Incumbent serves as the Principal Maintenance Inspector (PMI) and is responsible for applying substantial knowledge of and experience with Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) for the development and implementation of standards, programs, and procedures for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) field personnel and the public governing all matters to general aviation maintenance safety issues.
The PMI receives administrative direction from management in terms of broadly defined missions or functions. The PMI, mostly independently plans, designs, and carries out programs, projects, studies, or other work. The PMI provides policy assistance to field level Aviation Safety Inspectors (ASIs) on difficult or complex policy interpretations. The work is normally accepted without change.
Completed work may be reviewed for adherence to FAA policy and for assurance that project requirements have been fulfilled. Some FG-14 assignments involve Service wide responsibility for application of expert knowledge of general aviation maintenance.
Other FG-14 inspectors establish technical procedures and performance yardsticks and review maintenance programs, or who have problems of comparable scope and complexity, or a uniquely complex group of general aviation organizations. Assignments at this level are of great scope and unusual complexity and the organizations monitored are major factors in the industry.
ASIs at the FG-14 level establish technical procedures and performance indexes and review complete maintenance programs for general aviation organizations who are leaders in the aviation industry, or who have problems of comparable scope and complexity, or a uniquely complex group of general aviation organizations. Assignments at this level are of great scope and unusual complexity.
FG-14 employees evaluate maintenance programs for organizations which utilize complex aircraft, systems, and equipment. Because of organizational complexity or the advanced technology incorporated in the aircraft, systems, and equipment, employees must exercise originality to resolve unique problems. They frequently rely on engineers and designers for specific technical guidance although much of their work is carried out under very broad policy guidelines.
Supervisors give FG-14 employees a wide leeway for independent action. Other inspectors seek their advice on problems relating to aircraft and their operation and maintenance. Because of the precedent-setting nature or substantial effect on the aviation industry or public safety, their decisions may be reviewed and approved at a higher policy-setting level. The PMI plans and directs the use of time and resources to accomplish organizational objectives.
He or she defines, organizes, and uses resources to accomplish work activities within established schedules, analyzes program requirements and accomplishments, and makes or directs adjustments as necessary to address organizational needs. Decisions typically have broad impact on the operation or maintenance of a particular type of advanced aircraft, major air carriers, or a geographic area containing a variety of novel and/or complex aviation operations.
Decisions also have a significant effect on the safety of the flying public. FG-14 ASIs have critically important and frequently controversial contacts with key officials of major manufacturers, major carriers, and general aviation organizations. Contacts are made to resolve issues which affect the initial certification and major modifications of aircraft, maintenance programs, and their effect on safety and compliance with regulations.
The PMI provides guidance to field level staff to solve difficult technical issues. Resolves all but unique problems, with the intervention of management or a more experienced technical specialist. Develop plans, techniques, and policies to address current and anticipated problems and issues. Works with management to solve problems.
The PMI keeps management informed of the status of all programs and projects and is held accountable for the technical accuracy, proper coordination, and timeliness of completed staff work. Provides staff assistance and serves as advisor to the manager on all matters pertaining to assigned tasking. Assists Safety Assurance ASIs, aviation safety technician, and others on queries that are technical or guidance related. Performs other duties as assigned.
Education is not qualifying and may not be substituted for experience.
chazden.j.galloway@faa.gov · 1 (206) 231-4040
This position is with Federal Aviation Administration, Department of Transportation.
The posted pay range is $140239 – $182316/yr.
This position is eligible for telework.
This position requires a Other security clearance.
Applications close on 2026-11-06.
There are 2 openings for this position.
This position is open under the 'Fed Internal Search' hiring path.
Source: USAJOBS.gov — U.S. Federal Government · Retrieved 2026-10-17 · Not affiliated with or endorsed by OPM or USAJOBS.gov
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