Chief Inspector II

Sierra Nevada Corporation•Hagerstown, MD

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Chief Inspector is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of quality control and regulatory compliance within a complex Part 145 repair station performing civil and non-civil aircraft maintenance, alterations, and government contract modifications. This role ensures all operations comply with applicable FAA and/or military regulations, safety policies, and manufacturer requirements. The Chief Inspector supports the certification of aircraft airworthiness and coordinates all inspection activities related to scheduled maintenance, modifications, or component changes. This position oversees the inspection team, manages documentation and records, resolves discrepancies, and liaises with regulatory authorities and customers to ensure all work meets stringent standards for safety, quality, and performance. The Chief Inspector plays a critical role in promoting a safety culture and continuous improvement within the organization. The Mission Solutions and Technologies (MST) business area provides affordable, turn-key command/control, communications, integrated ISR, force protection and security solutions worldwide. The MST team has a long legacy of supporting the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, commercial and international customers with years of experience in platform operations, engineering and full lifecycle management across domains – air, land, sea, space and cyber.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
5+ years of relevant experience.
Relevant experience can be considered as a substitute for the required educational qualifications. In the absence of a degree, a minimum of 9 years of related experience is required.
Higher level relevant degree may substitute for experience.
Knowledge of FAA regulations and aviation inspection practices.
Ability to understand and interpret moderately complex technical schematics, diagrams, blueprints, manuals and/or publications.
Advanced understanding of troubleshooting techniques.
Active, current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification and Inspection Authorization (IA) Designation.
Advanced experience and knowledge of aircraft, aircraft systems, equipment, and parts.
Thorough understanding and experience with the practical application of audit and inspection processes and procedures.

Nice To Haves

Experience with EASA regulations and DCMA guidelines.
Previous experience in a supervisory or managerial role.
Previous management or lead experience; the ability to recruit employees; assign, direct, and evaluate their work; and oversee the development and maintenance of staff competence.
Background in the Aerospace and Defense Industry, the US Department of Defense, or US Military.

Responsibilities

Assist in the implementation and management of inspection standards, methods, and procedures.
Ensure compliance with FAA, European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), and other applicable regulations.
Support the certification of aircraft airworthiness by signing off on inspections and aircraft releases.
Coordinate inspections related to scheduled maintenance, aircraft modifications, or component changes.
Verify that approved equipment and materials are used and that high standards of workmanship are maintained.
Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure adherence to inspection protocols.
Maintain detailed records of inspections and certifications.
Assist in conducting internal audits to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Develop, implement, and monitor quality control processes to ensure all work meets internal and external quality standards.