Manager, Aircraft Maintenance

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. Wheels Up also provides freight services, safety and security solutions, and managed services to individuals, businesses, government agencies, and more.

About the role

Wheels Up is looking for a world-class Manager of Aircraft Maintenance in Elkhart, Indiana 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

• Manage all maintenance work performed on company-operated aircraft while on duty.
• Ensure that all aircraft maintenance 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 effective utilization of assigned personnel and provide regular updates on work progress.
• Perform maintenance, preventative maintenance, and alterations on company-operated aircraft in accordance with company policies, manufacturer’s maintenance manuals, and applicable FARs.
• Ensure all required entries on appropriate maintenance forms are completed for work accomplished.
• Make recommendations to the VP of Maintenance concerning areas of the Maintenance Department where change or revision of Company policies and procedures is needed.
• Ensure the work area and equipment used by assigned personnel are kept in a clean and orderly condition and that all safety instructions are followed.
• Delegate functions to other qualified persons while retaining responsibility.
• Maintain knowledge of Delta Private Jets Company Manuals, aircraft, applicable FARs, and Operations Specifications.
• Manage recruiting by reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and extending offers.
• Provide direction, coaching, and professional development to employees with an individual and team focus.
• Build individual and team competencies through ongoing feedback and annual performance evaluations.
• Establish individual and team goals and objectives; develop metrics and scorecards to monitor progress.
• Use appropriate methods to build a cohesive team and facilitate 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.

Requirements

• 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.

Qualifications

The Extras We Value (Preferred Requirements)

• 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.

Benefits

• 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

Pay

The salary for this role ranges from $119,000 to $161,000, depending on experience, skills, and qualifications. Additionally, you may be eligible for a discretionary annual incentive program, which rewards individual and organizational performance.

Wheels Up is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity for applicants and employees. We apply recruiting, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, and professional development practices without regard to actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.