AVIONICS MANAGER at Cutter Aviation in Phoenix, AZ

Description

Position Summary

The Avionics Manager oversees all avionics maintenance, troubleshooting, testing, installations, and inspections within the Part 145 Repair Station. This role ensures work is completed in compliance with FAA regulations, manufacturer data, company manuals, and customer requirements. The Avionics Manager leads a team of technicians, manages workflow, ensures proper tooling and equipment are available, and upholds high standards of safety, quality, and efficiency.

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Key Responsibilities

Regulatory Compliance & Technical Oversight

• Ensure all avionics work complies with FAA Part 145 requirements, Repair Station Manual (RSM), Quality Control Manual (QCM), and applicable regulations.
• Interpret and apply manufacturer maintenance manuals, service bulletins, wiring diagrams, and technical data.
• Oversee troubleshooting, repair, installation, testing, and return to service activities for avionics components and systems.
• Coordinate with QA inspectors to ensure proper documentation, sign offs, and traceability.

Leadership & Workflow Management

• Supervise, train, and mentor avionics technicians; assign tasks based on skill level and regulatory authorization.
• Plan and manage workloads to meet customer schedules and turnaround times.
• Conduct performance evaluations and support skills development and certification pathways.
• Foster a safety focused, collaborative, and high performance team culture.

Project Management

• Plan, coordinate, and manage avionics projects from initiation through completion, including upgrades, modifications, installations, and customer driven programs.
• Develop and oversee project timelines, resource allocation, workflow sequencing, and cross department coordination to meet all operational milestones.
• Track project progress, identify risks or delays, and implement corrective actions to ensure on time and compliant completion.
• Provide regular updates to leadership and customers, manage project budgets where applicable, and drive continuous improvement in project processes to enhance efficiency and quality.

Operational Management

• Ensure proper calibration, handling, and control of avionics tooling, test equipment, and special tooling.
• Monitor parts needs and coordinate with the Parts Department for procurement of avionics components, equipment, and consumables.
• Manage project documentation, work orders, discrepancies, and repair status.
• Support coordination of new avionics programs, equipment upgrades, and STC installations.

Customer & Vendor Support

• Serve as the technical point of contact for avionics customers, providing status updates and recommendations.
• Work with OEMs, repair vendors, and engineering resources to resolve complex technical issues.
• Review quotes, repair estimates, and project cost drivers to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

Continuous Improvement & Safety

• Participate in internal audits, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant avionics work area.
• Evaluate and implement new technology, tools, and processes that improve quality or reduce cost.

Requirements

Required

• 5+ years of avionics maintenance experience in a Part 145 Repair Station or similar aviation environment.
• Strong knowledge of FAA regulations, aircraft electrical systems, and avionics diagnostic/test equipment.
• Experience reading and interpreting schematics, engineering drawings, and wiring diagrams.
• Demonstrated leadership or lead technician experience.
• Proficiency with maintenance tracking or MRO/ERP software systems.

Preferred

• FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL).
• A&P or avionics certification.
• Experience with specific airframes relevant to the repair station.
• Knowledge of RVSM, ADS B, FMS, autopilot systems, and STC installations.

Core Competencies

• Technical Expertise
• Leadership & Team Development
• Regulatory Compliance
• Project Management
• Problem Solving & Decision Making
• Customer Focus
• Planning & Workflow Management
• Quality & Safety Mindset

Work Environment

• Combination of hangar and avionics shop environments.
• May require travel to support AOG or customer field service needs.
• Fast paced environment with shifting priorities based on aircraft schedules.

Other Requirements:

• Clean driving record.
• Able to pass a background check.
• Ability to pass a drug screening test.

Salary Description

$90,000-$130,000 annually DOE