Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of technological advancement, the emphasis on Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisors has never been more critical.
The aviation industry soars to new heights, and with each flight, the demand for skilled leaders who can oversee, optimize, and maintain our aircraft production processes grows significantly.
But let’s delve a bit deeper: What’s truly expected from an Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager designing the perfect job profile,
- Or simply intrigued by the intricate dynamics of aircraft manufacturing,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor Duties and Responsibilities
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisors oversee the manufacturing process of aircrafts and aircraft components.
Their responsibilities are centered around ensuring that production plans are efficiently carried out, maintaining the quality of products, and ensuring the safety and productivity of their team.
The specific duties and responsibilities of an Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor include:
- Overseeing the assembly, manufacturing, and maintenance processes of aircraft and aircraft components
- Ensuring compliance with all relevant safety and quality standards, including FAA regulations
- Coordinating and scheduling work activities, and assigning tasks to team members
- Supervising, training, and evaluating staff performance
- Inspecting and approving the quality of finished products
- Resolving technical issues and escalating complex problems to appropriate personnel
- Maintaining accurate production records and reports
- Communicating effectively with team members, higher management, and other departments
- Ensuring equipment and tools are properly maintained and safe to use
- Implementing and enforcing lean manufacturing principles to optimize production efficiency
- Participating in the development and implementation of production plans and schedules
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a highly capable aircraft manufacturing supervisor to oversee our manufacturing team’s daily operations.
You will be ensuring that all production targets and quality standards are met, enforcing safety regulations, and managing team performance.
The ideal candidate should have strong leadership skills, be detail-oriented, and have a keen understanding of aircraft manufacturing processes.
A background in aeronautical engineering or a related field will be highly beneficial.
Responsibilities
- Supervising and coordinating the activities of the manufacturing team
- Enforcing safety procedures and regulations
- Ensuring that all production targets are met on time and are of the highest quality
- Training and mentoring staff to improve performance
- Inspecting and approving the work of the team
- Managing production schedules and deadlines
- Identifying and resolving production problems
- Communicating with other departments and stakeholders effectively
- Implementing new procedures and standards to improve production efficiency
- Assessing the performance of the team and individuals
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a manufacturing supervisor, preferably in the aviation industry
- Thorough knowledge of production procedures and quality control standards
- Excellent leadership and organizational abilities
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Ability to manage and coordinate multiple projects
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
- BSc degree in Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related field
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor
- Work Environment: This role requires work in a manufacturing environment. Protective equipment may be required.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Manufacturing Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor Do?
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisors work primarily in the aerospace industry, overseeing the production and assembly of various aircraft parts and systems.
Their job is to plan, direct and coordinate the activities of their team, which includes aircraft assemblers, technicians and other manufacturing professionals.
They must ensure that manufacturing processes are conducted in accordance with specified standards and safety regulations.
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisors are responsible for analyzing and resolving work problems, inspecting products to verify conformance to specifications, and enforcing adherence to quality standards.
They also work closely with engineers and designers to review blueprints and technical specifications, making sure that the manufacturing process aligns with the design objectives.
Additionally, they are in charge of scheduling and coordinating work assignments, monitoring production progress, and managing budgets and resources.
These supervisors may also be required to train new employees and evaluate the performance of their team members.
Their role is critical in maintaining efficiency in the production process, minimizing defects, and ensuring that the finished product meets all necessary requirements, which contributes to aircraft safety and reliability.
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor Qualifications and Skills
An Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor should possess the following qualifications and skills that align with the responsibilities of the role:
- Comprehensive knowledge of aircraft manufacturing processes and techniques to effectively oversee the assembly and production of aircraft and aircraft parts
- Strong leadership and management skills to effectively oversee, motivate and guide a team of technicians, ensuring that they are completing work efficiently and to a high standard
- Excellent problem-solving abilities to quickly identify and rectify any issues that may arise during the manufacturing process
- Familiarity with aviation standards and regulations to ensure all work is compliant and meets industry safety standards
- Strong communication skills to effectively liaise with team members, upper management, and clients
- Attention to detail to ensure that all components are assembled correctly and defects are identified and rectified promptly
- Physical endurance to spend long hours on the manufacturing floor, and the ability to work in noisy, potentially hazardous environments
- Technical skills to understand blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals
- Ability to use various tools and equipment used in the aircraft manufacturing process
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor Experience Requirements
For the role of an Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor, experience requirements are usually specific and demanding due to the intricacy and importance of the work.
