Chief Mechanic Jobs
Chief Mechanic jobs are open across transportation, construction, marine, and industrial manufacturing, from lead mechanic to fleet superintendent level, with specializations in diesel systems, heavy equipment, and preventive maintenance programs. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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We are Aero Air – A People Centered Aircraft Service Company. A premier, mission driven organization who employs high performing, dedicated professionals. Where our team members are committed to apply their talents to a purpose greater than the task at hand. We want to make a difference in the lives of people in our communities and on a national and global level. Whatever your career passion, when you choose to work at Aero Air, you'll be joining a team that is supportive, collaborative and everyone is treated like family.
Aero Air is the parent company of Erickson Aero Tanker (EAT). EAT operates year-round firefighting operations in support of our government contracts.
We invite applicants for A&P Mechanic - MD87 Tanker Crew Chief job openings located in Madras, Oregon!
We offer a very competitive wage and excellent benefits package! Annual compensation ranges from $90k-$120k, DOE (includes standard hourly rate plus scheduled assigned overtime). This position is assigned a 3 week on/1 week off (paid) schedule during Mandatory Assignment Periods. Our benefits include relocation reimbursement, paid holidays, paid time off, 401(k) plan with an automatic 3% employer provided safe harbor contribution upon hire, healthcare coverage including medical, dental, vision, employer funded health reimbursement arrangement, employee paid life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, pet insurance, corporate discount program on things like travel, gym memberships and more!
Position Summary
The Aircraft and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic – MD87 Tanker Crew Chief performs routine aircraft troubleshooting, inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance while maintaining a constant focus on safety and quality for the Erickson Aero Tanker fleet of MD-87, US government, and foreign government contracted aircraft. The position ensures company operational goals and objectives are met, while guaranteeing all aircraft maintenance documentation is maintained within applicable federal regulations, company policies and manufacturer requirements.
Required Duties and Responsibilities - Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the required duties and responsibilities.
- A&P Mechanics/Crew Chiefs are primarily assigned to the Erickson Aero Tanker fleet of government-contracted aircraft – US Forest Service, Mandatory Assignment Period (USFS-MAP) where dates can fluctuate from year to year based on allocations and fire conditions.
- During non-Mandatory Assignment Periods Crew Chiefs are assigned to home base work in Madras, Oregon. Routine and non-routine tasks are performed to maintain fleet readiness.
- Perform the required maintenance, troubleshooting and or repairs needed for aircraft anywhere in the United States in which the aircraft is located. To include locations which could include remote areas where modern conveniences may not always be available.
- Coordinate and manage the adjustment, repair, or replacement of malfunctioning components or assemblies, including the assembly of components such as switches, electrical controls and junction boxes using hand tools or soldering irons.
- Coordinate all 'AOG' activities, the troubleshooting of instruments, components, and assemblies, using circuit testers, voltmeters, or other test equipment.
- Adhere to all FAA Regulations, the Aero Air Repair Station Manual, Operations Manual and all other Quality Manuals and or Regulations, ensuring that all documents are signed off completely, properly, and timely in accordance with standard operating procedures.
- Coordinates all activities with Maintenance Control and management team and other crew chiefs as necessary. Update manager as to aircraft status. Responsible for tasks, orders parts, assures accurate documentation, inspects completed work, completes operation tests and preliminary post-work inspections, and completes work order forms.
- Accountable for tracking and accurately reporting all time worked and expenses incurred on a weekly basis with no exception. Failure to comply with accurate tracking requirements may result in the technician's removal from the crew. Ability to occasionally pre-book travel for reimbursement.
- Our contract with the USFS requires 2 days off in any 14-day window with a duty day of no more than 16 hours on during a 24-hour period. Crew members may relocate to different Tanker bases daily. Other government contracts may vary.
- Must be willing and able to work outdoors for long periods of time, utilizing various types of equipment, stands, ladders, boom lifts, scissor lifts, tugs, forklifts, etc.
- Scheduled maintenance is accomplished during non-flying hours, sunset to sunrise.
- During flying hours Crew Chiefs can be required to help with fueling, retardant loading, cleaning windshields.
