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Inspection Authorization Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Aircraft Inspector

Houston, TX · On-site

$61K - $80K/yr

... and Inspection Authorization (IA). - Minimum 5 years of aviation maintenance and inspection experience, with strong background in corporate/business aircraft. - Preferred experience with aircraft ...

The A&P Aircraft Mechanic with Inspection Authorization (IA) is responsible for performing scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on flight school aircraft while ensuring all work is completed in ...

Aircraft Inspector

Dallas, TX · On-site

$38/hr

FAA Inspection Authorization (IA). * Avionics certification such as NCATT or FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License. * Experience working in an FAA Part 145 Repair Station or aerospace ...

New

Airframe Inspector, A&P

Houston, TX · On-site

$55K - $72K/yr

Inspection Authorization (IA) Certification * Previous experience performing return-to-service inspections on corporate aircraft. * Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) certification, experience or training.

Airframe Inspector, A&P

Houston, TX · On-site

$55K - $72K/yr

Inspection Authorization (IA) Certification * Previous experience performing return-to-service inspections on corporate aircraft. * Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) certification, experience or training.

Valid FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) required. * Ability to obtain a government flight line driver's license. * Possess a valid United States driver's license. * Possess the experience and ability ...

Valid FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) required. * Ability to obtain a government flight line driver's license. * Possess a valid United States driver's license. * Possess the experience and ability ...

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Inspection Authorization information

See Texas salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do inspection authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for inspection authorization in Texas is $21.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

How do you become an inspection authorization?

To become an inspection authorization, a person must hold a valid mechanic certificate with an airframe and powerplant rating, have at least three years of practical experience in aircraft maintenance, and pass a written and practical inspection authorization exam administered by the relevant aviation authority. Maintaining ongoing experience and adhering to regulatory requirements are also necessary to retain the authorization.
Infographic showing various Inspection Authorization job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,249 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Aviation Quality Inspector

Uvalde, TX

Cross Resource Group
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees

$50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

MRO Quality Inspector

Location: Uvalde, Texas

Position Type: Aircraft Maintenance / Quality Inspection



Take Your Aviation Quality Career to the Next Level

We are seeking an experienced MRO Quality Inspector to join an aircraft maintenance and Repair Station operation.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced FAA-certified A&P mechanic or aviation Quality Inspector who takes pride in doing things the right way. You will play a critical role in ensuring aircraft maintenance, repairs, alterations, inspections, and documentation meet FAA regulations, approved technical data, customer requirements, and Repair Station procedures.

If you have strong aircraft maintenance experience, know your way around FAA requirements, and aren't afraid to stop or reject work when it doesn't meet airworthiness or Quality standards, we want to hear from you.


FAA A&P certification is required. Inspection Authorization (IA) is preferred.

What You'll Do

As an MRO Quality Inspector, you will work closely with technicians, Crew Chiefs, Maintenance Management, Engineering, and Quality personnel to ensure aircraft are maintained safely and in compliance with applicable requirements.

Your responsibilities will include:

  • Perform incoming, in-process, preliminary, hidden-damage, and final inspections.
  • Inspect aircraft, engines, components, systems, repairs, alterations, and completed maintenance work.
  • Verify maintenance and alterations comply with current manufacturer manuals, approved or acceptable FAA data, engineering documentation, and company procedures.
  • Review work orders, task cards, inspection records, maintenance records, and supporting documentation for accuracy and completeness.
  • Verify maintenance records are properly completed prior to aircraft approval for return to service when authorized.
  • Ensure Required Inspection Items (RII), when applicable, are properly identified, inspected, documented, and signed off.
  • Inspect parts, materials, and components for condition, identification, traceability, certification, and installation eligibility.
  • Verify compliance with applicable Airworthiness Directives, service information, engineering orders, Supplemental Type Certificates, and other approved technical data.
  • Assist with conformity inspections involving aircraft modifications, repairs, alterations, and certification projects.
  • Identify and document discrepancies or nonconforming conditions and ensure they are resolved before approval.
  • Verify maintenance personnel are using current and applicable technical data.
  • Support internal audits, FAA surveillance, customer audits, corrective actions, and other regulatory compliance activities.
  • Assist with investigations and corrective actions involving Quality findings, documentation errors, procedural noncompliance, and Quality escapes.
  • Maintain inspection stamps, authorizations, records, and required Quality documentation.
  • Promote a strong safety and Quality culture throughout the operation.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

