Aircraft A&P Shop Foreman / Lead Mechanic

Thunderbird Aviation, Inc.

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Eden Prairie, Minnesota

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PERMANENT

Updated 09/18/2026

Job Description

Job Summary

The Aircraft A&P Shop Foreman with Inspection Authorization (IA) is responsible for overseeing daily aircraft maintenance operations, supervising maintenance personnel, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations, and performing or approving required inspections. This position serves as a working supervisor who coordinates maintenance activities, promotes safety and quality standards, and ensures efficient workflow while maintaining the highest level of airworthiness for customer and company aircraft.

Leadership and Supervision

Direct and supervise aircraft maintenance technicians and support personnel.

Assign work orders and monitor progress.

Provide technical guidance, training, and mentoring.

Conduct daily meetings and communicate priorities.

Monitor productivity and promote safety and accountability.

Aircraft Maintenance

Perform maintenance, preventive maintenance, repairs, and alterations.

Troubleshoot complex mechanical, electrical, avionics, and structural discrepancies.

Ensure work complies with FAA regulations, manufacturer specifications, and company procedures.

Verify proper maintenance documentation.

Inspection Authorization Responsibilities

Perform and approve annual inspections. Conduct required inspections and return-toservice approvals.

Review and sign maintenance records and FAA-required documentation.

Ensure aircraft conform to approved data and airworthiness standards.

Quality Control and Compliance

Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and company policies.

Monitor maintenance quality and workmanship.

Identify and correct discrepancies.

Maintain accurate records and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Assist with FAA audits and compliance reviews.

Customer Service

Communicate maintenance status and findings to customers and management.

Provide estimates and recommendations.

Resolve customer concerns and maintain professional relationships.

Market and network to bring in outside customers

Safety Responsibilities

Enforce safety policies and procedures. Ensure proper use of PPE and equipment.

Participate in audits and maintain a clean and safe work environment.

Requirements

FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certificate required. FAA Inspection Authorization required.

High School Diploma or GED required. Technical training preferred.

Minimum 5 years aircraft maintenance experience. Minimum 2 years leadership experience preferred

Experience with annual inspections and major repairs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of FAA Parts 43, 65, 91 and 145.

Strong leadership, troubleshooting, communication, organizational, and recordkeeping skills.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds; stand, bend, kneel, climb, and work in confined spaces and varying weather conditions.

Working Conditions

Aircraft hangar and ramp environment with exposure to noise, chemicals, grease, oils, solvents, and weather.

Overtime and weekends may be required.

Performance Expectations

Measured by maintenance quality, regulatory compliance, safety performance, project completion, team productivity, customer satisfaction, and FAA audit results.

Salary Range

Negotiable depending on experience, certifications, aircraft supported, and geographic location

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