Technical Advisor - MRO

For over 65 years, Columbia Helicopters have been a trusted provider of heavy-lift helicopter services. We create new aircraft, fly heavy-lift helicopters around the world, and provide maintenance support to ensure you are mission-ready for critical operations.  If you are passionate about aviation, join our Columbia Family!

The Technical Advisor – MRO is responsible for strengthening technical capability, training, and execution within the MRO. This role establishes and leads a formal training program for new hires, provides hands-on technical support to diagnose and resolve engine issues, and partners with shop leadership to improve throughput, quality, and first-pass yield. The position serves as a subject matter expert (SME) bridging training, production, and test cell performance.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

• Training Program Development & Execution (60%)
• • Design, implement, and maintain a structured training program for all new MRO hires
  • Develop standardized training materials, work instructions, and certification pathways aligned with CHI and FAA requirements
  • Conduct hands-on training for new hires to ensure technical competency and safety compliance
  • Track training progress and maintain accurate records of qualifications and certifications

Technical Troubleshooting & Test Cell Support (10%)

• • Lead root cause analysis for engines that fail test cell requirements
  • Partner with technicians, engineering, and quality teams to diagnose issues and implement corrective actions
  • Provide real-time technical guidance during engine build, teardown, and testing processes
  • Ensure lessons learned are documented and incorporated into training and standard work

Production Support & Throughput Improvement (10%)

• • Support engine assembly activities as needed to maintain workflow and meet production targets
  • Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in engine build and test processes
  • Recommend and implement process improvements to increase throughput and reduce rework
  • Partner with Planning and Supply Chain to ensure material readiness and workflow continuity

Mentorship & Leadership Development (10%)

• • Mentor and coach MRO Supervisors on technical decision-making, workforce development, and shop execution
  • Support development of leads and technicians to build bench strength and technical depth
  • Reinforce CHI core values, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and accountability

Compliance & Documentation (10%)

• • Ensure all work performed meets CHI standards, FAA regulations, and customer requirements
  • Support accurate documentation of work orders, test results, and repair records within ERP systems (e.g., Ramco)
  • Assist in audits and ensure adherence to approved process plans and procedures

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU:

• 20+ years of experience in turbine engine maintenance, overhaul, and test cell operations, specifically with CT58, T55 (714), and T55 (5512) engines
• Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis capability, particularly related to engine performance and test cell failures
• Proven experience training and developing technicians in a production/MRO environment
• Deep understanding of FAA regulations, maintenance documentation, and compliance requirements
• Experience working within ERP systems (e.g., Ramco) for work order tracking and documentation
• Ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Planning, and Supply Chain

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Technical expertise and problem-solving
• Instruction and coaching ability
• Operational execution and urgency
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Strong communication and leadership influence

WHAT YOU WILL LOVE ABOUT WORKING HERE:

At Columbia, we believe great people do their best work when they feel supported, challenged, and valued. We’re more than a workplace, we’re a team built on trust,