Aircraft Inspector Job Descriptions, Average Salary, Interview Questions

[Your company name] is searching for a candidate who is motivated and has an eye for detail. We are in need of an experienced and responsible candidate with great communication, analytical, interpersonal, and listening skills. An inspector is in charge of maintaining a safe and healthy work environment and making sure everyone is complying with the legal regulations. Other duties include doing reports, approving finished products, and entering the data accumulated. This position comes with a great deal of responsibility. You will need to be available to work full-time and any certifications are a plus.

Typical duties and responsibilities

• Conduct flight test programs to test instruments, equipment, and systems
• Inspect all aspects of an aircraft for the safety and security of its passengers and crew
• Ensure adherence to standards and procedures with federal regulations
• Suggest the repair or replacement of aircraft equipment 
• Determine the cause of air accidents 
• Maintain records regarding inspections, repairs, and investigations 
• Issue licenses to pilots

Education and experience

This position requires an associate degree, but employers prefer candidates who have a bachelor’s degree and experience repairing aircraft.

Required skills and qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication 
• Excellent troubleshooting, problem-solving, and collaborative skills 
• Extensive knowledge of machines and tools, including their design, uses, repair, and maintenance 
• Deep comprehension of laws that govern the handling and maintenance of aircraft
• Keen attention to detail 

Preferred qualifications

• Certification applicable to an inspector 
• 2+ years of experience as an inspector or related field

Responsibilities

• Conduct all required inspections in accordance with the applicable Federal Aviation Regulations, manufacturer’s approved data, any customer’s approved program data, and the policies and procedures contained in this Inspection Procedures Manual
• Perform NDT test equipment setup, calibration, and inspection of airframe structures, components, and power plants
• Inspect various aircraft components, accept or reject work completed, and sign all items on the work order when work meets required standards
• Accept responsibility for entries in the aircraft maintenance flight logs which pertain to his/her inspections, as well as the airworthiness release
• Qualified to Level II in the following: Liquid Penetrate, Magnetic Particle, Eddy Current, Ultrasonic, and/or Radiographic inspection methods required
• Record the results of all inspections performed on the proper inspection forms used by the repair station in accordance with this Inspection Procedures Manual
• Be thoroughly familiar with the applicable Federal Aviation Regulations, specifications, tolerances, limits, inspection methods, techniques, and equipment used in their area of responsibility to determine the quality of the work performed and the airworthiness of the article.
• Maintain proficiency with various types of inspection aides used for the inspection of a particular item
• Ensure current specifications involving inspection tolerances, limits, and procedures recommended by the manufacturer of the product undergoing inspection and other forms of applicable inspection information are available for reference. Other examples of inspection information would be FAA Airworthiness Directives, manufacturer’s bulletins, approved customer data, and Federal Aviation Regulations
• Make final airworthiness determination prior to “Return of Service” on items they are authorized to inspect for any article maintained or altered by this repair station
• Reject any work or parts that have not been properly maintained or altered in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations, manufacturer’s approved data, customer-approved data, and the policies and procedures contained within this manual
• Support the company Safety Program

Requirements

• High School Diploma/GED. Must be able to read, write, and speak English
• Requires 3 years experience as an FAA Airframe licensed Aircraft, Avionics, or Structures Technician
• A current FAA Airframe License required

Job duties

• Put safety first at all times and never compromise on safety for the obtainment of other objectives. Responsible for the health and safety of themselves and coworkers
• Visual inspection of composite parts
• Dimensional measurements using calipers, micrometers, height gages, etc.
• Comparison and evaluation of certifications and supporting data to specifications
• Inspection of Aircraft parts to ensure compliance with important regulatory and contractual requirements
• Observe Safety policies and programs including workplace organization
• Confirm and approve incoming materials, in-process materials, and finished products using specifications, visual evaluation, property measurements, and other tests, as well as reject unacceptable materials
• Document inspection results by written reports and electronic data entry
• Maintain documents to ensure traceability of all materials and processes
• Input data into the database or SAP
• Proper use and documentation of measurement equipment
• Continuously improve job knowledge through training and individual work
• Accomplish Quality and Organization mission by completing work in a cooperative and helpful manner with open communication
• Support and engage in our AEC Quality System

Requirements

• Good mechanical aptitude and use of basic hand and power tools
• Basic math skills
• Attention to detail
• Ability to understand and follow training materials, technical drawings, and work instructions
• Proper use of safety and personal protective equipment
• Basic computer skills (MS Excel, MS Word, SAP)
• Ability to communicate in English via written and spoken words
• Positive outlook and commitment to the Quality function as a service to all customers and an absolute commitment to Aircraft Safety

Education

• High school graduate or equivalent

Relevant work experience

• Worked in a manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of QS 9000 & Aerospace AS9100 Quality Systems. Lean Manufacturing /Six Sigma methodology a plus

Position purpose

The Airworthiness Inspector physically inspects the aircraft, and its components, and reviews paperwork to ensure that workmanship meets acceptable standards of quality, and that customer aircraft are returned to service in an airworthy condition with all of the required documentation properly completed and filed.

Principal duties and responsibilities

• Responsible for all Quality Control inspections on aircraft/components in the Repair Station
• Completes inspections of aircraft, engine, and component repairs and alterations to ensure conformity to FAA approved/acceptable data
• Coordinates mechanical, electrical, and inspection requirements on the aircraft during maintenance or outfitting
• Keeps accurate, neat, and legible records of the work performed on aircraft/components
• Coordinates throughout assigned jobs with RTS to ensure accurate aircraft records are produced in a timely manner
• Conducts audits of maintenance documentation for accuracy and completion on all aircraft prior to approval for return to service
• Ensures aircraft/components are airworthy prior to any flight activities
• Mentors technicians on effective documentation

Additional functions

• Communicates with management as required to identify work assignments and delivery schedules
• Continually monitors repair station compliance with FAR Part 145 and the FAA-accepted site Repair Station and Quality Control Manual
• Completes FAA required. conformity inspections and compiles certification data for presentation to the FAA for approval
• In support of aircraft certification and final phase testing, may include flight tests on aircraft as required
• Perform other duties as assigned

Education and experience requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Airframe and Powerplant License required
• 4 years of aircraft experience on large/mid-size aircraft
• Proficient in the utilization of Federal Aviation Regulations, FAA forms, and documents
• Proficient in blueprint reading and interpretation, shop mathematics, and QC Procedures

Other requirements

• Must have an Airframe and Powerplant License 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. Must be able to prioritize tasks
• Strong computer skills
• Must be able to work all shifts
• Able to climb ladders and stairs, work in small restricted areas and lift up to 40 lbs