Maintenance Controller

Job Title: Maintenance Controller

Location: Chicagoland Area / Remote candidates will also be considered

About Priester Aviation

Priester Aviation is a premier aviation services company providing comprehensive aircraft management, charter, maintenance, and flight operations solutions. With decades of experience supporting owner-managed and client-focused flight departments, we are known for our commitment to safety, professionalism, and white-glove service.

Our team operates in a dynamic Part 135 and Part 91 environment, supporting diverse aircraft types and mission profiles across the U.S. and internationally. At Priester Aviation, we value integrity, collaboration, and accountability and we take pride in building long-term careers within aviation.

Position Summary:

The Maintenance Controller is responsible for managing and coordinating all maintenance activities during Part 135 charter operations, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft fleet. This role ensures that all scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activities are completed in a timely manner, while also supporting the compliance of aircraft with FAA regulations. The Maintenance Controller plays a crucial role in minimizing operational interruptions and ensuring the airworthiness of the fleet.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Maintenance Coordination : Manage and coordinate all scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activities to ensure minimal operational downtime. Act as the liaison between flight operations and the maintenance department to communicate aircraft availability and maintenance status.
• Discrepancy Management : Accept and approve aircraft discrepancies reported by flight crews and maintenance vendors, ensuring all issues are resolved promptly. Provide oversight for mechanical issues and work with teams to expedite repairs.
• Aircraft Logistics : Coordinate parts, manpower, and travel arrangements for field repairs. Oversee aircraft logistics between Maintenance Control and Flight Operations, ensuring that aircraft are properly positioned for repairs and returned to service promptly.
• Documentation & Compliance : Review and approve all maintenance release documents, ensuring compliance with the General Maintenance Manual (GMM) and FAA regulations. Initiate Return to Service procedures after verifying that maintenance activities have been completed correctly.
• Maintenance Scheduling : Maintain an up-to-date understanding of the daily and long-term maintenance schedule, coordinating scheduled maintenance and aligning unscheduled repairs into the operational workflow. Ensure that all required maintenance tasks, inspections, and tests are performed according to company and regulatory standards.
• Regulatory Oversight : Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, airworthiness directives, and service bulletins. Assist with vendor audits and participate in Continuous Analysis and Surveillance System (CASS) meetings to assess the reliability and effectiveness of maintenance programs.
• Communication & Collaboration : Serve as the primary point of contact between maintenance personnel, flight crews, and dispatch regarding aircraft maintenance status. Ensure that all relevant departments are informed of aircraft availability and maintenance progress.
• Other Responsibilities : Assist in maintaining, revising, and controlling the GMM, RVSM Manual, MEL Manual, NEF Program Manual, and other maintenance documents. Perform other duties as assigned by senior management.

Required or Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience :
  • Minimum 3-5 years of experience in aviation maintenance, with a focus on maintenance control and Part 135 or Part 121 operations.
  • Experience managing maintenance activities and coordinating unscheduled repairs.
  • Knowledge of FAA regulations and aviation safety standards.
• Certifications :
  • FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) License required.
  • Inspection Authorization (IA) preferred.
• Skills :
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to manage multiple maintenance activities simultaneously.
  • Excellent communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make decisions under pressure.
  • Proficiency in using maintenance tracking software (e.g., CAMP, AVTRAK) and Microsoft Office products.
• Education :
  • Bachelor's degree in Aviation Maintenance, Aviation Management, or related field preferred, or 3-5 years of equivalent work experience.

This is an exempt position which requires flexibility to meet the demands of business.