Senior Maintenance Manager at Jet Aviation – Ohakea

Location: Ohakea, RNZAF Ohakea Base, NZ, 4816
Flexible Work Arrangement: Onsite
Career Level: Management
Requisition Id: 5474
Your Opportunity

Reporting to the Ohakea Program Manager, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring all Maintenance Repair Organisation (MRO) activities are delivered to the highest standards under the Airworthiness Regulatory framework. You will oversee hangar operations, resource planning, personnel, materials, tooling, and equipment, ensuring seamless program delivery and compliance with Jet Aviation's policies, regulatory requirements, and contractual obligations. This is your chance to make a significant impact within a respected global aviation brand, working closely with the Contracting Authority and contributing to the operational success of a key defence program.

Your Responsibilities

• Leadership and Team Development:
  Lead, coach, and develop maintenance personnel, providing regular feedback and support to ensure high performance and accountability. Address deficiencies promptly and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Operational Oversight:
  Manage daily operations of the Ohakea Program Facility, including hangar planning, resource allocation (people, materials, equipment), and oversight of subcontractors and logistics. Ensure all activities align with contractual and site obligations.
• Audit and Compliance:
  Lead proactive responses to internal and external audit findings, implementing corrective actions and ensuring ongoing compliance with regulatory and company standards.
• Planning and Resource Management:
  Oversee the effective planning and allocation of manpower, materials, and equipment to meet maintenance schedules, customer expectations, and financial targets. Review job packs for accuracy and regulatory compliance.
• Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
  Monitor aircraft availability and maintenance progress in collaboration with CAMO, providing regular updates to senior leadership and stakeholders. Address unscheduled impacts and ensure timely completion of maintenance activities.
• Customer and Stakeholder Engagement:
  Serve as a key point of contact for customer queries and complaints, contribute to establishing work scopes, and provide regular updates on maintenance status, risks, and critical issues.
• Financial and Contractual Management:
  Support budget planning and financial performance in conjunction with senior leadership. Engage in contractual management to ensure compliance and achievement of performance outcomes.
• Continuous Improvement:
  Lead and track continuous improvement initiatives, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to enhance contract delivery and operational efficiency.
• Administrative Oversight:
  Approve employee leave and training, delegate and review survey and quote activities, and ensure accurate documentation and invoicing processes.
• Collaboration and Teamwork:
  Work closely with the Ohakea Program Manager and be an active member of the senior management team, contributing to strategic decisions and operational success.
• Other Duties:
  Perform additional tasks as required to support operational excellence and the success of Jet Aviation.

What will help you to succeed?

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or Aeronautical Engineering (or equivalent), with at least 5 years' engineering experience; or a diploma/chartered status in a related aviation field.
• Strong familiarity with industry maintenance practices and commercial aspects within aviation.
• Ability to interpret and apply military and civil airworthiness requirements, regulations, and industry frameworks.
• Solid understanding of project and risk management principles, with proven problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills, able to engage technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong business acumen, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
• Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team, ideally within a matrix or large enterprise environment.
• Forward-thinking, with a focus on translating business priorities into action and inspiring others to embrace change.
• Experience in Defence or Defence Industry environments is highly regarded.

Why Jet Aviation?

At Jet Aviation, you'll join a global team dedicated to excellence, safety, and service. We offer:

• Competitive remuneration and professional growth opportunities
• Permanent, full-time position
• Access to training and development programs
• A supportive, inclusive environment within a respected global aviation brand
• The opportunity to contribute to the operational success of the Royal New Zealand Air Force's 42 Squadron King Air fleet

How to Apply?

Please submit:

• Confirmation of your legal right to work in New Zealand and ability to obtain a security clearance
• A 1-2 page cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications
• An updated CV
• Copies of relevant supporting documentation

Please note: Current Jet Aviation employees should apply direct via JA SuccessFactors under 'Careers'.

Pre-Employment Assessment

As part of the selection process, you may be required to complete:

• Pre-employment medical assessment (including drug and alcohol testing)
• National Police/Criminal History Check
• Security clearance eligibility assessment

Equal Employment Opportunity has been, and will continue to be, a fundamental principle at Jet Aviation, where individuals are hired, employed, recognized, and advance based upon their individual skills and abilities and without regard to an individual’s race, color, national origin, age, religion, physical or mental disability status, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), status as a protected veteran or any status or characteristic protected from employment discrimination under applicable federal, state and local laws (“EEO status”). This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, recruitment and hiring, compensation, benefits, promotions, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, and opportunities for training and advancement.