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Aviation Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

STV

Inspector - Aviation

Austin, TX · On-site

$64K - $73K/yr

STV is seeking an Inspector to join our Construction Management Group, to work onsite with one of our aviation clients in Austin, TX. Job Summary: The Inspector is responsible for overseeing the ...

STV Incorporated

Inspector - Aviation

Austin, TX · On-site

$64K - $73K/yr

STV is seeking an Inspector to join our Construction Management Group, to work onsite with one of our aviation clients in Austin, TX. Job Summary: The Inspector is responsible for overseeing the ...

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Aviation Inspector information

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$52

How much do aviation inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for aviation inspector in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aviation Inspector vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectAviation InspectorAircraft Maintenance Technician
CredentialsFAA certifications, inspector licensesFAA certifications, mechanic licenses
Work EnvironmentInspection sites, regulatory agenciesMaintenance hangars, repair shops
Employer & IndustryAirlines, regulatory agencies, manufacturersAirlines, maintenance companies, repair stations

Both Aviation Inspectors and Aircraft Maintenance Technicians require FAA certifications and work within the aviation industry. While inspectors focus on ensuring compliance and safety standards through inspections, maintenance technicians perform hands-on repairs and maintenance tasks. Understanding these roles helps job seekers identify the right career path in aviation safety and maintenance.

What are Aviation Inspectors?

Aviation Inspectors are professionals who examine aircraft, maintenance procedures, equipment, and operations to ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards set by aviation authorities. They inspect planes for airworthiness, review maintenance logs, and test equipment to identify potential safety hazards. Aviation Inspectors may work for government agencies, airlines, or private organizations, and play a crucial role in maintaining the safety of air travel. Their work helps prevent accidents and ensures that both commercial and private aircraft operate safely.

Is a FAA inspector a good job?

An FAA inspector is responsible for ensuring aviation safety by inspecting aircraft, maintenance, and operations to comply with federal regulations. The role offers stable employment, requires certification and technical knowledge, and often involves regular travel and detailed documentation. It is considered a reputable and important position within the aviation industry.

How much do FAA investigators make?

FAA investigators, also known as aviation safety inspectors, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. They perform safety inspections, enforce regulations, and may require certifications such as an airframe and powerplant license or pilot experience.

How to become an aviation inspector?

To become an aviation inspector, candidates typically need a background in aviation, engineering, or a related field, along with experience in aircraft maintenance, operations, or safety. Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority is often required, and inspectors must pass written exams and practical assessments. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of safety regulations, and good communication skills are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aviation Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aviation Inspector, you need a thorough understanding of aviation regulations, maintenance procedures, and aircraft systems, often supported by an FAA certification or an aeronautics degree. Familiarity with inspection tools, diagnostic equipment, and regulatory databases is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help inspectors identify issues and clearly document findings. These abilities ensure compliance with safety standards, minimize risks, and maintain the highest levels of aviation safety.

How much do airline inspectors make?

Airline inspectors, also known as aviation safety inspectors, typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced inspectors with specialized skills or working for federal agencies can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.

What are some common challenges Aviation Inspectors face during aircraft evaluations?

Aviation Inspectors often encounter challenges such as keeping up with frequently updated regulations, thoroughly inspecting complex aircraft systems under time constraints, and effectively communicating findings to maintenance crews and management. They must balance strict adherence to safety standards with the operational needs of airlines or aviation companies. Additionally, inspectors may work irregular hours and in various weather conditions, requiring adaptability and strong attention to detail.
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Aviation Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aviation Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Aviation Safety Inspector

Career Fields | Federal Aviation Administration

Memphis, TN • On-site

$90K/yr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

The Geographic Program Inspector (Flight Oversight) is responsible for the performance of assigned technical administration, surveillance, and certification duties of air carriers/air operators within a geographical area.Functions as the focal point for office communications with principal inspectors in other offices/regions.Qualifications:

General Requirements for All 1825 Positions:

  1. Not more than two separate incidents involving Federal Aviation regulations violations in the last 5 years
  2. Valid State driver's license
  3. Fluency in the English language
  4. No chemical dependencies or drug abuse that could interfere with job performance, and
  5. High School diploma or equivalent.

Medical Requirements for All Positions:

Applicants must be physically able to perform the duties of the Aviation Safety Inspector position in a safe and efficient manner, with or without a reasonable accommodation. The minimum medical requirements include the following requirements:

  1. Have good distant vision in each eye and be able to read, without strain, printed materials the size of typewritten characters (glasses and contact lenses permitted);
  2. Have the ability to hear the conversational voice (hearing aid permitted); and
  3. Not have any physical condition that would cause them to be a hazard to themselves or others that would interfere with their ability to fly as passengers in a variety of aircraft.

In addition, applicants for positions that require participation in the operation of the aircraft must:

  1. Possess a valid second class medical certificate in accordance with FAA regulations; and
  2. Pass recurrent medical examinations as prescribed by the FAA.

Applicants not requiring valid second-class medical certificates who are tentatively selected will be required to:

  1. Provide documentation from a board-certified physician certifying that they meet the minimal medical requirements; or
  2. Individuals who do not meet the minimum medical requirements but who are otherwise qualified will receive an individualized assessment to determine whether they can perform the essential functions of the position.

When the predominant work involves air carrier flight oversight, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

  1. At least one year of pilot experience in multi-engine aircraft of more than 12,500 pounds maximum certificated takeoff weight.
  2. Three years of experience working in an organization with an air carrier, commercial operator, or air agency certificate, an organization whose work led to the certification of individual airmen, or an organization that operated aircraft. At least one year of this experience must be with an organization that operated multi-engine aircraft or more than 12,500 maximum takeoff weight.
  3. Minimum 1,500 total flight hours.
  4. Must hold a valid Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.
  5. Not more than two flying accidents during the last five years in which the applicant's pilot error was involved.

NOTE: The Aviation Safety Inspector (Flight Oversight) position does not require a second-class medical certificate.

To qualify for this position, you must demonstrate in your application that you possess at least one year of experience equivalent to FV-H, FG/GS-12 grade level. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped you with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position.

Specialized experience is defined as: monitoring and issuing certificates to a large complex aviation organization or several smaller organizations that, in total, are comparable in complexity to one large aviation organization. Work at this grade level/pay band is generally reviewed from an overall standpoint for accuracy, consistency, and effectiveness in meeting requirements.

The recency of specialized experience is waived for current FAA employees in the 1825 series.

Applicants should include examples of specialized experience in their work history.

Qualifications must be met by the closing date of this vacancy announcement.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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