Lead Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plans

Professional development opportunities

Remote work

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Aircraft Maintenance Engineer to head remote engineering operations from Cape Town. You will spearhead maintenance planning, ensure airworthiness, and guide a distributed team across regulatory environments.

With 10+ years in aircraft maintenance and at least 3 in leadership, you will manage complex diagnostics, collaborate with regulators and vendors, and uphold safety and efficiency in a remote, dynamic setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience.
• At least 10 years aircraft maintenance experience, 3+ in a lead role.
• AME license or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of EASA/FAA/SACAA regulations.
• Experience managing remote teams and cross-functional coordination.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement maintenance plans and schedules.
• Provide guidance to remote maintenance teams and troubleshoot issues.
• Ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations and company policies.
• Review maintenance records and audits.
• Oversee procurement and inventory of aircraft parts.
• Mentor engineers and technicians; promote safety and continuous improvement.
• Liaise with regulators, airlines, and vendors.
• Document all maintenance activities and modifications.

Skills

Remote team leadership

Aviation regulatory knowledge

Maintenance planning

Troubleshooting & diagnostics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

MMS (Maintenance Management Systems)

Diagnostics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of aviation services and is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Lead Aircraft Maintenance Engineer to spearhead their remote engineering operations. This role demands a comprehensive understanding of aircraft maintenance procedures, regulatory compliance, and team leadership, all executed within a fully remote framework. You will be responsible for overseeing maintenance planning, troubleshooting complex technical issues, and ensuring the airworthiness of our client's fleet. This position offers a unique opportunity to leverage your extensive expertise in aircraft maintenance from a remote location, contributing directly to operational excellence and safety standards. If you are a seasoned professional passionate about aviation maintenance and thrive in a distributed work environment, this is the role for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive aircraft maintenance plans and schedules in accordance with regulatory requirements and manufacturer recommendations.
• Provide expert technical guidance and support to remote maintenance teams, troubleshooting and resolving complex mechanical, electrical, and avionics issues.
• Ensure strict adherence to all aviation safety regulations and company policies throughout all maintenance activities.
• Conduct detailed inspections and audits of aircraft maintenance records and work performed.
• Manage the procurement and inventory of aircraft parts and supplies, optimizing cost-effectiveness and availability.
• Lead and mentor a team of aircraft maintenance engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies, airlines, and vendors on technical and operational matters.
• Maintain detailed documentation of all maintenance activities, repairs, and modifications performed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 10 years of hands‑on experience in aircraft maintenance, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Possession of a valid Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) license or equivalent certification is highly desirable.
• In‑depth knowledge of various aircraft types, their systems, and maintenance requirements.
• Demonstrated experience with aircraft maintenance management systems (MMS) and troubleshooting diagnostic tools.
• Proven leadership abilities with experience managing remote teams.
• Strong understanding of EASA, FAA, or local South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) regulations.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Exceptional communication and reporting skills, adapted for a remote work environment.

Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, designed for remote professionals. Enjoy the unparalleled flexibility of working from your preferred location within Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA . Our client provides a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement savings plans. Continuous professional development opportunities, including specialized training and certifications, are supported. You'll be part of a forward-thinking organization that champions innovation and embraces remote work, offering a collaborative and supportive virtual team environment. Contribute to a company that prioritizes employee growth and well‑being.