Chief Inspector

FLSA Status:
Exempt Department:
Quality / InspectionPOSITION SUMMARY

The Chief Inspector provides direct supervision of Quality Assurance personnel and oversees the overall operation of the Inspection Department. This role ensures compliance with 14 CFR Part 145, the FAA-accepted Repair Station / Quality Control Manual (RSQCM), FAA-approved Training Program Manual (TPM), Operations Manual, and ISO/AS9110 quality management system requirements. The Chief Inspector serves as the official liaison to regulatory authorities, maintains regulatory independence from production functions, and ensures that all work performed meets applicable FAA regulations, contractual requirements, and established safety and quality standards.

• Ensure quality assurance functions comply with the RSQCM, TPM, Operations Manual, and ISO/AS9110 requirements.
• Ensure compliance with Airworthiness Directives (ADs), Service Bulletins (SBs), Advisory Circulars, Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs), Parts Manufacturer Approvals (PMAs), and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Serve as the official representative to regulatory agencies regarding inspection practices and continuous airworthiness.
• Submit required FAA reports of defects or non-airworthy conditions, including FAA Form 337 for major repairs or alterations in accordance with FAR 145.63.
• Create, review, and revise company manuals and procedures to maintain FAA and AS9110 compliance.
• Monitor calibration records to ensure precision tools and test equipment maintain National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) traceability.
• Perform facility audits to ensure proper techniques, safety standards, housekeeping, and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain the qualified inspector roster in accordance with Part 145 requirements.
• Ensure inspection training programs are effective and regulatory records are properly maintained.
• Oversee aircraft weight and balance activities as required.
• Monitor stockroom operations to ensure proper segregation and identification of serviceable and rejected items.
• Coordinate inspection functions with department supervisors to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Assist in development and maintenance of the Safety Management System (SMS).
• Provide recommendations to leadership regarding company maintenance capabilities and compliance matters.
• Manage subordinate supervisors within the Quality Assurance Department, including hiring, training, evaluating performance, and administering discipline in accordance with company policies and applicable laws.
• Plan, assign, and direct departmental work to ensure regulatory and contractual compliance.
• Perform other duties as assigned based on experience, qualifications, and business needs.

The requirements below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of fifteen (15) years of aviation experience across multiple aircraft types.
• At least ten (10) years of experience as a Chief Inspector or Quality Supervisor supporting heavy maintenance, modification, and repair projects.
• Must meet FAA qualification requirements for Chief Inspector under 14 CFR Part 145.

Ability to interpret and communicate technical procedures, professional publications, and government regulations. Ability to prepare reports, business correspondence, and procedural documentation. Ability to effectively present information to management, regulatory authorities, customers, and stakeholders.