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Chief Aircraft Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seeds of Creation

Aircraft Mechanic Crew Chief

Blaine, MN · On-site

$36 - $45/hr

Signing bonus Crew Chief - Aircraft Maintenance Technician (A&P) - General Aviation About This Posting: This job posting may appear under Seeds of Creation LLC, which provides administrative and HR ...

Red Wing Aviation

Crew Chief, Managed Aircraft

Teterboro, NJ · On-site +1

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Job Profile The Crew Chief ("CC") of the Embraer Legacy 135 is crucial to the serviceability, reliability and availability of the aircraft. The CC receives strategy, guidance, support and solutions ...

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Chief Aircraft information

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$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do chief aircraft jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief aircraft in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief aircraft do?

A Chief Aircraft, often referred to as a Chief Aircraft Engineer or Chief of Aircraft Maintenance, is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and overall airworthiness of an organization's aircraft fleet. They supervise a team of technicians, ensure compliance with aviation regulations, and coordinate maintenance schedules to minimize downtime. Additionally, they play a key role in safety management and often liaise with regulatory bodies to ensure all standards are met. Their leadership ensures that aircraft are safe, reliable, and ready for operation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief aircraft engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Chief Aircraft Engineer, you need an in-depth understanding of aeronautical engineering, regulatory compliance, and extensive experience with aircraft maintenance and operations, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional certification such as a Part 66 Aircraft Maintenance License. Familiarity with maintenance management systems, CAD software, and adherence to aviation safety standards is crucial. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure the safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance of aircraft operations while leading technical teams efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by a chief aircraft engineer, and how can candidates prepare to handle them?

Chief Aircraft Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing tight maintenance schedules, and ensuring strict regulatory compliance. Candidates should be prepared to balance hands-on technical oversight with effective leadership and communication skills. Familiarity with industry regulations (such as FAA or EASA standards) and experience in crisis management are crucial for success in this role. Proactive problem-solving and the ability to work under pressure will help you navigate these challenges and lead your team effectively.

What is the difference between Chief Aircraft vs Aircraft Maintenance Manager?

AspectChief AircraftAircraft Maintenance Manager
CredentialsAircraft maintenance certifications, pilot licenses (if applicable)Aircraft maintenance certifications, management experience
Work EnvironmentAircraft operation, safety oversight, flight planningMaintenance facilities, repair shops, oversight of maintenance teams
Industry UsageAirlines, private aviation, corporate fleetsAirlines, maintenance companies, private operators

The Chief Aircraft typically oversees aircraft operations and safety, focusing on flight-related activities, while the Aircraft Maintenance Manager concentrates on maintenance, repairs, and ensuring aircraft airworthiness. Both roles require relevant certifications and are vital in aviation safety and operations, but they differ in daily responsibilities and focus areas.

How do you become a chief aircraft?

To become a chief aircraft, one typically needs extensive experience as a pilot or aircraft technician, along with relevant certifications such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license or aircraft maintenance certifications. Leadership skills and knowledge of aviation safety standards are also essential, and many professionals gain experience through progressively senior roles in the aviation industry.

What cities are hiring for Chief Aircraft jobs?

Cities with the most Chief Aircraft job openings:

What states have the most Chief Aircraft jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chief Aircraft jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Chief Aircraft jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Aircraft jobs are:

Chief Aircraft jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Aircraft job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Chief Aircraft Systems Engineer

Approach Venture LLC

San Diego, CA • On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Chief Aircraft Systems Engineer - Lead the Development of Next-Generation Aircraft Systems
San Diego, California | On-site
Opportunity Summary
Join a well-funded, venture-backed aerospace company developing advanced aircraft designed to improve efficiency, performance, and operational flexibility for both commercial and government applications. As the company moves from design into flight testing and certification, they are seeking an experienced systems engineering leader to own the integration of the aircraft's major subsystems across the full product lifecycle. As the Chief Aircraft Systems Engineer, you will lead the architecture, integration, and technical execution of aircraft systems spanning propulsion, flight controls, avionics, electrical power, fuel, and mechanical subsystems. This role combines hands-on technical leadership with team management, requiring someone who can define system requirements, solve complex integration challenges, mentor engineers, and work closely with executive leadership to guide major engineering decisions from concept through first flight and into production.
About Us
We are a rapidly growing, venture-backed aerospace company developing next-generation aircraft that challenge conventional aviation design. Our multidisciplinary engineering team is building highly integrated aircraft using modern development methods, rapid prototyping, and iterative testing. As the company continues to scale, we are looking for experienced technical leaders who thrive in fast-moving environments and enjoy solving complex multidisciplinary engineering problems.
Job Duties
  • Lead the overall development and integration of aircraft subsystems across the complete product lifecycle
  • Define system architectures, technical requirements, and interface strategies between major aircraft systems
  • Oversee engineering activities involving propulsion, fuel, electrical, avionics, environmental, hydraulic, mechanical, and flight control systems
  • Perform system-level trade studies and technical evaluations to support design decisions
  • Develop system requirements, interface documentation, verification plans, and certification strategies
  • Coordinate closely with structures, flight sciences, manufacturing, software, avionics, and test engineering teams
  • Lead multidisciplinary design reviews and ensure subsystem integration remains aligned with overall aircraft performance goals
  • Manage engineering priorities, technical schedules, and key project deliverables
  • Mentor and develop systems engineers while establishing engineering standards and best practices
  • Support aircraft integration, ground testing, flight test planning, troubleshooting, and design validation
  • Identify technical risks early and drive effective resolution across cross-functional teams
  • Work directly with executive leadership to help define technical strategy, development priorities, and long-term product roadmap

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
  • 10+ years of aircraft systems engineering or closely related aerospace experience
  • Strong understanding of aircraft system architecture and multidisciplinary integration
  • Experience developing systems requirements, interface definitions, and verification methodologies
  • Demonstrated experience leading technical teams through complex engineering programs
  • Working knowledge of aircraft certification processes and regulatory requirements
  • Experience supporting aircraft integration, ground testing, and flight test activities
  • Familiarity with turboprop propulsion systems or other aircraft propulsion integration
  • Experience using modern CAD platforms such as Siemens NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering disciplines and executive leadership

Preferred Experience
  • Experience developing clean-sheet aircraft programs from concept through certification
  • Background supporting rapid hardware development and iterative prototype programs
  • Hands-on aircraft build, integration, or production experience
  • Experience working with composite airframe structures and subsystem installation
  • Familiarity with FAA Part 23 or Part 25 certification programs
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary engineering organizations within high-growth aerospace companies

Why Join Us
  • Competitive compensation package
  • Equity opportunity within a rapidly growing venture-backed company
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Unlimited paid time off
  • On-site fitness facilities
  • Opportunity to shape the technical direction of a next-generation aircraft program from development through certification
  • High level of ownership with direct visibility to executive leadership and company strategy

Compensation Details
$180,000 - $220,000
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