Maintenance Operations Manager in Richmond, Virginia at Vantage Aviation FCI

About Vantage Aviation:

Vantage is a fully integrated, multi-vertical business aviation firm that specializes in all things’ private aviation. Hangar leasing, fuel and ground handling support, aircraft management and charter services, flight training schools, and turbine maintenance services are all within our scope of capability and expertise. Vantage Aviation is a private equity backed, fully integrated business aviation firm pursuing FBO, MRO, and 135 charter acquisitions and development opportunities throughout North America.

We seek opportunities where airport sponsors and their aviation stakeholders can benefit from our highly integrated, full-service offering. Our menus of services meet the highest Minimum Standards of Service within the industry, allowing us to provide a better service for all those who enjoy the benefits of general and business aviation.

Position Summary:

The Maintenance Operations Manager plays a critical leadership role within the maintenance department. This position is responsible for managing scheduling, profitability, implementation of Standard Operating Procedures, and ensuring operational efficiency across maintenance projects. The role provides strategic direction, leadership oversight, and hands-on operational management to ensure compliance with FAA regulations and company policies while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and productivity.

Essential Responsibilities & Duties:

• Coordinate with management to develop and implement strategic maintenance initiatives that support operational efficiency and business growth
• Evaluate shop and customer needs to determine equipment, staffing, and training requirements
• Lead, train, and supervise maintenance personnel while fostering a cohesive and productive team environment
• Mentor team members and encourage professional growth through delegation, guidance, and continuous education
• Negotiate contracts with outside vendors to support maintenance activities
• Ensure work assignments are established prior to crew start times to maximize productivity
• Oversee maintenance operations to ensure compliance with applicable technical data, FAA regulations (including 14 CFR requirements), and company policies and procedures
• Perform and oversee maintenance, inspection, and Inspector functions as required
• Ensure all aircraft maintenance is properly documented on appropriate work cards and forms
• Maintain oversight of work-in-progress, completed tasks, and remaining maintenance items to ensure proper documentation and timely completion
• Track labor hours and work order performance to ensure accurate logging and adherence to budget parameters
• Open and manage work orders, initiate service orders, procure parts, and coordinate outside services as needed
• Ensure that removed aircraft parts and components are properly documented, tagged, and protected
• Research permanent records, maintenance tracking programs, FAA Airworthiness Directives, and manufacturer bulletins to ensure continued airworthiness
• Update and interface with computerized maintenance tracking systems
• Support and actively participate in the Safety Management System (SMS), including corrective actions and preventative measures
• Review discrepancies with Customer Service to determine cost estimates and projected downtime
• Manage technician on-call schedules to ensure proper coverage
• Ensure company facilities are maintained in a safe, clean, and professional condition
• Implement and enforce workplace safety policies and promote a quality-focused culture of safety
• Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and clear communication while building trust and respect across departments
• Lead by example and remain committed to achieving operational excellence
• Perform administrative duties as required
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certificate
• Thorough knowledge of aircraft mechanical troubleshooting, repair procedures, and component replacement
• Thorough knowledge of aircraft sheet metal/structural modification and repair
• Minimum 5 years of aviation experience maintaining corporate/commercial aircraft under Part 135 or Part 145 repair station operations
• Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Lead Mechanic or Inspector
• Experience managing technicians in a supervisory role
• Piston and turbine aircraft experience
• Ability to determine airworthiness status
• Ability to provide technical support to staff and customers
• Fluent in English
• Basic computer skills
• Ability to work in and around an aviation hangar and comply with airport/ramp safety rules
• Able to pass a background check and drug screen

Preferred Qualifications:

• FAA Inspection Authorization (IA)
• Experience with computerized maintenance tracking systems
• Experience working within a Safety Management System (SMS) framework
• Corridor experience preferred

Travel Requirements:

• Primarily based at the assigned maintenance facility
• Occasional travel as required to support aircraft maintenance operations

Working Conditions & Physical Demands:

• Work performed in and around aviation hangars and ramp environments with moving mechanical parts, equipment, chemicals, and fumes
• Knowledge of airport rules, including ramp and aircraft movement areas
• Frequent standing, reaching, stooping, and working in confined spaces
• Occasional to frequent lifting, pushing, or pulling between 25–100 pounds
• Exposure to varying environmental conditions

Compensation & Benefits:

• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• HSA with company match on applicable plans
• Company paid Short Term Disability and Basic Life and AD&D
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• On Demand Pay
• Employee Assistance Program

Confidentiality & Discloser:

Vantage Aviation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state or local laws. This job description outlines the essential functions of the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions without imposing undue hardship on the organization. If you require reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process, or to perform the essential functions of this position, please contact HR@vantageair.com. We are here to support you.

Vantage Aviation is committed to a safe and productive work environment and operates as a drug- and alcohol-free workplace. Employees must report to work free from any substance that could impair job performance. Drug and alcohol testing may be required in accordance with law and company policy, including for reasonable suspicion or following a workplace accident or injury. Violations may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.