Aircraft Inspector

Job Description - Aircraft Inspector )

This position is an Aircraft Inspector for the Aviation Bureau and is responsible for inspecting, maintaining and repairing department aircraft, aircraft components, and aircraft support equipment to ensure airworthiness according to department policies and federal and state laws. Duties also include performing critical airworthiness inspections of department aircraft, aircraft components, and aircraft support equipment; conducting purchasing and maintaining inventories to ensure the department’s air fleet is maintained in compliance with federal, state and department procurement and inventory tracking requirements;

to ensure operational safety and legal compliance of department fixed and rotary wing aircraft. The position reports directly to the Aircraft Bureau Chief and does not supervise other staff.

Assist in performing critical airworthiness inspections of department aircraft, aircraft components, and aircraft support equipment to provide the most efficient and safe maintenance program possible and to ensure compliance with State of Montana and FWP air operation policies, and manufacturer and department requirements and FAA regulations.

Maintain the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks fleet of 8 aircraft - 4 helicopters and 4 airplanes and will be expected to maintain the helicopters per factory specifications and will be required to be school trained in the make and model aircraft. These aircraft are located in Kalispell, Billings, Dillon, and Lewistown.

This position requires knowledge of the principles and practices of fixed and rotary wing flight; aircraft maintenance and inspection; of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance; and aircraft test program practices and procedures. The position requires knowledge of advanced fixed and rotary wing aircraft maintenance and repair methods and specifications; aviation procurement specifications and policies; if required, and state laws, policies, and operating procedures;

the use of aircraft and aviation equipment in fire and forest management; specialized supply and equipment procurement processes; special knowledge of Airbus AS350 helicopters maintenance; must be trained to factory school requirements program; and the effect/wear and tear on aircraft of specialized mission piloting techniques such as low altitude flying, vertical reference long line, instrument flying, mountain flying, and landing aircraft in adverse conditions;

meteorological conditions and fire behavior and their impact on aviation.

The position requires skill in discerning potential damage or wear to critical components; performing detailed inspections; organizing and reviewing work orders to determine priorities; troubleshooting maintenance malfunctions; and the operation of specialized aircraft and aircraft component testing equipment.

This position requires the ability to make quick and sound decisions regarding airworthiness that directly impact human safety; assess complex issues affecting all facets of the repair and safe operation of assigned aircraft; communicating effectively, implementing new technology and methods on a statewide basis; develop and organize procedures; and quickly and accurately making safety assessments.

The required knowledge, skills and abilities are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited manufacturer’s or trade school focusing on aviation technology; and two to three (2-3) years responsible experience.

The position requires the following certifications:

• FAA-Certified Airframe and Powerplant Technician
• FAA Certified Inspection Authorization

The incumbent must remain run-up qualified in the following aircraft:

• Helicopters – AS350B2, B3, MD500

This position requires an FAA Airframe and Powerplant certified mechanic with an inspector authorization (IA) as it is the only mechanic for the Dept of Fish Wildlife and Parks.

Preferred:

• Airbus H125/AS350 factory school trained
• Private pilot certificate to travel…