- Maintain reliable, regular, and predictable attendance.
- Successful completion and favorable results of pre-employment drug screen and criminal history background check.
- Adhere to all Aero Air/Erickson Aero Tanker policies and standards of conduct.
- In addition to the duties listed, A&P Mechanics will be required to perform all other duties as assigned.
Skills and Abilities:
- Ability to use text messaging for maintenance reporting.
- Required ability to follow verbal instruction.
- Must be willing and able to work outdoors for long periods of time, utilizing various types of equipment, stands, ladders, boom lifts, scissor lifts, tugs, forklifts, etc.
- Ability to interpret and apply technical data relating to position.
- Reading comprehension required understanding of written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Ability to operate applicable equipment; ability to work without supervision required.
- Ability to travel up to 65+% of the time.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 3 years' experience preferred.
- Experience with MD-80 series aircraft desired but not required.
- FAA A&P License in good standing required, or ability to qualify, test, and pass within a short period of time.
- Additional background in sheet metal and systems a plus.
- Ability to organize and plan work, adhering to deadlines; attention to detail.
- Mathematical skills required.
- Service-oriented and able to build productive professional relationships.
- Experience with Microsoft suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) is required.
- Corridor and maintenance/parts manual access software is desired.
- High School Diploma/GED and required certifications listed above.
- Must maintain a valid U.S./state issued driver's license with clean driving record.
- Valid U.S. Passport..
Physical Requirements
- Must be able to lift to 15 pounds at times.
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 80 pounds with assistance.
- Requires the ability to read, hear, talk, stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, and climb all day.
- Accurate hand/eye coordination.
- Finger dexterity is required as well as hand strength, with the ability to grasp, lift, push and pull.
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
- Occasionally required to climb on a ladder.
- Ability to wear and utilize personal protective equipment.
Under the Department of Transportation-Federal Aviation Administration (DOT-FAA), the above listed position is categorized as a safety sensitive role. DOT-FAA regulations require Aero Air to inform applicants of the five (5) drug categories tested for during the post-offer, pre-employment drug test and while employed if selected for a random drug test; they include marijuana, amphetamines, cocaine, opioids, and phencyclidine.
Aero Air is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination against any person for any reason. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, familial status, parental status, protected veteran status, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.
As an equal opportunity employer, Aero Air is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If interested in applying with Aero Air and need special assistance or accommodation, please contact us at HR@aeroair.com
We are Aero Air – A People Centered Aircraft Service Company. A premier, mission driven organization who employs high performing, dedicated professionals. Where our team members are committed to apply their talents to a purpose greater than the task at hand. We want to make a difference in the lives of people in our communities and on a national and global level. Whatever your career passion, when you choose to work at Aero Air, you'll be joining a team that is supportive, collaborative and everyone is treated like family.
Aero Air is the parent company of Erickson Aero Tanker (EAT). EAT operates year-round firefighting operations in support of our government contracts.
We invite applicants for A&P Mechanic - MD87 Tanker Crew Chief job openings located in Madras, Oregon!
We offer a very competitive wage and excellent benefits package! Annual compensation ranges from $90k-$120k, DOE (includes standard hourly rate plus scheduled assigned overtime). This position is assigned a 3 week on/1 week off (paid) schedule during Mandatory Assignment Periods. Our benefits include relocation reimbursement, paid holidays, paid time off, 401(k) plan with an automatic 3% employer provided safe harbor contribution upon hire, healthcare coverage including medical, dental, vision, employer funded health reimbursement arrangement, employee paid life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, pet insurance, corporate discount program on things like travel, gym memberships and more!
Position Summary
The Aircraft and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic – MD87 Tanker Crew Chief performs routine aircraft troubleshooting, inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance while maintaining a constant focus on safety and quality for the Erickson Aero Tanker fleet of MD-87, US government, and foreign government contracted aircraft. The position ensures company operational goals and objectives are met, while guaranteeing all aircraft maintenance documentation is maintained within applicable federal regulations, company policies and manufacturer requirements.
Required Duties and Responsibilities - Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the required duties and responsibilities.
