Powerplant Program Manager - Military veterans preferred

At Surf Air Mobility, we're transforming air mobility. As innovators in aviation, we are at the forefront of creating a more efficient and accessible flying experience. With our commitment to a customer-first approach, advanced software solutions, and electrification, we’re pioneering new ways for people to travel, making flying not only faster but more enjoyable. Our passionate team thrives in a collaborative environment where innovation and hard work go hand in hand. 

Help us shape the future of aviation while working with cutting-edge technologies that are changing the lives of our passengers.

JOB DESCRIPTION:       POWERPLANT PROGRAM MANAGER

FLSA STAUS:                  EXEMPT

REPORT TO:                   VICE PRESIDENT OF TECHNICAL OPERATIONS

Surf Air Mobility/Southern Airways/Mokulele is seeking an experienced technical program manager to lead our PT6 turboprop engine and propeller program.   The Powerplant Program Manager will be responsible for overseeing all technical and commercial aspects of the engine and propeller program. It is expected that the Aircraft Technical Fleet Manager is a self-starter, acts with great integrity, and consistently strives to improve processes – all while maintaining the highest of standards for professionalism and leadership of self.

The ideal candidate:

• Must provide leadership and direction to powerplant vendors and suppliers.
• Must be agile and highly collaborative with a focus on teamwork and partnership.
• Serves as the liaison to the corporate headquarters.
• Must be familiar with and able to enforce corporate and regulatory standards.
• Has excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be professional in appearance and manner and set a good example for staff.
• Must be experienced in diffusing stressful situations.
• Must be detail-oriented.

General duties include:

The Powerplant Program Manager is responsible for daily oversight and compliance with standards for quality, cost, and execution of the PT6 engine and propeller program.  
 
They are the primary technical support and interface for powerplant vendors through completion of scheduled and unscheduled shop visit in accordance with company and OEM maintenance programs.
 
Included in this responsibility is assuring strict adherence to: conditions set forth in the supplier agreements, budgetary compliance, and reconciliation of all costs associated with the shop visit events
 
Responsible for the overall airworthiness conditions of the PT6 engines and propellers of the fleet. 

Provide technical expertise and support to the aircraft maintenance department including supporting engine and propeller related AOG events

It is expected that the Powerplant Program Manager is a self-starter, acts with great integrity, and consistently strives to improve processes – all while maintaining the highest of standards for professionalism and leadership of self.

Acting as focal company interface with engine and propeller supplier’s leadership team, overseeing all facets of quality, production, and financial performance

Conduct vendor audit in accordance with company’s quality assurance program.

Assume primary liaison role within the company in technical matters relating to the PT6 engine and propeller program and interfacing with functional groups such as planning, supply chain, quality control, engineering, etc.

Review and reconcile financial invoices and pursue cost savings opportunities for materials and labor efficiencies

Developing, implementing, and monitoring PT6 engine and propeller maintenance management plans to improve shop Turn Around Time and minimize costs.

Own and manage the PT6 engine and propeller budgets and ensure they are in line with legal and safety regulations

Perform On-The-Job technical training on PT6 engine and propeller maintenance practices, company policies, safety procedures and general information where required.

Participate in industry conferences and workshops.

Support special projects as assigned by VP of Technical Operations.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Minimum of 3 years of technical knowledge of the PT6 engine and all its variances 
• Minimum of 3 years of program management experience in a Part 121/135/145 operation
• Familiarity of aircraft maintenance and inspection programs
• Prior supervisory/management experience
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Proficient in computer skills such as Microsoft Office suite and Google suite
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Is at least 21 years of age and has authorization to work in the United States
• Ability to read, write and speak English effectively
• Ability to work within a 24/7 operation including holidays
• Ability to pass 10-year background check and pre-employment drug screen as required by company and/or airline regulations
• Available for occasional overnight travel  

Physical requirements:

• Must be comfortable lifting/moving 70lbs.
• Must have physical dexterity sufficient to perform repetitive tasks and motions, including bending at the waist and knees, squatting, kneeling, crawling, twisting, and sustaining those positions for extended amounts of time.
• Must have sufficient vision and ability to safely perform duties.

 Preferred Qualifications: 

• FAA Powerplant license
• Bachelor’s degree in aviation or engineering or related field
• Current passport
• Familiarity with aviation maintenance management software such as Flightdoc, TRAX, or other platforms
• Knowledge supply chain, finance, Safety Management Systems (SMS)

 Benefits: 

Competitive Salary: Attractive compensation package based on experience. 

Health & Wellness: After 30 days of employment on the 1st of the next month, you are eligible to sign up for medical, dental, and vision insurance, air ambulance coverage, short-term disability, pet insurance, health savings accounts, and company-paid life insurance. 

Retirement Plans: Employees can enroll in our company’s 401(k) plan. 

Generous PTO: After completion of your probationary period, employees earn 1 day of PTO per month, plus paid holidays throughout the calendar year. 

Employee Discounts: After completion of your probationary period, you can access the My ID Travel program, which allows members of your immediate family to participate as well. This program provides travel privileges, including: 

• Flight tickets at significant discount, employee and family members can fly our planes (standby space available)
• Discounts on hotels and resorts
• Car rentals at reduced rates
• Discounted cruises

Addison Office Amenities include: full free on site gym, two indoor pickleball courts, game tables in lobby, on-site day care through Kinder Care, on-site coffee shop, on-site café, free underground parking, easy access to Tollway and George Bush, and great location near restaurants in Addison.

At Surf Air Mobility, we are committed to building a more inclusive ecosystem that integrates women, people of color, and other underrepresented groups into the cleantech sector and aerospace industry. We strongly encourage applications from qualified applicants and members of underrepresented groups. Surf Air Mobility is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Surf Air Mobility is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Surf Air Mobility participates in E-Verify. 

Surf Air Mobility is an EEO/AAP employer and as such all qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin - and will not be discriminated against on the basis of gender, race, or disability.