Head of Aircraft Ground Test Operations - A320 Job at Airbus (Mobile)

Job Description

The Head of Aircraft Ground Test Operations is responsible for overall leadership along with the technical oversight of all ground test activities encompassing two high-volume A320 production lines and the final completion area. As a senior site leader, you will provide executive leadership and technical governance for all A320 ground test operations. You are responsible for the strategic design, coordination, and execution of the aircraft testing operating system, ensuring all policies and procedures align with world-class aerospace standards.

Job Responsibility

Lead and manage Ground Test Operations (ESAO) across three core pillars: Operations, Ground Test Design Engineering, and the Tool Shop
Accountable for delivering completely equipped, powered, and certified single-aisle aircraft on time, within quality standards, and on cost
Achieve and maintain a 95%+ In-station build rate across all value streams
Define and drive the growth plan for ground test design autonomy to support the Mobile site ramp-up
Manage aircraft manufacturing techniques and industrial processes, including line balancing and activity sequencing
Responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of test tooling and assets valued at over $125M, including additional hangar spaces and Production Line 2
Lead local Ground Test Designers in providing test instructions, troubleshooting support, and maintaining Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
Function as a role model for OSHA regulations and FOD (Foreign Object Debris) prevention, ensuring airworthiness and POA (Production Organisation Approval) compliance
Analyze "Cost of Non-Quality" data to identify root causes and eliminate human-factor defects early in the assembly process
Directly manage a team of 5 Managers, 4 Engineers, and approximately 50 frontline employees
Actively manage the transition of knowledge from expatriate trainers to local employees through structured succession planning
Forecast manpower requirements and establish "multiple skills" requirements to ensure workforce flexibility
Train and mentor Operational Leaders using AOS (Airbus Operating System) tools and routines to meet annual Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Monitor and manage all departmental budgets, including consumables, hand tools, and Jigs/Tooling maintenance in accordance with AOP objectives
Partner with procurement to ensure the acquisition of necessary materials, test tools, and equipment
Proactively resolve conflicts and engage with Quality, Procurement, and support staff to enhance existing work processes

Requirements

Bachelors' degree in Aeronautical, Industrial or Manufacturing Engineering or an equivalent combination of education and experience
8 - 10 years of experience in Production Operations and/ or Aviation Management (Manufacturing Engineering, Assembly Processes, Production method, etc.)
5 or more years of experience in a leadership position
Knowledge of Production and Quality rules in aviation
Lean Manufacturing Methodologies
Proficiency in Quality Management Systems, aviation manufacturing logistics, and industry safety practices
Fluency in written and spoken English

Nice to have

Masters' degree in Aeronautical, Industrial or Manufacturing Engineering or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Experience with project management
Experience in a multicultural work environment
Experience with quality and logistics regulations in aviation manufacturing
Experience as a member and leader of an international team
Fluency in another language (French, German, and Spanish) is highly desirable

What we offer

Competitive base salary, incentive compensation which may include profit sharing schemes, retirement savings plan and the ability to participate in an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”)
Paid time off including personal time, holidays and a generous paid parental leave program
Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical (traditional and high-deductible health plans), prescription, dental, vision, life, disability, Employee Assistance Plan (“EAP”) and other supplemental benefit coverages
Upskilling and development opportunities through our global Leadership University, including unlimited access to 10,000+ e-learning courses focusing on ways to develop your employability, certifications, career path as well as the opportunity to participate in accelerated development programmes and both national and international mobility

Airbus - All Job Offers

Select Country

Head of Aircraft Ground Test Operations - A320

Job Description

Job Responsibility

Requirements

Nice to have

What we offer

Looking for more opportunities?

Head of Aircraft Ground Test Operations - A320

Senior Lead Commercial Banking Relationship Manager

Personal Banker

Registered Nurse Oncology

Cook 2

Allied Health Professional Ultrasound Technologist

Associate IBT Leader

Intern

Retail Advisor

Our AI answers in your language