Ground Support Equipment Mechanic (Inspector)

Position Overview

The Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Mechanic (Inspector) performs advanced technical inspections, diagnostics, and evaluations of aviation and ground support equipment to ensure compliance with manufacturer specifications, FAA/DOD standards, and maintenance quality requirements. This role validates serviceability, verifies maintenance actions, and ensures equipment readiness to support flight operations, logistics missions, and maintenance activities.

Key Responsibilities

Inspection & Quality Assurance

• Conduct detailed inspections of powered and non-powered aviation ground support equipment, including but not limited to:
  • Aircraft tugs and tow tractors
  • Air conditioners and heaters
  • Power carts (A/M32A-60, etc.)
  • Hydraulic test stands
  • Fuel servicing equipment
  • Lifting devices and hoists
  • Maintenance stands and platforms
• Identify deficiencies in mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, fuel, cooling, and pneumatic systems.
• Perform acceptance, in-process, and final inspections of maintenance activities to ensure compliance with technical manuals (T.O.’s, OEM publications, military TMs).
• Validate repairs and confirm serviceability prior to equipment release.

Maintenance Verification & Troubleshooting

• Review completed maintenance work to ensure proper repair procedures, parts usage, safety practices, and documentation accuracy.
• Provide technical diagnosis of complex system failures and recommend corrective actions.
• Confirm functionality through operational testing, load testing, and system performance checks.
• Monitor recurring deficiencies and provide trend analysis to supervisors or Quality Control personnel.

Documentation & Compliance

• Ensure all inspection findings, maintenance actions, and discrepancies are documented in required systems (e.g., MAXIMO, NALCOMIS, GCSS-Army, or contract-specified platforms).
• Verify compliance with OSHA, EPA, DOD, and organizational safety and environmental standards.
• Support internal and external audits, inspections, and Quality Assurance programs.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, calibrations, and equipment status reports.

Safety & Environmental Stewardship

• Enforce proper handling of hazardous materials, waste disposal, and refrigerant recovery procedures.
• Ensure GSE complies with safety devices, guards, alarms, and operational protection systems.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce safety hazards and equipment downtime.

Technical Support & Training

• Provide technical guidance to GSE mechanics and junior personnel.
• Assist in developing inspection checklists, maintenance procedures, and shop SOPs.
• Conduct on-the-job training for proper troubleshooting, testing, and safety practices.

Required Qualifications

• Experience as a GSE Mechanic or Inspector supporting aviation or military operations.
• Proficiency with mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and fuel system diagnostics.
• Ability to read/interpret Technical Orders, OEM publications, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Familiarity with test equipment such as multimeters, load banks, gauges, and hydraulic testers.
• Ability to meet physical requirements and work in shop, flight line, and outdoor environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous DOD contractor or military aviation support experience (e.g., USAF AGE, Army GSE, Navy A/M equipment).
• Experience with maintenance and inspection documentation systems (MAXIMO, NALCOMIS, GCSS-Army).
• Certifications in hydraulics, HVAC, diesel systems, or electrical troubleshooting.
• FAA or OEM training related to GSE maintenance.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks such as climbing, kneeling, and prolonged standing.
• Work in indoor/outdoor environments, including extreme heat or cold.
• Use of PPE and adherence to flight line safety rules required.