Entry-level candidates should ideally possess a degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering and have at least 2 to 3 years of experience in aircraft manufacturing or a related field.
This can be obtained through internships, cooperative education programs (co-ops), or entry-level positions in the aerospace industry.
Mid-level candidates are typically required to have 5 to 7 years of experience in aircraft manufacturing.
During this time, they should have developed their technical skills, gained a deep understanding of the manufacturing process, and become familiar with the industry’s safety procedures and quality control standards.
Candidates for senior-level positions, such as an Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor, should have at least 10 years of experience in the field.
This experience should include a significant portion of time spent in supervisory or managerial roles, demonstrating the ability to lead teams, manage projects, and ensure the production process runs smoothly and efficiently.
In addition to the direct work experience, it is also beneficial for candidates to possess certifications from recognized aviation bodies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
These certifications attest to a candidate’s professional competencies and their commitment to maintaining industry standards.
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor Education and Training Requirements
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisors typically hold a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.
These programs equip students with in-depth knowledge about aircraft systems, materials, and manufacturing processes.
In addition to formal education, supervisors in this field often have several years of experience working in aircraft manufacturing.
This allows them to gain practical skills and understanding of the production environment and procedures.
Though not always required, gaining a master’s degree in engineering management or a similar field can provide supervisors with a more comprehensive understanding of project management, leadership, and strategic decision-making, which are valuable skills for this role.
Many employers prefer candidates with professional certifications such as Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMT) or Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE).
These certifications, offered by organizations like the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, validate a candidate’s expertise in the field of manufacturing.
Continuing education and staying updated with the latest advancements in technology and aviation industry trends is crucial for Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisors.
Finally, this role requires strong leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
These can be developed through on-the-job training, workshops, and seminars.
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor Salary Expectations
An Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor earns an average salary of $73,528 (USD) per year.
However, the salary can vary depending on the individual’s level of experience, specific skill set, the employing company, and the geographic location.
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor Job Description FAQs
What skills does an Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor need?
Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisors should possess strong leadership and communication skills to lead their team efficiently and convey instructions effectively.
They need to have a deep understanding of aircraft manufacturing processes, materials, quality control, and safety protocols.
They should also have good decision-making skills, problem-solving abilities, and a keen attention to detail.
Do Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisors need a degree?
While not always a requirement, many employers prefer candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related field.
However, significant relevant experience in aircraft manufacturing can sometimes substitute for formal education.
Additional certifications in aviation management or quality assurance may also be beneficial.
What should you look for in an Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor resume?
Look for a strong background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, and experience in leading manufacturing teams.
Check for knowledge in aviation regulations, safety requirements, and quality control procedures.
The resume should also demonstrate a track record of managing projects and meeting deadlines.
Proficiency in CAD software and other relevant tools is a plus.
What qualities make a good Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor?
A good Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor has excellent leadership abilities, is able to motivate and manage a team, and has a strong understanding of aircraft manufacturing processes.
They should be detail-oriented and have high standards for quality and safety.
They must also be able to work under pressure, make quick decisions, and solve problems efficiently.
How demanding is the Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor job?
The role of an Aircraft Manufacturing Supervisor can be quite demanding.
It involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of the manufacturing floor, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the team, and maintaining the highest standards of quality.
The job often requires long hours and dealing with high-stress situations.
However, it can also be highly rewarding, especially when a project is successfully completed.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the intricate world of an aircraft manufacturing supervisor.
Surprised?
It’s not just about managing production lines.
It’s about shaping the future of aerospace, one aircraft at a time.
Armed with our comprehensive aircraft manufacturing supervisor job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to embark on your journey.
But why limit your flight there?
Soar higher with our job description generator. It’s your launchpad for precision-engineered job listings or fine-tuning your resume to achieve new heights.
Remember:
Every aircraft you supervise is a part of the broader aerospace landscape.
Let’s conquer the skies. Together.
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