Soft Goods Crew Lead (CLE)

Crew Lead For Upholstery And Panel Shop

The Crew Lead for the Upholstery and Panel Shop is responsible for leading and coordinating all activities related to the fabrication, assembly, and installation of soft goods and interior panels within custom aircraft interiors. This position ensures that all work meets the highest standards of quality, craftsmanship, and compliance while maintaining alignment with production schedules and expectations.

The Crew Lead oversees a team of skilled technicians across both upholstery and panel departments, managing day-to-day workflow, delegating tasks based on priority and skillset, and providing technical direction as needed. This role requires expertise in aviation upholstery techniques, panel construction, material handling, and a strong understanding of aircraft interior fitment requirements.

As a key leader within the production team, the Crew Lead acts as the main point of contact for interdepartmental coordination, working closely with Engineering, Quality, and Project Management to support the timely and accurate completion of interior projects. This position is also responsible for promoting a safe, organized, and collaborative work environment while driving continuous improvement and team development across both departments.

Essential Job Functions

• Supervise daily operations with the Upholstery Department, ensuring efficient workflow and high-quality output
• Ensure all upholstery work aligns with Process Specifications, safety standards, and quality requirements
• Manage, coach and develop upholstery staff to foster skill growth, accountability, and a team-oriented culture
• Provide clear direction and feedback through regular communication, Performance Evaluations and mentorship
• Plan and coordinate department schedules to meet production timelines
• Prioritize tasks and allocate resources effectively to maintain productivity and minimize downtime
• Assure quality standards are in place throughout all projects
• Utilize the methods set forth by the company's Repair Station, Quality Control Manuals and Process Specifications
• Monitor and manage inventory of materials, supplies and tooling for all projects and tasks
• Coordinate with procurement to ensure timely ordering and availability of materials
• Foster positive team environment
• Demonstrate a continual willingness to learn and serve as a team member
• Willingness to learn, and if needed lead, other Interior Department functions
• Proactively identify strategies to enhance production quality, speed, and cost effectiveness
• Address challenges in real time by troubleshooting issues, adjusting plans, and deploying resources effectively
• Maintain accurate records of work orders, time tracking, and departmental metrics
• Provide regular status updates to Director of Interiors and contribute to strategic planning

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; vocational training or technical certification in upholstery or related field preferred
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in aircraft preferred
• Minimum of 2 years of leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• Proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings, blueprints and work instructions
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a team, delegate tasks effectively, and manage performance
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written
• Able to provide coaching, training and constructive feedback to team members
• Excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritize workloads and meet deadlines
• Must be willing to work overtime as needed to meet production demands
• Dependable, self-motivated and committed to continuous improvement and team success