Job Title : Chief Inspector
Location : Bristol, CT
Reports To : Accountable Manager / General Manager
We are seeking a experienced and detail-driven Chief Inspector to lead the inspection, airworthiness determination, and quality control functions for our newly established FAA Part 145 repair station, focused on CFM56 and V2500 engine accessories. This role serves as the senior regulatory authority within the repair station, ensuring that all inspection and maintenance activities comply with FAA, EASA, and OEM requirements.
As Prime continues to grow, a key strategic goal is to obtain EASA 145 certification under the BASA / MAG pathway. The Chief Inspector will play a central role in this effortleading the development of the EASA Detailed Compliance Table (DCT), enhancing documentation and systems to meet EU regulatory deltas, and preparing the repair station for dual FAA / EASA release capability.
This position requires a builder mindset, capable of establishing and managing the entire inspection system, training program, forms, and compliance infrastructure in a startup environment, while ensuring readiness for FAA Safety Assurance System (SAS) surveillance and foreign authority audits using the FAA Data Collection Tools (DCTs).
Key Responsibilities :Regulatory Oversight & AirworthinessServe as the final authority for determining airworthiness of articles prior to Return to Service (RTS)Ensure full compliance with 14 CFR Part 145, Part 43, and applicable CMMs, SBs, ADs, and ACsMaintain and update RSM, QCM, OpSpecs, and supplements in alignment with FAA SAS and DCT audit elementsInterface with the FAA PMI and serve as the primary contact during SAS inspections, OpSpecs amendments, and capability list expansionsEstablish the framework and readiness for future Safety Management System (SMS) implementationEASA Certification ReadinessLead the development and ongoing maintenance of the EASA Detailed Compliance Table (DCT)Ensure all manuals and systems meet EASA Part 145.A.70 and Maintenance Annex Guidance (MAG CHG 8) expectationsDrive efforts for EASA 145 certification acquisition, including FAA liaison, compliance mapping, and audit preparationImplement any EASA-specific requirements, such as certifying staff competency, subcontractor management, and dual-release RTS documentationServe as audit lead for EASA or foreign authority inspections, ensuring objective evidence is available and properly cross-referencedInspection System & Technical SupportOversee all receiving, preliminary, in-process, and final inspections, including conformity checks and test validationsApprove and audit inspector qualifications, OJT, and annual proficiencyMaintain the calibration program in compliance with ANSI Z540.3 and FAA expectationsSupport nonconformance management, MRB reviews, and repair deviations in coordination with Engineering and QualityEnsure complete and audit-ready records, traceability, and documentStartup Environment & Quality System BuildingDevelop and deploy all inspection protocols, ERP-based forms, and quality documentationCollaborate cross-functionally to ensure airworthiness data is embedded in shop travelers, routings, and test proceduresAssist in test stand readiness, rotable pool traceability, and first article inspectionsAlign internal audit systems and inspection protocols with the structure of FAA Data Collection Tools (DCTs) and EASA audit standardsPreferred Qualifications :Education & Credentials :FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License requiredAbility to apply for an FAA Repairman Certificate upon hire or prior designation as Chief Inspector under Part 145 preferredHuman Factors, Hazmat, and FAA Drug & Alcohol Program compliance (or eligible to complete immediately)Experience :510+ years in aviation MRO, with at least 3 years in an inspection system leadership roleDemonstrated oversight of FAA Part 145 repair station functions, including RTSActive participation in FAA SAS audits using the Data Collection Tool (DCT)Knowledge of EASA Part 145, BASA / MAG certification, and experience maintaining the EASA Detailed Compliance Table (DCT)Familiarity with CFM56 / V2500 accessory MRO (e.g., HMUs, actuators, fuel nozzles, oil pumps)Previous experience handling foreign authority audits, dual release protocols, or international quality systemsSystems & Technical Skills :Proficiency in interpreting OEM CMMs, FAA Orders, EASA guidance, SBs, ADs, and IPCsExperience managing inspection programs within ERP systems such as Quantum ControlWorking knowledge of precision inspection tools, calibration systems, and MRB processesMicrosoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); experience with digital recordkeeping and audit preparationFamiliarity with AS9110, ISO 9001, or related QMS frameworksCore Competencies :Regulatory Compliance & Airworthiness Leadership (FAA & EASA)Inspection Program Design & Audit ReadinessDocumentation Control & Technical AccuracyStartup Flexibility & Quality System OwnershipCross-Functional Collaboration & CommunicationAdditional Requirements :Fluency in written and spoken English is requiredU.S. persons only, per ITAR regulationsEnrollment in an FAA Drug & Alcohol Testing Program is mandatoryMust pass pre-employment background check and DOT-compliant drug screenAbout Prime Engine Accessories LLC :Prime is a newly established FAA Part 145 Repair Station, focused on MRO of CFM56 and V2500 engine accessoriesincluding HMUs, fuel nozzles, pumps, and actuators. We are actively pursuing EASA certification and are investing in world-class infrastructure, quality systems, and a high-performing team. The Chief Inspector will play a pivotal role in establishing a robust inspection program that meets the highest regulatory and customer standards.
Job Type : Full-time
Benefits :
401(k)401(k) matchingDental insuranceEmployee assistance programHealth insuranceHealth savings accountLife insurancePaid time offTuition reimbursementVision insuranceWork Location : In person
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