Job DescriptionPosition SummaryPatriot Aerotech is seeking an experienced
Director of Quality / Chief Inspector to lead and oversee the Quality Management System (QMS) for its
FAA Part 145 Repair Station specializing in
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) services, aviation welding, and aerospace fabrication. Based in
San Antonio, Texas, this leadership role is responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance, operational integrity, and continuous improvement across all inspection, repair, and fabrication activities. The Director of Quality / Chief Inspector serves as the primary authority for airworthiness determinations and acts as the principal liaison with the FAA and customers regarding quality and regulatory matters.
Key ResponsibilitiesRegulatory & Compliance Leadership- Serve as the Chief Inspector as defined under 14 CFR Part 145
- Ensure full compliance with FAA regulations, Repair Station Manual (RSM), Quality Control Manual (QCM), and Operations Specifications
- Act as the primary point of contact with the FAA, including FSDO/MIDO interactions, audits, and surveillance activities
- Maintain and update company manuals, procedures, and training programs to meet regulatory and customer requirements
Quality Management System (QMS)- Develop, implement, and continuously improve the Quality Management System in accordance with FAA, customer, and industry standards
- Oversee internal audits, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), and root cause analysis
- Ensure effective control of nonconforming product, inspection status, and records retention
- Establish and monitor quality metrics to drive performance and compliance
Inspection & Airworthiness Authority- Provide final airworthiness determinations and approval for return to service (RTS)
- Ensure proper inspection, testing, and certification of NDT, welding, and fabrication activities
- Verify personnel qualifications, certifications, and recurrent training for inspectors, NDT personnel, and welders
- Ensure compliance with applicable standards including NAS 410 / SNT-TC-1A, AWS aerospace standards, and approved data
Operational & Cross-Functional Leadership- Collaborate with Engineering, Maintenance, NDT, Welding, and Fabrication teams to ensure quality is embedded throughout operations
- Support contract review and customer quality requirements for commercial, military, and government programs
- Oversee supplier quality, subcontractor approvals, and vendor audits
- Provide guidance and mentorship to quality and inspection personnel
Documentation & Records- Ensure accurate and complete documentation of inspections, repairs, and certifications
- Maintain traceability of materials, processes, and tooling
- Ensure records meet FAA retention requirements and customer contractual obligations
Preferred Qualifications- FAA A&P Certificate
- NDT Level III certification (one or more methods)
- AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
- Experience supporting military, government, or DoD aviation programs
- Familiarity with AS9110 / AS9100 quality systems
Physical & Work Requirements- Ability to work in hangar, shop, and office environments
- Ability to access aircraft, elevated platforms, and fabrication areas as required
- Ability to travel occasionally for audits, training, or customer support
RequirementsRequired Qualifications- Minimum 6 years of aviation maintenance or repair station experience, including 2+ years in a quality or inspection leadership role
- Thorough working knowledge of 14 CFR Part 145 and FAA regulatory requirements
- Experience in NDT services, aviation welding, and aerospace fabrication environments
- Prior experience serving as Chief Inspector or equivalent authority at an FAA Repair Station
- Strong understanding of NAS 410 / ASNT, AWS aerospace welding standards, and approved repair data
- Proven experience managing FAA audits, corrective actions, and regulatory compliance
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
BenefitsWhat Patriot Aerotech Offers- Executive-level leadership role within a growing Part 145 Repair Station
- Competitive compensation commensurate with experience
- Opportunity to shape and strengthen the quality culture of a specialized aviation services organization
- Professional, compliance-driven, and mission-focused work environment
