Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Engine Inspector

🎯 Role Definition

As a cornerstone of our Quality and Maintenance division, the Engine Inspector is entrusted with the critical task of examining, testing, and certifying the condition of high-performance engines. You will be the final authority on engine serviceability, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and a deep understanding of mechanical systems to identify potential issues before they become critical failures. This position requires an individual with an unwavering commitment to safety, precision, and technical excellence. You will work closely with maintenance teams, engineers, and management to uphold the highest standards of quality and ensure our engines operate flawlessly and in full compliance with industry and company regulations.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

FAA Certified Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic
Experienced Automotive or Diesel Technician
Quality Control Technician

Advancement To:

Lead Inspector or Inspection Team Lead
Maintenance Supervisor or Manager
Quality Assurance Manager

Lateral Moves:

Field Service Engineer
Technical Trainer or Instructor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform comprehensive visual, dimensional, and borescope inspections on a variety of engines and their associated components to detect defects, damage, or wear.
Interpret complex technical data, including engineering drawings, blueprints, maintenance manuals, and service bulletins, to ensure proper inspection criteria are met.
Utilize a wide range of precision measurement instruments, such as micrometers, calipers, and depth gauges, to verify component specifications and tolerances.
Conduct and interpret non-destructive testing (NDT) procedures, including fluorescent penetrant, magnetic particle, eddy current, and ultrasonic inspections.
Accurately document all inspection findings, discrepancies, and corrective actions taken in detailed maintenance records, work orders, and digital logbooks.
Certify the airworthiness or serviceability of engines and components post-inspection and maintenance, ensuring full compliance with FAA, EASA, and other regulatory body requirements.
Diagnose complex engine performance issues, malfunctions, and operational faults using advanced diagnostic software and test equipment.
Prepare detailed inspection reports for internal and external stakeholders, clearly communicating findings, analysis, and recommendations for repair or replacement.
Manage and maintain the calibration, serviceability, and inventory of all inspection tooling and equipment.
Review and validate work performed by maintenance technicians to ensure it meets all quality standards and technical specifications.
Act as a primary technical resource, providing expert guidance and support to maintenance personnel on inspection techniques and interpretation of standards.
Investigate engine-related incidents or failures to perform root cause analysis and contribute to preventative action strategies.
Evaluate Airworthiness Directives (ADs) and Service Bulletins (SBs) for applicability to the fleet and ensure compliance is properly documented.
Perform pre- and post-maintenance operational checks and functional tests to validate engine performance and system integrity.
Assess the condition of returned parts, warranty claims, and core units to determine serviceability, repair potential, and cause of failure.
Travel to off-site locations as required to perform field-level inspections, provide technical assistance, and support Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situations.
Develop and refine standardized inspection procedures and checklists to enhance the quality, efficiency, and consistency of the inspection process.
Uphold and promote a culture of safety by maintaining a clean work environment and adhering to all OSHA, company, and industry safety protocols.
Interface directly with engineering, supply chain, and quality assurance departments to resolve complex technical challenges and material issues.
Conduct audits of maintenance processes and documentation to ensure ongoing compliance and identify areas for continuous improvement.

Secondary Functions

Provide on-the-job training and mentorship to junior inspectors and apprentice technicians.
Participate in safety committee meetings and contribute to the development of safety-related policies.
Support the engineering team with data collection for reliability analysis and fleet health monitoring programs.
Assist in evaluating new inspection technologies and tools for potential implementation.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Borescope Inspection: Advanced proficiency in performing and interpreting video borescope inspections of internal engine components.
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): Certified or highly experienced in Level II NDT methods (Fluorescent Penetrant, Magnetic Particle, Eddy Current).
Technical Documentation: Expertise in reading and interpreting OEM maintenance manuals, engineering blueprints, and wiring diagrams.
Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of relevant regulations (e.g., FAA Part 145, Part 135, Part 91 for aviation; DOT regulations for automotive).
Engine Systems Expertise: In-depth knowledge of gas turbine, diesel, or internal combustion engine theory, operation, and construction.
Precision Measurement: Skilled in using a variety of precision measuring tools to verify tolerances and specifications.
Diagnostic Software: Competency with engine-specific diagnostic software and electronic troubleshooting tools.
Logbook & Record Keeping: Meticulous and accurate in maintaining maintenance records, logbook entries, and inspection reports.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail: An exceptional ability to notice minute details and discrepancies that could impact safety and performance.
Analytical & Problem-Solving: Strong critical thinking skills to diagnose complex issues and determine root causes.
Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to clearly articulate technical findings to diverse audiences.
Integrity & Professionalism: Unwavering ethical standards and the ability to make critical decisions under pressure.
Independent Work: Self-motivated with the ability to manage time and tasks effectively with minimal supervision.
Team Collaboration: A cooperative mindset with the ability to work effectively with mechanics, engineers, and management.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent.
For aviation roles: FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License is required.
For other industries: Relevant technical certification (e.g., ASE certification for automotive).

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in a related technical field.
NDT Level II or III Certifications.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Aviation Maintenance Technology
Automotive or Diesel Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 5-10 years of hands-on experience in engine maintenance, repair, overhaul, or inspection.

Preferred: Prior experience in a dedicated inspector role within a Part 145 Repair Station, an airline, an OEM service center, or a large-scale fleet maintenance facility. Documented experience with specific engine models relevant to the position (e.g., CFM56, GE90, V2500, Cummins X15, Caterpillar C15) is highly desirable.