Chair-Aviation

Andrews University • Berrien Springs, MI

218d

About The Position

The Chair of the Department of Aviation provides visionary, academic, and operational leadership for a growing aviation program that includes a Part 141 FAA-approved Flight School and a Part 147 Airframe & Powerplant Maintenance School. The Chair also serves as Airport Manager for the university-owned airpark, ensuring FAA and MDOT Aeronautics compliance and coordinating day-to-day airfield operations. The ideal candidate combines academic leadership with operational excellence and a commitment to safety, student development, and industry relevance.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Aviation, or related field preferred.
• Vision for Adventist aviation education.
• Strong organizational, communication, and team-building skills.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in aviation programs.
• FAA Flight or A&P certifications.
• Knowledge of FAA regulations governing Part 141, Part 147, and airport operations preferred.
• Must be a Seventh-day Adventist in good and regular standing.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and academic oversight for all aviation programs (Flight and A&P).
• Supervise curriculum development, assessment, and accreditation processes (including FAA audits).
• Lead faculty hiring, mentoring, evaluation, and professional development.
• Foster a collaborative, mission-driven academic culture that supports teaching excellence, student success, and industry relevance.
• Coordinate academic advising, student recruitment, retention, and graduation efforts in partnership with university offices.
• Ensure ongoing FAA compliance and quality for the Part 141 Flight Training Program and the Part 147 A&P Maintenance Program.
• Supervise the Chief Flight Instructor and Director of Maintenance.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of training syllabi, aircraft scheduling, instructor assignments, and simulator usage.
• Ensure A&P training facilities, labs, tools, and instructional materials are maintained at high standards.
• Serve as the Airport Manager for the university-owned airpark.
• Ensure airport compliance with aviation safety and operational regulations.
• Oversee runway, hangar, and facilities management, including snow removal, mowing, lighting, fueling operations, and maintenance scheduling.
• Serve as liaison with FAA, MDOT Aeronautics, and local community.
• Develop and manage department budgets, aligning resources with strategic goals.
• Coordinate fleet acquisition, maintenance schedules, simulator upgrades, and facility improvements.
• Lead efforts in grant writing, fundraising, and cultivating industry partnerships.
• Represent the department in university committees, advisory board, and external industry organizations.
• Promote a culture of safety across flight and maintenance operations.
• Oversee safety reporting systems, risk management, and regulatory documentation.
• Ensure all policies and procedures are up to date and followed by faculty, staff, and students.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Master's degree
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees