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Senior Manager Engineering Authorization ( EA) - Plan and Execution

by United Airlines

Job role insights

Date Posted

October 9, 2026

Employment Type

Full Time

Salary Range

Negotiable

Cost of Living

View details for Chicago

Locations

Chicago, Illinois

Application Deadline

November 8, 2026

Description

At United, we have some of the best aircraft in the world. Our Technical Operations team is full of aircraft maintenance technicians, engineers, planners, ground equipment and facilities professionals, and supply chain teams that help make sure they’re well taken care of and ready to get our customers to their desired destinations. If you’re ready to work on our planes, join our Tech Ops experts and help keep our fleet in tip-top shape.

Job Overview and Responsibilities

The Sr Manager Engineering Authorization (EA) Planning & Execution will lead a team of 7 in the management of United operations fleet projects. They will ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. This role owns all aspects of Engineering Authorizations (EA) project execution, from planning and resource allocation to risk management and stakeholder communication. A key role is to collaborate with stakeholders (i.e., Engineering, Supply Chain, and Line and Base Planning) to maximize execution efforts. A keen focus on Process Improvement and Development of Digital Tools / Systems and KPIs will be required.

  • Develop realistic project timelines, monitor progress, and take corrective actions to ensure projects are completed on time with quality and safety at the forefront of decisions made.
  • Identify potential risks, develop mitigation strategies, and address risks proactively to minimize their impact on the projects.
  • Manage project changes to scope, schedule or budget to keep projects on track.
  • Identify and resolve problems effectively.
  • Establish clear project execution objectives, defining scope of work, creating detailed plans, and identifying project milestones.
  • Maintain clear and effective communication with stakeholders, team members, and management ensuring satisfactory reporting and operating rhythms.
  • Define resource (labor / supply chain) requirements against overall fleet projects and work locations to ensure timely and effective project execution.
  • Engage in AFE approval process for project budget, track cost and ensure projects are completed within allocated budget.
  • Motivate and lead Project Planning Teams, foster collaboration amongst stakeholders, and ensure team members are engaged and productive.

What’s needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications)

  • Bachelor's degree or related experience in Aviation Management, Business, Engineering, Aircraft Maintenance, or related field.
  • 5+ years of leadership experience in operations, strategy, planning, forecasting, engineering, or Continuous Improvement.
  • 5 years’ experience in managing multiple complex projects in aviation.
  • Leadership and Management, Technical Expertise, Problem Solving, Communication and Collaboration, Data Analysis, Crisis Management, and continuous improvement.
  • Adept in building presentations for senior leadership team, juggling several projects and initiatives simultaneously through appropriate prioritization.
  • Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact at all levels (including executive) and team with all internal and external business partners.
  • Strong Project Management, Engineering, and Finance skills.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship.
  • Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification.
  • Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position.

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications)

  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or project management.
  • Airframe & Powerplant License, Project Management Professional (PMP).
  • Experience in Airline Maintenance planning and analysis functions.
  • Leadership experience in a technical operation environment.
  • LEAN and A3 Problem solving.

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law.

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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.

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