Technical Advisor - MRO in Aurora, Oregon at Columbia Helicopters, Inc.

For over 65 years, Columbia Helicopters have been a trusted provider of heavy-lift helicopter services. We create new aircraft, fly heavy-lift helicopters around the world, and provide maintenance support to ensure you are mission-ready for critical operations. If you are passionate about aviation, join our Columbia Family!

The Technical Advisor – MRO is responsible for strengthening technical capability, training, and execution within the MRO. This role establishes and leads a formal training program for new hires, provides hands-on technical support to diagnose and resolve engine issues, and partners with shop leadership to improve throughput, quality, and first-pass yield. The position serves as a subject matter expert (SME) bridging training, production, and test cell performance.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

• Training Program Development & Execution (60%)
• • Design, implement, and maintain a structured training program for all new MRO hires
  • Develop standardized training materials, work instructions, and certification pathways aligned with CHI and FAA requirements
  • Conduct hands-on training for new hires to ensure technical competency and safety compliance
  • Track training progress and maintain accurate records of qualifications and certifications

Technical Troubleshooting & Test Cell Support (10%)

• • Lead root cause analysis for engines that fail test cell requirements
  • Partner with technicians, engineering, and quality teams to diagnose issues and implement corrective actions
  • Provide real-time technical guidance during engine build, teardown, and testing processes
  • Ensure lessons learned are documented and incorporated into training and standard work

Production Support & Throughput Improvement (10%)

• • Support engine assembly activities as needed to maintain workflow and meet production targets
  • Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in engine build and test processes
  • Recommend and implement process improvements to increase throughput and reduce rework
  • Partner with Planning and Supply Chain to ensure material readiness and workflow continuity

Mentorship & Leadership Development (10%)

• • Mentor and coach MRO Supervisors on technical decision-making, workforce development, and shop execution
  • Support development of leads and technicians to build bench strength and technical depth
  • Reinforce CHI core values, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and accountability

Compliance & Documentation (10%)

• • Ensure all work performed meets CHI standards, FAA regulations, and customer requirements
  • Support accurate documentation of work orders, test results, and repair records within ERP systems (e.g., Ramco)
  • Assist in audits and ensure adherence to approved process plans and procedures

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU:

• 20+ years of experience in turbine engine maintenance, overhaul, and test cell operations, specifically with CT58, T55 (714), and T55 (5512) engines
• Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis capability, particularly related to engine performance and test cell failures
• Proven experience training and developing technicians in a production/MRO environment
• Deep understanding of FAA regulations, maintenance documentation, and compliance requirements
• Experience working within ERP systems (e.g., Ramco) for work order tracking and documentation
• Ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Planning, and Supply Chain

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Technical expertise and problem-solving
• Instruction and coaching ability
• Operational execution and urgency
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Strong communication and leadership influence

WHAT YOU WILL LOVE ABOUT WORKING HERE:

At Columbia, we believe great people do their best work when they feel supported, challenged, and valued. We’re more than a workplace, we’re a team built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to doing meaningful work.

Competitive Pay & Strong Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial wellness, and work–life balance. Depending on your role, this may include medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans with company contributions, paid time off, and employee wellness resources.

Growth & Career Development

We invest in our people. From training and development opportunities to internal mobility and leadership support, Columbia encourages continuous learning and long-term career growth.

Purpose-Driven Culture

Your work matters here. Every role contributes to our broader mission, and we believe in empowering employees to make an impact, share ideas, and help shape the future of the company.

A Team That Has Your Back

We foster a collaborative, inclusive environment where people are respected, encouraged, and supported. You’ll work alongside talented teammates who care about doing great work, and doing it together.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)