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Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician

by West Star Aviation

Job role insights

Date Posted

September 1, 2026

Employment Type

Full Time

Salary Range

$32–$58/hr (≈$66.6K–$120.6K/yr)

Cost of Living

View details for Chicago

Locations

Chicago, Illinois

Application Deadline

October 1, 2026

Description

West Star is the fastest growing maintenance repair organization in the industry and we recognize this is the result of our talented team of trusted employees working together to deliver customer service excellence. We are committed to providing our employees with personal and professional growth opportunities while fostering a culture of respect and well-being with a small company feel.

When you join our team, we don’t think you should have to wait for your benefits to kick in. That’s why when you start, they start with you! This includes medical, dental, 401K match, time off accruals, weekly pay days and much more. We don’t want you to live to work, we want you to work and live.

Overview

What you can expect as a Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician at West Star:

As a Lead, your main focus will be centered on leading a team of technicians to produce timely results that are of the highest quality and accuracy. The most successful individuals will be highly analytical, inquiring and have a critical mind. This job requires imagination and strong problem solving skills, with a strong technical orientation. Getting the job done and getting it done right are the two equal drivers for this position. Effectively utilizing manpower and directing project flow will be your primary function.

Key Responsibilities

You will be ESSENTIAL to many FUNCTIONS including:

  • Lead the team to complete necessary jobs/tasks, using good judgement in handling day-to-day tasks and knowing when to involve your manager.
  • Implement a strong turnover of work to the next shift.
  • Look for opportunities to reduce turn time of aircraft within your area of responsibility.
  • Help to train/mentor technicians assigned to your projects.
  • Supervise team members in daily work load.
  • Work independently on projects and lead multiple projects as assigned, demonstrating excellent drive and initiative.
  • Perform general mechanical functions on aircraft and related systems, including removal and installation of panels and components, repair work, and sheet metal repair or installation.
  • Troubleshoot and evaluate systems on the aircraft when designated.
  • Inspect and evaluate the aircraft and components when designated.
  • Conduct aircraft movement, performance runs, and taxiing when required.
  • Maintain and repair shop facility, equipment, and tooling to support operations.
  • Work with customers in project management, pricing, and support roles.
  • Effectively and clearly communicate in English (i.e., speak, write, read).
  • Perform any other job-related duties as assigned by supervisor or management.

Requirements/Qualifications

Your Education:

  • A High school diploma or equivalent and Airframe and Powerplant License are required.
  • A valid driver’s license approved for airline travel and/or a valid passport is ideal, but not mandatory.
  • Aircraft-specific factory training is preferred.

Your Experience:

  • 8+ years in aviation maintenance preferred.
  • 4+ years in program-specific airframes.
  • This position requires minimal supervision and will lead small groups in daily tasks.
  • Techs are expected to be subject matter experts and demonstrate comprehensive job knowledge.

Your Initiative:

  • We’re looking for a team player who is self-motivated and able to perform in a fast-paced environment where working under specific deadlines will be common.

Your Sense of Responsibility:

  • Attend work every day as scheduled, including overtime and weekend assignments.
  • Notify supervisor in advance if unable to work.
  • Must have reliable transportation to work each day.
  • Perform all work in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines.
  • Follow all company and safety rules during performance of duties.
  • Maintain customer-oriented work habits.
  • Direct the work and flow of multiple projects.
  • Supervise team members in daily operations and duties.
  • Complete work orders and FAA paperwork.

Other Particulars

Physical Requirements:

  • Lift at least 50 lbs.
  • Routine walking, bending, squatting, or sitting.
  • Routine or repetitive physical motion with arms and hands.
  • Basic personal computer operations.

Mental Requirements:

  • Understanding and implementation of regulations and guidelines.
  • Troubleshoot or evaluate system operation.
  • Work with others in a professional manner.
  • Coordinate projects.
  • Team management skills.

Supervision:

  • Will directly supervise multiple technicians.
  • Will work under the supervision of assigned Team Leader and Operations Manager.
  • Collaborate with other Team Leaders on multiple projects.

Working Conditions:

  • Majority of work will be accomplished in a hangar environment, which can include very hot or very cold temperatures.
  • Outdoor work during aircraft runs will occur.
  • Varied positions in and around the aircraft.

Equipment Used:

  • Personal hand tools supplied by the mechanic.
  • Pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical equipment.
  • Jacks, stands, lifts, and other support devices.
  • Tugs, power carts, and other engine-powered equipment.
  • Personal computer and work order prints.

Compensation & Benefit Information

The following information is disclosed according to state specific requirements. If the position applied to is not in a state with these requirements, the following information may not apply. The hourly rate for this position generally ranges between $32 - $58. Actual hourly rate will vary and may be above or below the range based on various factors including location, experience, and performance. Additional compensation in the form of a shift differential will be provided if assigned to an alternate shift. The range listed is just one component of the total compensation package. Other forms of compensation include a semi-annual discretionary bonus, 401(k) company match, and employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA).

West Star Aviation’s Benefits

  • Benefits Effective Day One for Eligible Employees
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage with Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
  • Life Insurance, Disability Benefits & Supplemental Benefits
  • 401(k) Plan with Employee Contributions & Employer Match
  • Paid Company Holidays & Weekly Paid Time Off Accruals
  • Flexible Work Schedules include 5x8, 4x10, and 3x12
  • Weekly Competitive & Industry Leading Pay
  • Bonus Opportunity based on Company and Site Performance
  • Internal Mobility & Career Advancement opportunities

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AviHire Cost of Living Snapshot: Chicago, Illinois

What aviation pay actually covers in Chicago — AviHire's snapshot of median income, housing, and everyday prices from U.S. Census Bureau data (2023 5-Year ACS estimates).

Median Household Income
$75,134
Median Rent
$1,380/mo
Median Home Value
$315,200
Gasoline (1 gal)
$4.04
Restaurant Meal
$17.79
Milk (1 L)
$1.13
Eggs (dozen)
$2.17

Rent runs about 22.0% of median income in Chicago affordable by the common 30%-of-income guideline.

AviHire Cost of Living Snapshot, compiled from U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2023), with fuel and grocery prices from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.