Senior FAA Part 145 Quality & Compliance Lead

Cirrus Aircraft Ltd.; Benton Harbor (MI); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Health Coverage

401(k) Plan matching

Paid time off (PTO)

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Cirrus Aircraft Ltd. is seeking a QA/Compliance leader to oversee the FAA Part 145 program for the BEH Factory Finish Center. The role ensures full regulatory compliance, directs the inspection and finishing teams, and maintains accurate certification records.

You will report to the facility Director and drive continuous improvement in quality and safety. Ideal candidates have 7+ years of aviation inspection/maintenance leadership, an A&P license, and a strong background in CFR Part 145, with

Qualifications

• 7+ years in aviation inspection/maintenance with leadership roles
• Knowledge of 14 CFR Part 145 regulations required
• DOT certification in accordance with regulations
• FAA A&P license required; IA preferred

Responsibilities

• Oversee Part 145 program for Cirrus BEH Factory Finish Center
• Ensure FAA/regulatory compliance across operations
• Supervise inspections/finishing team; mentor staff
• Maintain records of inspections, repairs, and certifications
• Prepare reports to FAA and other bodies
• Lead continuous improvement of QA processes

Skills

Leadership

FAA compliance

Quality assurance

Regulatory audits

Problem solving

Education

Associate's in aviation maintenance

Bachelor's in aviation science/tech

Tools

Maintenance tracking software

EBIS experience

Job description

Overview

This position is responsible for overseeing all aspects of quality assurance and compliance of a FAA Part 145-certified repair station. Responsible for ensuring that day-to-day operations of the facility are efficient, organized, and compliant with FAA regulations. This role demands a high level of responsibility, day-to-day leadership, and the ability to maintain the highest quality standards in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. This position will report to the facility Director.

Responsibilities

• Own the day-to-day execution and responsibilities associated with the established Part 145 program for the Cirrus BEH Factory Finish Center.
• Ensure all operations within the FAA Part 145 repair station are fully compliant with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, including but not limited to FAR 145, 43, 91, and 135.
• Oversee and execute the inspection process to ensure quality standards align with manufacturing standards and post maintenance practices for the aircraft.
• Own daily inspection activities to ensure efficient workflow, appropriate task prioritization, and timely and accurate work orders while maintaining exemplary quality standards.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between the Accountable manager and Direct Labor, providing operational ownership, subject matter expertise, direction, and troubleshooting assistance when needed.
• Champion standardized processes and best practices by serving as the facility subject matter expert.
• Ensure that all work is performed according to company policies, FAA standards, and safety and quality protocols.
• Lead, manage, and mentor the inspections and finishing team to maintain high levels of competency, training, and performance.
• Ensure inspectors and technicians obtain and maintain required certifications, demonstrate continuous technical proficiency and consistently perform duties as assigned.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, repairs, and certifications in accordance with FAA and company standards.
• Ensure all documentation meets regulatory requirements and is stored securely.
• Monitor and assess the quality of the shop's activities, recommend process improvementsre and/or corrective actions when necessary.
• Conduct audits and inspections to verify the effectiveness of the quality control program.
• Prepare and submit all required reports to the FAA and other regulatory bodies as required, ensuring all activities are properly documented and reported in a timely manner.
• Ensure all safety protocols are followed during inspections. Identify potential risks or non-compliance issues and take proactive measures to resolve identified issues.
• Participate in continuous improvement programs and provide input to enhance quality assurance, effectiveness, and compliance with industry standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's degree in aviation maintenance or a related field required.
• Bachelors degree in aviation science or technology desired.
• 7+ years experience in practical aviation inspection and maintenance, including leadership roles.
• Indepth knowledge of 14 CFR Part 145 regulations required.
• Possess a valid Department of Transportation (DOT) certification in accordance with applicable federal and state regulations.
• Proven ability to influence and mentor teams through technical expertise and best practices while fostering a culture of safety, quality, and accountability.
• FAA Airframe and Powerplant license required.
• FAA Inspection Authorization preferred.
• Thoroughly versed in CFR FAR's, inspection methods, techniques, practices, aids, applications, tools and equipment.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency with maintenance tracking software and computer systems required.
• EBIS Experience is preferred.
• Previous experience in regulatory audits or inspections required.
• Experience with FAA part 145 certifications and operations required.

Our Benefits: Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options
• Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts:FSA and HSA offerings with company contributions to HSA
• Well-being:Calm Health, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness incentives through medical provider
• 401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting at 1 year of service
• PTO: Various PTO plans starting at 100 hours accrued within the first year
• Additional Time off Benefits: Paid holidays, 2 weeks of Paid Parental leave, paid time for funeral leave and jury duty
• Career Development: Tuition reimbursement program and professional growth opportunities
• Exclusive Discounts: Cirrus Store, partner and marketplace discounts available
• Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations

These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus!

Other DutiesPlease note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Work beyond 40 hours per week may be required.

Cirrus is dedicated to a drug-free work environment promoting equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, religion, pregnancy, veteran status, marital and family status, sexual orientation, receipt of public assistance, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

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