  • Current FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certificate
  • Minimum 5 years of relevant aircraft maintenance, inspection, or Quality experience
  • Working knowledge of FAA Repair Station operations and regulatory requirements
  • Strong understanding of aircraft maintenance practices, inspections, maintenance documentation, and airworthiness requirements
  • Ability to read and interpret aircraft maintenance manuals, illustrated parts catalogs, wiring diagrams, service bulletins, Airworthiness Directives, engineering drawings, and other technical data
  • Strong understanding of aircraft maintenance recordkeeping requirements
  • Ability to identify discrepancies and determine whether completed work meets applicable technical and regulatory requirements
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
  • Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment on inspection and airworthiness matters
  • Professional communication skills when working with maintenance personnel, management, customers, and regulatory representatives
  • Ability to maintain all FAA certificates, authorizations, and qualifications required for the position

Even Better If You Have

  • Current FAA Inspection Authorization (IA)
  • 5–10 years of aviation maintenance and/or Quality Inspection experience
  • Previous experience in an FAA-certificated Repair Station
  • Business jet maintenance and inspection experience
  • Experience with Cessna Citation, Learjet, or similar business aircraft
  • Part 135 maintenance or inspection experience
  • Experience with major repairs, major alterations, STCs, conformity inspections, and FAA Form 337 documentation
  • Experience participating in FAA, customer, or internal Quality audits

Knowledge & Skills That Will Help You Succeed

  • Knowledge of 14 CFR Parts 43, 65, and 145
  • Familiarity with Part 135 requirements
  • Strong aircraft troubleshooting and inspection skills
  • Excellent documentation accuracy and attention to detail
  • Ability to recognize unsafe, unairworthy, or noncompliant conditions
  • Confidence to professionally stop or reject work that doesn't meet regulatory, technical, or company requirements
  • Strong organization and time-management skills
  • Ability to prioritize multiple aircraft and maintenance projects in a fast-paced MRO environment
  • Professional judgment, integrity, and commitment to aviation safety
  • Ability to clearly communicate inspection findings while maintaining Quality standards

Your Quality Authority

Quality and airworthiness come first.

In this role, you will have the responsibility to exercise independent Quality judgment within your assigned inspection authority. You are expected to identify, document, and reject maintenance or documentation that does not comply with regulatory requirements, approved technical data, or Repair Station procedures.

Production schedules, customer expectations, and operational pressures do not supersede airworthiness, safety, or regulatory requirements.

Physical & Work Environment

This is a hands-on position in an aircraft maintenance and Repair Station environment. The role requires the ability to:

  • Stand and walk for extended periods
  • Bend, kneel, stoop, reach, and work in confined aircraft spaces
  • Climb aircraft stairs, ladders, and maintenance stands
  • Work underneath, inside, and around aircraft
  • Use inspection equipment, hand tools, flashlights, mirrors, and related equipment
  • Lift and carry up to 50 pounds when required
  • Work in hangar, ramp, and outdoor environments with varying temperatures, noise levels, and weather conditions
  • Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)

The work environment may include exposure to aircraft noise, moving equipment, chemicals, oils, fuels, and other conditions associated with aviation maintenance operations.

Benefits

In addition to compensation commensurate with experience, benefits include:

  • Select paid holidays
  • Paid vacation
  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Life insurance
  • Accidental insurance
  • Hospital indemnity insurance
  • Critical Illness Plan
  • Telemedicine plan

Ready to Apply?

If you're an experienced A&P mechanic or aviation Quality Inspector who values safety, accuracy, regulatory compliance, and high-quality aircraft maintenance, we encourage you to apply.

Required: FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certificate

Preferred: FAA Inspection Authorization (IA)