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Flight Operations Inspector Jobs in Santa Ana, CA

We create in-flight entertainment systems that engross 50 million fliers every year and we develop ... Operations Inspector Irvine, CA (Onsite) Position Summary Thales is looking for an Operations ...

We create in-flight entertainment systems that engross 50 million fliers every year and we develop ... Operations Inspector Irvine, CA (Onsite) Position Summary Thales is looking for an Operations ...

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

... and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and ...

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Flight Operations Inspector information

See Santa Ana, CA salary details

$12

$28

$54

How much do flight operations inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight operations inspector in Santa Ana, CA is $28.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Flight Operations Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Operations Inspector, you need an extensive background in aviation, a commercial or airline transport pilot license, and in-depth knowledge of flight operations and regulatory standards. Familiarity with flight management systems, aviation safety protocols, and regulatory compliance tools such as ICAO and FAA documentation is essential. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication enable inspectors to assess operations and clearly convey safety expectations. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensuring compliance, promoting safety, and maintaining high standards in commercial aviation.

What is the difference between Flight Operations Inspector vs Flight Safety Specialist?

AspectFlight Operations InspectorFlight Safety Specialist
Required CredentialsFAA certifications, aviation safety trainingFAA certifications, safety management training
Work EnvironmentAirlines, regulatory agencies, airportsAirlines, regulatory agencies, safety organizations
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in airline operations and regulatory oversightFocus on safety protocols and incident prevention
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Flight Operations Inspectors and Flight Safety Specialists both work within the aviation industry, focusing on safety and compliance. While Flight Operations Inspectors primarily oversee airline operations and ensure regulatory adherence, Flight Safety Specialists concentrate on developing safety protocols and analyzing incidents. Both roles require FAA certifications and are vital for maintaining aviation safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Flight Operations Inspectors, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Flight Operations Inspectors often face challenges such as staying current with ever-evolving aviation regulations, handling high-pressure audits, and balancing administrative duties with on-site inspections. New hires can prepare by developing strong organizational skills, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of aviation standards, and building effective communication with airline staff and regulatory bodies. Being proactive about ongoing professional development and fostering a detail-oriented mindset can help navigate these challenges and ensure safe, compliant flight operations.

What are Flight Operations Inspectors?

Flight Operations Inspectors are aviation professionals responsible for ensuring that airlines and other flight operators comply with safety regulations and operational standards set by aviation authorities. They conduct inspections of aircraft, review flight procedures, evaluate crew qualifications, and monitor airline operations to ensure compliance with national and international aviation laws. Their work helps maintain the safety and efficiency of commercial and cargo flight operations. Flight Operations Inspectors often have significant experience as pilots or in other aviation roles before taking on this regulatory position.
What cities near Santa Ana, CA are hiring for Flight Operations Inspector jobs? Cities near Santa Ana, CA with the most Flight Operations Inspector job openings:

Operations Inspector

Thales

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Thales rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Location: Irvine, United States of AmericaThales people architect solutions that enable two-thirds of planes to take off and land safely. We create in-flight entertainment systems that engross 50 million fliers every year and we develop the avionics that control the world's largest commercial aircrafts. Our simulators train the next generation of pilots for fighter jets, transporters and search and rescue helicopters. And, together, each and every member of our aerospace team makes a difference.

Operations Inspector

Irvine, CA (Onsite)

Position Summary

Thales is looking for an Operations Inspector to provide detailed inspection and assessment of data related to failure in an effort to identify process failures and recommend improvements to avoid failures. This position will also perform the duties of the Thales Cosmetic Inspection process in Production and RMA and oversee In Process and Final Visual Inspections on Thales Production/RMA product lines, as needed. The Operations Inspector will manually inspect finished products for failures modes (except documentation related gaps) ensuring products leave the facility according to Thales Quality Standards for items which can be monitored after ATP is final (cosmetic, packaging, assembly etc.). This includes removing any container whose contents shows evidence of contamination with visible foreign matter or other defects that have been established by the company's inspection training.

In this position, you will also focus is on improving product quality while reducing spend, simplifying and improving processes, maintaining correct documentation and maintaining the highest of ethical standards.

