Director of Interior Modifications and Aircraft Exterior Paint - Standard Aero

Director of Interior Modifications and Aircraft Exterior Paint

Springfield, IL 

Build an Aviation Career You’re Proud Of

Build your career with integrity by working at a company that doesn’t just treat you like a number. You’ll get the tools to do things right in a clean and safe work environment and the trust to fix any issue that comes your way. Work with your team to implement the right processes and practices across our organization to help ensure flight and product efficiency and quality.

As Director of Interior Modifications and Aircraft Exterior Paint, you will oversee and manage all aspects of our interiors department, including the paint shop, upholstery, design, and cabinet making. You will work closely with a talented team to deliver exceptional interior finishes that exceed customer expectations while maintaining compliance with FAA regulations. This role demands a focus on quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement to ensure our aircraft interiors reflect the finest craftsmanship in the industry.

What you’ll do:

• Lead and oversee daily operations of the interiors department, including paint, upholstery, design, and cabinet making, ensuring projects are delivered on time and to the highest quality standards.
• Manage a team of skilled technicians, designers, and managers, promoting a culture of safety, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement.
• Plan and direct the production process to ensure high-quality interior installations, repairs, and refinishing of aircraft interiors.
• Coordinate with other departments such as quality control, engineering, and customer service to address challenges, streamline operations, and meet project deadlines.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure compliance with FAA regulations, customer specifications, and internal quality standards.
• Maintain a safe work environment by enforcing 6S and housekeeping standards, leading root cause analysis, and conducting safety audits.
• Monitor work-in-progress (WIP) and allocate resources to ensure projects are completed within budget and to customer satisfaction.
• Review customer quotes, ensuring competitiveness, profitability, and alignment with company goals.
• Act as a key point of contact for technical questions and status updates on interior projects.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean methodologies, to enhance operational efficiency and employee engagement.
• Lead capacity planning efforts, ensuring the department is equipped with the necessary tools, labor, and space to meet future demands.
• Provide technical training and development for employees, ensuring high standards of workmanship.
• Foster a positive work environment that encourages collaboration, inclusion, and employee satisfaction.

Position Requirements:     

• Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
• Bachelor’s Degree or related field and/or equivalent experience in aviation or a manufacturing environment.
• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience, ideally within aviation interiors or a similar field.
• Demonstrated expertise in overseeing interior-related departments such as paint, upholstery, design, and cabinet making.
• Strong P&L management experience, with the ability to track and manage budgets effectively.
• Strong focus on safety and 6S
• Proven ability to lead and develop large teams while driving operational excellence and change management.
• Familiarity with FAA regulations and standards relevant to aircraft interiors.
• Strong customer service orientation with the ability to balance customer demands with business objectives.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot technical challenges in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage at all levels of the organization.
• Experience with Lean initiatives and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong organizational and planning abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Benefits that make life better:

• Comprehensive Healthcare
• 401(k) with 100% company match; up to 5% vested
• Paid Time Off starting on day one
• Bonus opportunities
• Health- & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Short- & Long-Term Disability
• Life & AD&D Insurance
• Learning & Training opportunities