- A&P Mechanics/Crew Chiefs are primarily assigned to the Erickson Aero Tanker fleet of government-contracted aircraft – US Forest Service, Mandatory Assignment Period (USFS-MAP) where dates can fluctuate from year to year based on allocations and fire conditions.
- During non-Mandatory Assignment Periods Crew Chiefs are assigned to home base work in Madras, Oregon. Routine and non-routine tasks are performed to maintain fleet readiness.
- Perform the required maintenance, troubleshooting and or repairs needed for aircraft anywhere in the United States in which the aircraft is located. To include locations which could include remote areas where modern conveniences may not always be available.
- Coordinate and manage the adjustment, repair, or replacement of malfunctioning components or assemblies, including the assembly of components such as switches, electrical controls and junction boxes using hand tools or soldering irons.
- Coordinate all 'AOG' activities, the troubleshooting of instruments, components, and assemblies, using circuit testers, voltmeters, or other test equipment.
- Adhere to all FAA Regulations, the Aero Air Repair Station Manual, Operations Manual and all other Quality Manuals and or Regulations, ensuring that all documents are signed off completely, properly, and timely in accordance with standard operating procedures.
- Coordinates all activities with Maintenance Control and management team and other crew chiefs as necessary. Update manager as to aircraft status. Responsible for tasks, orders parts, assures accurate documentation, inspects completed work, completes operation tests and preliminary post-work inspections, and completes work order forms.
- Accountable for tracking and accurately reporting all time worked and expenses incurred on a weekly basis with no exception. Failure to comply with accurate tracking requirements may result in the technician's removal from the crew. Ability to occasionally pre-book travel for reimbursement.
- Our contract with the USFS requires 2 days off in any 14-day window with a duty day of no more than 16 hours on during a 24-hour period. Crew members may relocate to different Tanker bases daily. Other government contracts may vary.
- Must be willing and able to work outdoors for long periods of time, utilizing various types of equipment, stands, ladders, boom lifts, scissor lifts, tugs, forklifts, etc.
- Scheduled maintenance is accomplished during non-flying hours, sunset to sunrise.
- During flying hours Crew Chiefs can be required to help with fueling, retardant loading, cleaning windshields.
- Maintain reliable, regular, and predictable attendance.
- Successful completion and favorable results of pre-employment drug screen and criminal history background check.
- Adhere to all Aero Air/Erickson Aero Tanker policies and standards of conduct.
- In addition to the duties listed, A&P Mechanics will be required to perform all other duties as assigned.
Skills and Abilities:
- Ability to use text messaging for maintenance reporting.
- Required ability to follow verbal instruction.
- Must be willing and able to work outdoors for long periods of time, utilizing various types of equipment, stands, ladders, boom lifts, scissor lifts, tugs, forklifts, etc.
- Ability to interpret and apply technical data relating to position.
- Reading comprehension required understanding of written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Ability to operate applicable equipment; ability to work without supervision required.
- Ability to travel up to 65+% of the time.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 3 years' experience preferred.
- Experience with MD-80 series aircraft desired but not required.
- FAA A&P License in good standing required, or ability to qualify, test, and pass within a short period of time.
- Additional background in sheet metal and systems a plus.
- Ability to organize and plan work, adhering to deadlines; attention to detail.
- Mathematical skills required.
- Service-oriented and able to build productive professional relationships.
- Experience with Microsoft suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) is required.
- Corridor and maintenance/parts manual access software is desired.
- High School Diploma/GED and required certifications listed above.
- Must maintain a valid U.S./state issued driver's license with clean driving record.
- Valid U.S. Passport..
Physical Requirements
- Must be able to lift to 15 pounds at times.
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 80 pounds with assistance.
- Requires the ability to read, hear, talk, stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, and climb all day.
- Accurate hand/eye coordination.
- Finger dexterity is required as well as hand strength, with the ability to grasp, lift, push and pull.
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
- Occasionally required to climb on a ladder.
- Ability to wear and utilize personal protective equipment.
Under the Department of Transportation-Federal Aviation Administration (DOT-FAA), the above listed position is categorized as a safety sensitive role. DOT-FAA regulations require Aero Air to inform applicants of the five (5) drug categories tested for during the post-offer, pre-employment drug test and while employed if selected for a random drug test; they include marijuana, amphetamines, cocaine, opioids, and phencyclidine.