Key Areas of Responsibility

  • Ensure all quality assurance and quality control practices, processes, and procedures are adhered to, including safe work policies and procedures; guide the team toward continuous improvement quality goals by following processes and adhering to the highest ethical standards.
  • Document inspection results by completing reports and logs, summarizing re-work and waste, inputting data into the quality database, and completing associated paperwork accurately and timely, which may require specified methodology or data analysis.
  • Verify and communicate inspection results and make entries into the appropriate print or electronic media required to ensure the validity and traceability of information.
  • Engage, communicate, and coordinate with RMA, Production, Engineering, Receiving Inspection, and other company personnel to analyze and resolve active concerns and promote the smooth exercise of assigned duties.
  • Assist with rework activities to ensure reworked product meets set specifications; participate in inventory counts as needed; and work in other areas of Packaging as required, including hand packing and kit assembly.
  • Maintain work areas, records, and equipment in a clean, organized, and functional condition by implementing 6S standards where possible; provide job assistance to train assemblers and support cross-training activities as requested by management; and perform other duties as assigned by management.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High School Diploma/GED with a minimum of 3+ yrs of quality inspection experience in a production/manufacturing environment.
  • Must possess experience with quality control techniques and quality assurance skill set with a personal drive to improve product; Demonstrated highly detailed inspection skills and able to effectively prioritize and organize workload with efficient time management.
  • Experience applying standard troubleshooting practices using various test equipment.
  • Proficient with MS Word and Excel Spreadsheets for use on a daily basis to record, report, and relay important information.
  • Ability to read and interpret assembly drawings and E.O (Engineering Order) instructions; Ability to follow written and/or verbal instructions, production schedule and adapt to changes based on the company production demands required.
  • Must have excellent communication and problem-solving skills, and fundamental knowledge of conflict resolution; Ability to work in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment with shifting priorities and demanding deadlines while maintaining a positive and professional attitude.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer at the time of hire. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or for assuming sponsorship of an employment visa now or in the future.

If you're excited about working with Thales, but not meeting the requirements for this position, we encourage you to join our Talent Community!

Special Position Requirements

  • Schedule: 5:30 am to 1:30 pm, Monday through Friday; May be required to work overtime during the week and some weekends with short notice as business need requires.
  • Physical Environment: Primarily manufacturing/production area; occasionally warehouse.
  • Physical Demands: Regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear; Frequently is required to stand, walk, and sit / Occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; Regularly lift and/or move up to 10 lbs. / Frequently lift and/or move up to 25 lbs. / Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.; Close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Regulatory Compliance Requirements: None.

Why Join Us?

Say HI and learn more about working at Thales click here.

#LI-Onsite

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This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with [a] criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal law, state law, and local ordinances.

We are an equal opportunity employer, including disability and veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.


If you need an accommodation or assistance in order to apply for a position with Thales, please contact us at talentacquisition@us.thalesgroup.com.

The reference Total Target Compensation (TTC) market range for this position, inclusive of annual base salary and the variable compensation target, is between

Total Target Cash (TTC) 45,348.75 - 79,849.00 USD Annual

This reflects how companies in a similar industry and geographic region generally pay for similar jobs. This range helps the Company make pay decisions as one data point among many. Where a position falls within this range is also dependent on other factors including - but not limited to - the employee's career path history, competencies, skills and performance, as well as the company's annual salary budget, the customer's program requirements, and the company's internal equity. Thales may offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant's status protected by local, state, or federal law.

(For Internal candidate, if you need more information, please reach out to your HR Shared Service, 1st Point)

Thales provides an extensive benefits program for all full-time employees working 30 or more hours per week and their eligible dependents, including the following:


Elective Health, Dental, Vision, FSA/HSA, Voluntary Life and AD&D, Whole Group Life w/LTC, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, Legal Plan, Identity Theft, and Pet Insurance

Retirement Savings Plan after 30 days of employment with a company contribution and a match, and with no vesting period

Company paid holidays and Paid Time Off

Company provided Life Insurance, AD&D, Disability, Employee Assistance Plan, and Well-being Program


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