in Chicago seeks a senior leader to oversee Maintenance Operations planning, cost avoidance, and vendor governance.

The role focuses on parts planning, cost avoidance, and acting as the single point for vendor agreements. You will drive cost savings, support engine and airframe events, develop playbooks, and provide data-driven insights to the EVP of Maintenance Operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Aviation Management.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in operations management, strategic planning, procurement, or a related discipline, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership or director-level role.
• Demonstrated experience managing vendor relationships, contracts, and commercial agreements.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to build and interpret financial and operational data models.
• Project Management certification (PMP, CAPM) or equivalent demonstrated project management experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; advanced Excel skills required.
• Excellent communication and executive presence; proven ability to present to and influence C-Suite and senior leadership stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Identify and manage cost savings across airframe and engine maintenance events, including alternatives to full shop visits.
• Collaborate with FP&A Director and Technical Team to quantify and prioritize cost avoidance strategies.
• Develop cost savings pipeline tracker and report progress to EVP.
• Champion cost-conscious culture within Maintenance Operations and assess alternatives before commitment.
• Provide analytical support to Regional Directors and Field Teams for engine and airframe events.
• Leverage vendor terms to ensure cost-effective, sound decisions.
• Own and administer all vendor agreements within Maintenance Operations.
• Monitor vendor performance and drive resolution of discrepancies.
• Track spend with strategic vendors and identify renegotiation opportunities.
• Lead engagement with vendors ahead of renewals and expirations.
• Report to EVP on spend, utilization trends, and opportunities for increased internal sourcing.
• Oversee planning and scheduling for JSSI events, including engines and APUs.

Skills

Vendor management

Contract negotiations

Financial modeling

Executive communication

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Aviation Management

PMP, CAPM certification

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI) in Chicago seeks a senior leader to oversee Maintenance Operations planning, cost avoidance, and vendor governance.

The role focuses on parts planning, cost avoidance, and acting as the single point for vendor agreements. You will drive cost savings, support engine and airframe events, develop playbooks, and provide data-driven insights to the EVP of Maintenance Operations.