Volantes Technical Recruitment Ltd
Cairns, Cairns Regional, Queensland
Aircraft Maintenance Engineers
Aircraft Maintenance Manager
Onsite
Full time
2 days ago
Engineering Manager (MRO – Fixed Wing)
Our Australia based client is seeking an experienced Engineering Manager / Chief Engineer to lead its Fixed Wing MRO operation based in Cairns. This is a senior leadership role with full responsibility for the Engineering Department, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient delivery of base and heavy maintenance activities.
The role also holds Responsible Manager (RM) accountability with CASA, making this a key appointment within the organisation. While preference is for candidates already based in Australia or the wider APAC region, Skytek is open to relocating exceptional overseas candidates with the right MRO and leadership background.
Key Responsibilities
* Overall leadership and management of the Engineering Department (10–15 staff)
* Responsible Manager duties with CASA under Part 145
* Ensure compliance with CASA regulations, MOE, and Part 145 MOS
* Oversee Base and Heavy Maintenance inputs across the fleet
* Provide operational leadership to Engineers and Technical Services
* Manage manpower planning, rostering, and fatigue compliance
* Ensure facilities, tooling, equipment, and materials are fit for purpose
* Project manage scheduled maintenance checks and inputs
* Ensure accurate certification, record keeping, and audit readiness
* Lead quoting and costing for maintenance and new projects
* Act as key liaison with CASA, customers, internal stakeholders, and senior management
* Drive safety culture, SMS compliance, and human factors awareness
* Lead performance reviews, toolbox talks, and team meetings
* Support business objectives and continuous improvement initiatives
Essential Requirements
* Proven MRO / Part 145 management experience
* Strong background in Base / Heavy Maintenance
* Experience working on:
o DHC-6 Twin Otter
o King Air
o ATR Series
* Demonstrated leadership of multi-disciplinary engineering teams
* Strong working knowledge of CASA regulatory framework (Part 42, 145, CAR 30)
* Commercial awareness and customer-focused mindset
Desirable Requirements
* Australian CASA Aircraft Maintenance Licence (highly desirable)
* Previous Responsible Manager (RM) experience
* Formal qualification in:
o Aircraft Engineering
o Aviation Management
o Business or equivalent
* Advanced Diploma of Aviation Management (or equivalent competencies)
Skills & Attributes
* Strong leadership and people management capability
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
* High attention to detail and regulatory discipline
* Calm and effective under pressure
* Commercially astute with strong organisational skills
* Positive, professional, and proactive leadership style
Additional Requirements
* Ability to obtain airside security clearance
* Valid Driver's Licence
* Compliance with DAMP policies
* Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
Why Cairns
* Key aviation hub supporting regional and remote operations
* Strong reputation within the Australian aviation maintenance sector
* Opportunity to lead a growing, well-established MRO
* Attractive lifestyle location with relocation support considered for the right candidate
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