What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager, Aircraft Maintenance position at Wheels Up?
Overview
Join Our Team at Wheels Up
At Wheels Up, we're proud to be a global leader in on-demand private aviation. As one of the largest companies in the industry and a strategic partner of Delta Air Lines – we are committed to making private air travel safe, reliable, and enjoyable. With a diverse fleet of owned aircraft plus a global network of trusted charter operators, we offer our customers access to the right aircraft for their needs and the ability to fly on their terms.
And it doesn’t stop at private flights. Wheels Up also provides freight services, safety and security solutions, and managed services to individuals, businesses, government agencies, and more. Regardless of how, when or where you want to fly, our mission is simple; deliver a premium, personalized aviation experience for every customer.
Role Overview: What You’ll Be Doing
Wheels Up is looking for a world-class Manager of Aircraft Maintenance in Middle River, MD to join our team of dedicated and passionate professionals, fueled by the most powerful brand in private aviation, as we continue our mission of democratizing the private aviation space through cutting-edge technology and innovative product and service offerings.
Responsibilities
Your Key Responsibilities (Essential Functions)
- Manage all maintenance work that is being performed on company operated aircraft while on duty.
- Ensure that all aircraft maintenance scheduled to be accomplished is completed in the most efficient and economical means possible while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
- Coordinate all daily maintenance tasks and events with Maintenance Control to ensure the most effective utilization of assigned personnel and provide regular updates as to the status of work in progress.
- Perform maintenance, preventative maintenance, and alterations on company operated aircraft in a professional manner and in accordance with company policies, procedures, the manufacturer’s maintenance manuals, and applicable FARs.
- Ensure that all required entries on the appropriate maintenance forms are made in regard to the worked accomplished.
- Make recommendations to the VP of Maintenance concerning all areas of the Maintenance Department where he/she feels there is a need for change, or their experience dictates a need to revise Company policies and procedures.
- Ensure that the work area and equipment used by assigned personnel is adequate and kept in a clean and orderly condition and that all safety instructions are followed.
- May delegate functions to other qualified persons by utilizing any means of communications but retains the responsibilities.
- Must be knowledgeable of Delta Private Jets Company Manuals, aircraft, applicable FARs, and Operations Specifications.
- Manage recruiting by reviewing applications, conducting phone and in-person interviews, and extending offers.
- Provide direction, coaching, and professional development to employees with an individual and team focus.
- Build individual and team competencies with ongoing positive and constructive feedback, as well as thorough annual performance evaluations.
- Establish individual and team goals and objectives; develop metrics and scorecards to monitor progress and achievement.
- Use appropriate methods to help build a cohesive team; facilitating the completion of team goals.
- Administer counseling, commendation, or disciplinary actions when necessary, using proper documentation.
- Perform other duties and/or special projects as assigned.
Qualifications
What You Bring to the Table: Education & Certification Requirements
We’re looking for someone who has a unique mix of experience, skills, and passion for what we do:
- Must hold a valid FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certificate
- Minimum 5–7 years hands-on experience in aircraft maintenance, with strong proficiency on Embraer 300 (Phenom 300).
- Prior leadership/supervisory experience in a Part 145 Repair Station or Part 135 operation.
- Understanding of inspection processes, MEL/CDL procedures, logbook entries, and compliance with FAA regulations.
- Proven ability to lead a team of technicians and shift leads, preferably in a high-tempo environment.
- Comfortable coaching, mentoring, and holding the team accountable for safety, quality, and productivity.
- Able to foster a positive work culture that balances urgency with compliance.
- Experience with labor planning and managing shift coverage.
- Strong understanding of operational KPIs: aircraft availability, schedule reliability, return to service time, etc.
- Capable of coordinating with Materials, Planning, QA, and Flight Operations teams.
- Familiar with maintenance tracking systems (e.g., CAMP, Corridor, or similar).
- Solution-oriented and calm under pressure — able to lead during AOG situations.
- High sense of urgency, but prioritizes safety and compliance first.
- Excellent communication skills (verbal and written); able to interface with Flight Operations, MX Control, Vendors, and internal/external auditors.
- Adaptable and collaborative — fits well within a high-performance, safety-driven, and customer-focused culture.
The Extras We Value (Preferred Requirements)
While not mandatory, here are some additional things that would make you stand out:
- Prior experience working with Mobile Service Units (MSUs) is a plus.
- Exposure to managing vendor relationships and third-party maintenance support.
- Experience leading safety stand-downs or daily safety briefings is highly desirable.
Wheels Up Story
What We Offer: Salary Range & Benefits
At Wheels Up, we believe in fair compensation based on experience, skills, and qualifications. The salary for this role ranges from $105,000 to $175,000, depending on a variety of factors. We don’t typically start individuals at the top of the salary range; your place within the range is based on what you bring to the table. Additionally, you may be eligible for a discretionary annual incentive program, which rewards individual and organizational performance.
We also offer a range of benefits designed to support your well-being and personal life, including:
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Competitive 401(k)
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Complimentary access to mental health and wellness counseling through Spring Health
- Financial planning assistance through WellCents
- A variety of additional programs and services in support of your total well-being
Everyone is welcome here
Each of us is unique, and that’s what makes us amazing. We believe there’s power in bringing people with different backgrounds, points of view and life experiences together. So, bring yourself and your best ideas. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO). All applicants are considered regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation.
Because when we feel safe and comfortable being ourselves, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.
Need Accommodations?
If you have a disability or are a disabled veteran and need assistance with applying, please reach out to us at hr@wheelsup.com. Simply include “Accommodation Request” in the subject line so we can quickly address your needs.
We look forward to learning more about you and how you can contribute to the Wheels Up journey!
Salary : $105,000 - $175,000