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Inspection Authorization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prioritized Must Have Skills for the A&P Aircraft Mechanic: #1. FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License and Inspection Authorization (IA) required. #2. Minimum 3 recent and consecutive years of ...

Prioritized Must Have Skills for the A&P Aircraft Mechanic: #1. FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License and Inspection Authorization (IA) required. #2. Minimum 3 recent and consecutive years of ...

A&P Aircraft Mechanic I.A

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$28.25 - $37.25/hr

We are seeking an experienced A&P Mechanic with Inspection Authorization (IA) to perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on a fleet of flight training aircraft. This role is responsible for ...

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Inspection Authorization information

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How much do inspection authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for inspection authorization in the United States is $22.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals with Inspection Authorization (IA)?

Inspection Authorization holders often encounter the challenge of staying current with ever-evolving FAA regulations and ensuring meticulous compliance during inspections. The role requires detailed documentation, critical decision-making, and sometimes working under tight deadlines, especially when aircraft need a quick turnaround. Additionally, IA professionals frequently collaborate with maintenance technicians and management to resolve complex airworthiness issues, making strong communication skills important. Keeping up with recurrent training and regulatory updates is essential for maintaining the authorization and delivering safe, high-quality oversight.

What is the difference between Inspection Authorization vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectInspection AuthorizationAircraft Maintenance Technician
Required CredentialsFAA Inspection Authorization (IA) certificationFAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate
Work EnvironmentAuthorized to perform and approve inspections on aircraftPerforms maintenance, repairs, and inspections on aircraft
Employer & Industry UsageAircraft repair stations, airlines, and maintenance facilitiesMaintenance shops, airlines, and repair stations

Inspection Authorization (IA) is a certification that allows an individual to perform and approve major aircraft inspections, while an Aircraft Maintenance Technician (A&P) holds a certification to perform general maintenance and repairs. The IA credential is typically held by experienced A&P technicians who have additional qualifications. Both roles are essential in the aviation industry, but the IA specifically authorizes the holder to approve aircraft for return to service after inspections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Inspection Authorization (IA), and why are they important?

To thrive as an Inspection Authorization (IA) in aviation, you need an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate, additional FAA IA certification, in-depth knowledge of aircraft systems, and a strong understanding of regulatory compliance. Familiarity with aviation maintenance documentation, logbook entries, and compliance-tracking software is essential. Strong attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication help ensure accurate inspections and clear reporting. These skills and qualifications are crucial to guarantee aircraft safety, regulatory adherence, and operational reliability.

What is an Inspection Authorization (IA)?

An Inspection Authorization (IA) is a special certification granted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to experienced and qualified Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics. This authorization allows the holder to perform and approve major repairs, major alterations, and conduct annual inspections of aircraft. IAs are responsible for ensuring that aircraft meet all safety and regulatory standards before returning them to service. To obtain an IA, mechanics must meet specific experience requirements, pass a written exam, and renew their authorization periodically. This certification enhances a mechanic's career by allowing them to take on greater responsibilities and specialized tasks in aircraft maintenance.
More about Inspection Authorization jobs
What cities are hiring for Inspection Authorization jobs? Cities with the most Inspection Authorization job openings:
What states have the most Inspection Authorization jobs? States with the most job openings for Inspection Authorization jobs include:
Infographic showing various Inspection Authorization job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,496 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

A&P Mechanic - Inspection Authorization - Arizona

GAL AeroStaff

Phoenix, AZ

$28.50 - $37.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

GAL AeroStaff Ltd. is an aerospace staffing company specializing in temporary and permanent staffing for general and technical positions in the aviation and aerospace industry.

In keeping with this goal, each benefit program has been carefully developed. Benefits may include medical coverage, paid holidays, state-mandated sick leave, and assignment-related compensation. We continuously evaluate our benefits and policies to meet current and future requirements.

Position – Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic with Inspection Authorization

Location: Phoenix, AZ

We are currently seeking experienced Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics with an active Inspection Authorization to support the scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of flight school aircraft.

