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Inspection Authorization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inspection Authorization (IA) preferred. * Minimum 10 years of aircraft maintenance experience. * Minimum 5 years of inspection or quality assurance experience. * Extensive knowledge of: * FAR Part ...

Inspection Authorization (IA) preferred * Military aircraft maintenance or inspection experience considered * Must be authorized to work in the United States Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Aircraft Mechanic

Cleveland, MS ยท On-site

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Minimum Qualifications Preferred Qualifications FAA A&P Certificate with Inspection Authorization Special Instructions to Applicants Upload a copy of FAA A&P certificate under the "Other Document ...

Aircraft Inspector

Houston, TX ยท 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 ...

Inspection Authorization (IA) Designation Background in the Aerospace and Defense Industry, the US Department of Defense or US Military Education: * Must-haves: High school diploma or GED equivalent ...

This position directs the Inspection Department, oversees the Continuing Analysis and Surveillance System (CASS), manages RII authorization, and ensures every aircraft on BOND's certificate is ...

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Inspection Authorization information

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How much do inspection authorization jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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) in the aviation industry?

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.

How do I become an FAA inspector?

To become an FAA inspector, candidates typically need a combination of relevant aviation experience, such as pilot or maintenance background, and must meet specific FAA requirements including age, background checks, and medical certification. Applicants usually apply through the FAA's employment portal and may need to pass written exams, interviews, and practical assessments related to aviation safety and regulations.

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.

How much does an inspection authorization make?

An Inspection Authorization (IA) typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. IAs are experienced mechanics authorized to perform aircraft inspections, often working full-time in maintenance environments and requiring certification from the FAA or relevant authority.

Can you make 300k as an A&P mechanic?

An Inspection Authorization (IA) certified A&P mechanic can potentially earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand or supervisory roles. However, typical salaries range from $60,000 to $100,000, and reaching higher income levels often involves overtime, management positions, or owning a business.

What is an inspection authorization?

An inspection authorization is a certification that allows qualified individuals to perform safety and compliance inspections on aircraft or other equipment. It typically requires specific training, experience, and passing relevant exams to ensure proper assessment and adherence to regulations.

What is an Inspection Authorization (IA) in aviation?

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,496 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Chief Inspector

Chief Inspector

Alerion Aviation

Opa Locka, FL โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description

The JetRx Team is growing! We are seeking a safety-minded ย Chief Inspector to join our team in Opa-locka, FL.ย 


The Chief Inspector is responsible for the overall administration and effectiveness of the Quality Control and Inspection System. This position ensures all maintenance, preventive maintenance, alterations, and inspections are accomplished in accordance with FAA regulations, manufacturer instructions, JetRx manuals, and customer requirements.


The Chief Inspector serves as the principal authority for quality assurance and regulatory compliance and has the organizational freedom to identify, investigate, and correct quality issues without compromise.


The ideal candidate is a servant leader who understands that quality exists to support operations-not hinder them. This individual possesses the confidence to make difficult airworthiness decisions, the humility to mentor others, and the integrity to always place safety and compliance ahead of schedule or cost.

Requirements

Quality and Regulatory Oversight

  • Direct and administer the JetRx Quality Control and Inspection System.
  • Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, company manuals, customer requirements, and manufacturer maintenance instructions.
  • Maintain surveillance over all maintenance and inspection activities.
  • Ensure proper completion and retention of maintenance records.
  • Review and approve return-to-service documentation.
  • Monitor aircraft work packages for compliance and completeness.
  • Ensure Required Inspection Items (RII) are properly identified and accomplished.


Inspection Functions

  • Perform or supervise inspections of maintenance, alterations, and preventive maintenance.
  • Verify airworthiness of articles prior to approval ย for return to service.
  • Ensure conformity inspections are completed when required.
  • Verify proper use and calibration of tools and test equipment.
  • Oversee receiving inspections and traceability requirements for parts and materials.
  • Ensure shelf-life and hazardous materials requirements are properly controlled.


Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement

  • Investigate quality escapes, discrepancies, and customer complaints.
  • Conduct root cause analyses and implement corrective actions.
  • Develop and maintain quality metrics and trend monitoring programs.
  • Lead internal audits and self-evaluations.
  • Coordinate FAA audits and inspections.
  • Maintain corrective action tracking and follow-up.
  • Promote a culture of safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement.


Training and Personnel Qualification

  • Ensure inspectors and technicians meet qualification requirements.
  • Review and approve inspector authorizations.
  • Participate in training programs and recurrent qualification activities.
  • Assist with development of technical procedures and ย company policies.
  • Mentor and develop inspection personnel.


Operational Support

  • Coordinate with Production, Logistics, and Customer Service departments to ensure efficient workflow.
  • Provide technical guidance to technicians and supervisors.
  • Support AOG operations and scheduled maintenance events as required.
  • Assist in estimating labor and evaluating findings when necessary.
  • Interface directly with customers, vendors, and regulatory authorities.



REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCEย 

  • FAA Airframe & Powerplant Certificate.
  • Inspection Authorization (IA) preferred.
  • Minimum 10 years of aircraft maintenance experience.
  • Minimum 5 years of inspection or quality assurance ย ย ย ย ย experience.
  • Extensive knowledge of:
    • FAR Part 43
    • FAR Part 65
    • FAR Part 91
    • FAR Part 135
    • FAR Part 145
  • Experience with corporate aircraft maintenance.
  • Strong understanding of maintenance manuals, IPCs, ย wiring diagrams, and regulatory requirements.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to lead teams and make sound airworthiness decisions.
  • Ability to travel for AOG support when required.
  • Must be able to pass a DOT pre-employment urine drug screen and random drug and alcohol screenings in ย accordance with company policy.ย 
  • Must hold a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver's license.ย 
  • Authorized to work in the United States.ย 
  • Must be able to obtain SIDA and/or non-SIDA airport badges by passing a background check ordered by the ย airport.
  • Must be able to pass comprehensive background check including a TSA required fingerprint based criminalย records check in compliance with TSA Security Program Standards and 49 CFR 154.229 and CFR 1544.230

Preferred Experience

Experience with one or more of the following aircraft:ย 

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย - Gulfstream GII/GIII/GIV/GV/G450/G550

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย - Bombardier Challenger and Learjet series

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย - Dassault Falcon series

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย - Hawker series

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย - Beechcraft King Air series

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย - Embraer aircraft


Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to climb ladders and aircraft structures.
  • Ability to work in hangar and ramp environments.
  • Ability to stand, kneel, crawl, and work in confined spaces.






About JetRx

JetRx is a rapidly growing aviation maintenance company specializing in scheduled inspections, troubleshooting, AOG support, and mobile maintenance for corporate aircraft throughout Florida, the Caribbean, and worldwide. We are committed to three core principles: Safety. Integrity. Transparency.


We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Chief Inspector to lead our Quality Department and ensure the highest standards of regulatory compliance, workmanship, and customer confidence.