Aviation Safety Inspector (Airworthiness)

Quick Facts

• Role: Geographic Program Inspector (Airworthiness)

• Focus: Inspections and surveillance of air carriers/air operators under 14 CFR within a geographic area

Description

The Aviation Safety Inspector (Airworthiness) supports the geographic program by establishing work programs within manpower and budget limits and conducting inspections and surveillance on air carriers/air operators operating under 14 CFR. The inspector reviews operations manuals, monitors maintenance and avionics surveillance, and evaluates compliance through on-site activities and record reviews. The role also includes enforcement actions, certification-related assignments, and investigation support as requested by the Principal Inspector.

Responsibilities

• Geographic flight/office activities: ensure operators are properly organized, staffed, equipped, and have adequate training and recordkeeping; maintain contact with local management; coordinate with the Principal Inspector on deficiencies

• Enforcement and reporting: conduct enforcement actions; prepare final reports and recommendations; perform or supervise emergency suspension of certificates/cancellation of flight operation specifications

• Certification support: conduct/review reexamination of certificated airmen; review and assess adequacy of operations manuals for compliance with 14 CFR; recommend manual amendments

• Surveillance: monitor maintenance and/or avionics surveillance phases; assess overhaul/repair facilities, equipment, inspection programs/records, personnel training, and station/program compliance

• Maintenance and vendor oversight: inspect and evaluate contract maintenance against the approved maintenance program; advise changes; inspect refueling and servicing vendors for industry standards and compliance with operator manuals

• Technical support and investigations: investigate public complaints, congressional inquiries, and aircraft incidents/accidents; provide technical assistance to legal counsel; support court trials/formal hearings as needed; perform avionics system analysis independently or as part of a team

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship required

• Selective Service registration required for eligible males

• Submit SF50; meet security requirements

• Meet OPM qualification standards, including English fluency, valid state driver’s license, and medical/physical requirements

• FAA avionics-focused qualifications for Aviation Safety Inspector (Airworthiness): maintenance/repair/troubleshooting of installed avionics on aircraft with >12,500 lb maximum certificated takeoff weight; plus repair station/air carrier repair/military repair/government agency avionics work (including auditing/supervision) within the last 3 years

• At least 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to FV-H, FG/GS-12 (including investigating and reporting on accidents, incidents, and violations)

Benefits

• Comprehensive U.S. government federal employee benefits package (eligibility depends on position type and full-time/part-time status)

• May include COLA/locality pay and other federal benefit options (per applicable program details)