The A&P Mechanic will perform maintenance, troubleshooting, inspections, repairs, and return-to-service activities in accordance with company procedures, approved technical data, and applicable Federal Aviation Administration regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on flight school and general aviation aircraft
  • Troubleshoot, inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft in accordance with approved technical data and FAA regulations
  • Perform inspections and make airworthiness determinations within the authority of the mechanic's A&P license and Inspection Authorization
  • Read and interpret maintenance manuals, parts catalogs, engineering drawings, service bulletins, and airworthiness directives
  • Complete aircraft logbook entries and release aircraft for return to service
  • Ensure compliance with Title 14 CFR Parts 43 and 91
  • Manage assigned workflow and adjust priorities according to flight school operational requirements
  • Coordinate with maintenance leadership, technicians, and flight operations personnel
  • Operate applicable shop equipment, tools, vehicles, and aircraft as required
  • Maintain accurate and complete maintenance documentation
  • Keep work areas clean, safe, and organized
  • Work assigned shifts based on operational requirements
  • Follow all company safety procedures and quality standards
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Competencies

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

  • Technical Knowledge – Understands general aviation maintenance, inspection, and return-to-service requirements
  • Airworthiness Judgment – Makes sound and compliant maintenance decisions
  • Attention to Detail – Performs accurate work and maintains complete documentation
  • Problem Solving – Diagnoses aircraft discrepancies and determines appropriate corrective actions
  • Communication – Communicates clearly with technicians, leadership, and flight operations personnel
  • Initiative – Works independently and identifies productive tasks without continuous direction
  • Teamwork – Supports coworkers and contributes to an effective maintenance operation
  • Adaptability – Responds effectively to changing flight school priorities and instructions
  • Safety – Follows established safety procedures and promotes a safe work environment

Summary of Education, Experience and Certification

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

  • Valid FAA Airframe and Powerplant license required at the time of hire
  • Active FAA Inspection Authorization required
  • Minimum three recent and consecutive years of general aviation maintenance experience as a certificated A&P Mechanic required
  • Experience maintaining Piper aircraft preferred
  • Garmin G1000 experience is considered an asset

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Strong knowledge of general aviation aircraft maintenance and inspection practices
  • Knowledge of Title 14 CFR Parts 43 and 91
  • Ability to independently make airworthiness and return-to-service decisions
  • Ability to perform scheduled and unscheduled aircraft maintenance
  • Ability to troubleshoot airframe, powerplant, electrical, and mechanical discrepancies
  • Ability to read and understand approved technical and regulatory documentation
  • Experience completing aircraft logbook entries and maintenance records
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong interpersonal and team-building skills
  • Ability to manage workflow and adjust priorities as needed
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications
  • Ability to learn and use the Talon RMS computerized maintenance system
  • Ability to work day or night shifts as required

Schedule

  • Full-time
  • 10-hour shifts
  • Day and night shifts
  • Flexibility to work different shifts based on operational requirements

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The employee will work in hangar, ramp, office, and outdoor aircraft maintenance environments. The position may involve exposure to aircraft, simulators, shop equipment, solvents, aviation gasoline, noise, and changing weather conditions.

The employee may be required to sit or stand for extended periods and frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, and work in various physical positions.

The employee must be able to lift and move items weighing up to 50 pounds.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Benefits

Benefits vary depending on employment status, assignment, and eligibility.

GAL AeroStaff Contract Employee Benefits

Eligible GAL AeroStaff contract employees may receive:

  • Medical benefits after 90 days of employment
  • Three paid holidays per year after 90 days of employment: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day
  • State-mandated sick leave, where applicable
  • Travel pay, when applicable to the assignment
  • Per diem split, when applicable to the assignment
  • Access to a 401(k) plan

Any employer 401(k) contribution or match is discretionary and is not guaranteed. GAL AeroStaff does not provide company-wide vacation or sick leave beyond applicable state-mandated requirements.

Benefits Upon Direct Hire

Employees who transition to direct employment with the client may be eligible for:

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Flexible spending account
  • Employee assistance program
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) company matching
  • Retirement plan

All direct-hire benefits are administered by the client and are subject to its eligibility requirements and plan terms.