Director of Maintenance
We are partnering with a Part 135 rotary wing operator in the Midwest to recruit their next Director of Maintenance (DOM). This leader is responsible for the management, supervision, and regulatory compliance of the companyrsquo;s aircraft maintenance program under Part 135 operations. The DOM will provide strategic direction to ensure all aircraft are maintained in an airworthy condition, maintenance personnel are fully trained and equipped, and company practices/policies comply with FAA regulations, manufacturer guidelines, and internal safety standards.
As the primary point of contact with the FAA, aircraft manufacturers, and external vendors, the DOM will represent the company on all matters of maintenance and airworthiness. The role calls for exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills to manage a multi-base operation supporting multiple aircraft types.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide overall leadership and management of the maintenance department across all bases.
- Ensure company aircraft are maintained in accordance with FAA regulations, OEM guidance, company manuals, and safety management practices.
- Develop, implement, and oversee the companyrsquo;s maintenance policies, procedures, and inspection programs.
- Supervise, train, and evaluate maintenance personnel, including Base Mechanics, Assistant Director of Maintenance, and contracted maintenance providers.
- Coordinate closely with Flight Operations leadership to align aircraft availability with operational requirements.
- Maintain direct communication with the FAA regarding maintenance activities, compliance, and inspection findings.
- Review and approve maintenance records, logbooks, and documentation for accuracy and regulatory compliance.
- Oversee the companyrsquo;s maintenance tracking systems and ensure timely completion of scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.
- Manage maintenance budgets, parts inventory, and vendor contracts.
- Conduct regular base visits to ensure consistency, safety, and compliance across all maintenance activities.
- Lead internal audits, root-cause analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives in maintenance operations.
- Serve as a member of the companyrsquo;s Safety Committee and contribute to proactive risk management.
- Act as a key decision-maker in aircraft acquisition, modification, and transition planning.
- Provide maintenance coverage support during the absence of the Assistant DOM or base mechanics if operationally required.
- Airframe and Powerplant (A P), Certificate required; Inspection Authorization (IA) preferred.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in aviation maintenance leadership, preferably in Part 135 operations with rotorcraft.
- Bachelorrsquo;s degree in Aviation Management, Engineering, or related field preferred.
- Demonstrated knowledge of FAA Part 135 regulations, maintenance tracking systems, and aviation safety standards.
- Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
- Proven ability to manage budgets, vendors, and multi-base operations.
- Experience with company aircraft types preferred.
Key Competencies:
- Regulatory compliance and attention to detail.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making under operational time constraints.
- Ability to lead and motivate a geographically distributed team.
- Strategic mindset with the ability to balance safety, compliance, and operational demands.
- Collaborative approach with flight operations, safety, and executive leadership.