Aircraft Maintenance Planning Manager

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career advancement

Safety focus

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Aircraft Maintenance Planning Manager in Soweto, Gauteng. Lead the planning team to develop and optimize aircraft maintenance schedules, ensuring regulatory compliance and maximum fleet availability.

You will oversee heavy checks, line maintenance, and parts forecasting, coordinating with operations, engineering and supply chain to drive efficiency and safety.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, aviation management, or related field.
• 6+ years of aircraft maintenance experience with 3+ years in planning/supervisory roles.
• Strong knowledge of maintenance programs, life limits, and scheduling principles.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize long-term and short-term maintenance plans and schedules.
• Ensure compliance with SACAA, EASA, FAA and manufacturer requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management

Tools

AMOS

SAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading commercial airline, is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Aircraft Maintenance Planning Manager to lead their planning department in Soweto, Gauteng. This critical role is responsible for developing, managing, and optimizing the maintenance schedules for the airline's fleet, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements and maximizing aircraft availability while controlling costs. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of aircraft maintenance programs, component life limits, regulatory mandates, and advanced planning methodologies. You will lead a team of maintenance planners, fostering a culture of efficiency, safety, and continuous improvement. This position demands exceptional organizational skills, a proactive approach, and a deep commitment to aviation safety and operational excellence. We are looking for a proven leader with a strong background in aviation maintenance planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve long-term and short-term aircraft maintenance plans and schedules.
• Ensure all maintenance activities comply with regulatory requirements (e.g., SACAA, EASA, FAA), manufacturer recommendations, and airline policies.
• Manage and optimize the utilization of maintenance resources, including personnel, facilities, and equipment.
• Oversee the planning of heavy maintenance checks, line maintenance tasks, and component replacements.
• Coordinate with operations, engineering, and supply chain departments to ensure seamless execution of maintenance plans.
• Monitor maintenance program effectiveness and identify opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency improvements.
• Manage the maintenance forecasting process, including planning for required parts, tooling, and external support.
• Supervise and mentor a team of maintenance planners, providing guidance and performance management.
• Ensure accurate record-keeping and reporting of all maintenance planning activities.
• Participate in the evaluation and selection of new maintenance planning software and tools.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities regarding maintenance program approvals and compliance audits.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of the airline's overall maintenance strategy.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aviation Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in aircraft maintenance, with at least 3 years in a planning or supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of aircraft maintenance programs, component life limits, and maintenance scheduling principles.
• Strong understanding of aviation regulations and airworthiness requirements.
• Experience with maintenance management software (e.g., AMOS, SAP) and planning tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex schedules, resources, and cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and compliance.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Must be a South African citizen or possess valid work permits.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and opportunities for career advancement within a major airline.
• Employees benefit from a dynamic work environment, exposure to modern fleet operations, and a strong focus on safety and professional development.
• This role is based in Soweto, Gauteng, providing a chance to contribute significantly to the local aviation industry.
• This position requires full-time commitment on-site at our client's facilities in Soweto.