Aero Air is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination against any person for any reason. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, familial status, parental status, protected veteran status, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.
As an equal opportunity employer, Aero Air is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If interested in applying with Aero Air and need special assistance or accommodation, please contact us at HR@aeroair.com
Chief Mechanic Jobs by Experience Level
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Find Chief Mechanic JobsChief Mechanic Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Energy
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in chief mechanic jobs.
- 5 or more years of hands-on mechanical experience with progressive supervisory responsibility
- ASE Master Technician certification or equivalent OEM credentials
- Demonstrated experience managing a team of mechanics or technicians
- Proficiency diagnosing and repairing diesel engines, hydraulic systems, or heavy equipment
- Ability to read technical manuals, schematics, and work orders accurately
- Valid commercial driver's license or ability to obtain one preferred by most employers
Tips for Your Chief Mechanic Job Search
List every certification on your resume
ASE certifications, CDL endorsements, and OEM-specific credentials belong in a dedicated section near the top of your resume. Hiring managers scanning for chief mechanics filter fast, and missing a certification code can knock you out before a human reads your experience.
Quantify the fleet size you managed
Employers want to know the scale you've operated at. Replace vague phrases like 'managed maintenance operations' with the actual number of vehicles or equipment units, your team headcount, and whether you reduced downtime or cut parts costs.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists chief mechanic openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target postings by equipment type
A chief mechanic role at a transit authority is entirely different from one at an offshore drilling company. Filter your job search by equipment category, diesel, hydraulic, marine, or aerospace, so your application lands in front of the team that actually needs your specialty.
Prepare a skills demonstration for interviews
Many chief mechanic interviews include a shop walkthrough or a scenario question about diagnosing a failure under time pressure. Practice talking through your diagnostic process out loud, naming the tools you'd pull and the order you'd work through the problem.
Negotiate total compensation, not just base pay
Tool allowances, uniforms, on-call premiums, and continuing-education reimbursements are negotiable in chief mechanic offers. Know which of these you rely on before you get to the offer stage so you can ask specifically rather than accepting defaults.
Chief Mechanic Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most chief mechanics?
Aero Air, Ergon, and Lockheed Martin are hiring the most chief mechanics right now, with openings concentrated in Oregon, Massachusetts, and Idaho, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Fleet operators, transit agencies, and large construction contractors tend to post the most volume at any given time.
How many chief mechanic jobs are remote?
About 50% of chief mechanic openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the hands-on nature of the role. The sub-areas most likely to offer any remote component are technical training coordination, parts procurement oversight, and maintenance scheduling, where the work can be done from an office or home.
How do you become a chief mechanic?
Start by completing a formal apprenticeship or vocational training program in automotive, diesel, or industrial mechanics. Build several years of hands-on repair experience across multiple systems, then pursue ASE certifications relevant to your equipment type. Take on lead or foreman roles when available to develop supervisory skills, and document your team management and fleet oversight experience before applying to chief mechanic positions.
Can you get hired as a chief mechanic with limited experience?
Getting hired at the chief level with limited experience is difficult, but moving into the role through internal promotion is a realistic path. Work as a journeyman or lead mechanic, volunteer to train newer technicians, and step in when supervisors are absent. Employers in smaller fleets or rural operations are more likely to elevate a strong candidate who hasn't held the exact title before.
What does the chief mechanic interview process look like?
Most chief mechanic interviews run two to three stages. The first is a phone or video screen covering your experience and certifications. The second is an in-person interview with the shop manager or operations director, often including a facility tour and scenario-based questions about managing breakdowns, handling personnel issues, or prioritizing a backlogged work order queue. Some employers add a practical skills assessment or reference check before extending an offer.
Where can I find and apply to chief mechanic jobs?
You can find and apply to chief mechanic jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers across the United States. Search for roles that match your equipment specialization and experience level, then apply directly to each listing that fits. Applying early gives you the best chance when postings are active.
See All 7 Chief Mechanic Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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