Aviation Fuel Systems Manager

Group Overview

This role sits within the Air Mobility Group (AIRMOB), which is responsible for developing and delivering Metrea’s aerial refueling (AAR) capabilities, ensuring the readiness and operational effectiveness of the tanker fleet. AIRMOB oversees fleet management, maintenance, and airworthiness, working to sustain and enhance refueling operations. It manages the integration of new processes and technologies, ensuring that tanker aircraft remain mission-ready through effective logistics, maintenance oversight, and regulatory compliance. By coordinating across various teams, AIRMOB ensures the fleet meets both current and future operational needs, supporting a range of specialized air mobility missions.

Position Summary

In this role, you will own the fuel systems maintenance capability for Metrea’s KC-135R and C-135FR tanker fleet. On a tanker, the fuel system is the mission system, and you will lead the team that keeps fuel cells, plumbing, and aerial refueling delivery systems safe, leak-free, and fully mission capable.

You will be successful if you can run a disciplined, safety-first fuel cell operation, develop skilled technicians, and keep fuel system findings from becoming fleet availability problems.

What You'll Do

Lead all fuel system maintenance across the fleet, including fuel cell entry, inspection, leak evaluation, and repair

Own the confined space entry program for fuel cell maintenance, ensuring full compliance with OSHA requirements and industry best practices

Manage leak detection, classification, and repair standards consistent with applicable technical orders and manufacturer data

Plan and schedule fuel system inspections and repairs in coordination with Planning and the Maintenance Control Center to protect fleet availability

Oversee maintenance of aerial refueling delivery systems and associated fuel system components

Ensure fuel system airworthiness requirements, including fuel tank safety practices, are embedded in work instructions and training

Manage fuel shop equipment, sealants, consumables, and specialized tooling, including shelf-life and calibration control

Develop, qualify, and mentor fuel maintenance technicians, including confined space entrant, attendant, and supervisor qualifications

Document all work in AMOS and ensure records accurately reflect fuel system configuration and repair history

Support SMS hazard identification and risk assessment for fuel system maintenance operations

What You Bring

FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certificate.

7+ years of aircraft fuel systems maintenance experience, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role

Hands-on fuel cell entry and repair experience on KC-135, B707, or comparable large aircraft

Strong working knowledge of fuel system leak classification, sealant application, and repair techniques

Confined space entry training and demonstrated command of associated safety requirements

Ability to build and enforce disciplined safety practices in a high-risk maintenance environment

USAF fuel systems (2A6X4) or equivalent military fuel systems background

Experience with aerial refueling systems, including boom and probe-and-drogue configurations

Familiarity with T.O. 1-1-3 or equivalent fuel system inspection and repair standards

Experience with AMOS or comparable M&E information systems

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certificate required

Must be able to qualify for confined space entry, including respirator fit and medical clearance

Valid U.S. passport and driver’s license required; must be able to travel internationally

Benefits

Comprehensive medical plan options

HSA/FSA accounts

Dental and vision coverage

6% employer 401(k) match

Fully paid parental leave for all new parents

Generous PTO

Life and disability insurance

Long-term and Short-term disability coverage

AD&D Coverage

Pet Insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Subsided gym membership / plans through Wellhub

Work Authorization / Security Clearance

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States

Must be a U.S. citizen

Position may require passing a government-administered background check

Role requires adherence to export control regulations (ITAR/EAR)

Employment is contingent on meeting all background and adjudication requirements

AAP/EEO Statement

This Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time exempt position with typical working hours of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Hours and work shifts may change in accordance with department and business needs. Exempt employees must have the ability to be on-call and available, as business needs require.

Work Environment

Riverside, California. This job operates in hangar and flightline settings, including work in and around aircraft fuel cells and confined spaces. Exposure to fuel vapors, sealants, solvents, and noise is routine; use of respirators and other PPE is required. Position involves climbing, kneeling, and working in cramped positions.

Travel

Up to 30% domestic and international travel to operating and deployed locations.

Base Pay Range

The compensation range shown below is a good faith estimate and reflects the expected base pay for this position upon hire. This is just one component of Metrea's overall approach to total rewards and final compensation decisions, including the ultimate salary or hourly rate agreed upon, may vary depending on factors such as job location, job-specific knowledge, skills, experience, and the overall negotiated compensation package. Eligible full-time employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their health, wellbeing, and long-term success.

Pay Range

$130,000—$155,000 USD