What are the responsibilities and job description for the Technical Standards Consultant position at Southwest Airlines?
Department: Technical Operations
Our Company Promise
We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of Southwest Airlines. Above all, Employees will be provided the same concern, respect, and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.
Job Description:
As a Technical Standards Consultant in Technical Operations, you’ll lead process improvement and compliance initiatives that strengthen the safety, reliability, and efficiency of Southwest Airlines’ maintenance programs. Acting as a subject matter expert, you’ll collaborate across Planning, Engineering, Quality Control, and Maintenance Teams to identify and resolve technical compliance issues, drive operational excellence, and implement sustainable solutions. With a strong grasp of regulatory requirements and deep Technical Operations expertise, your work ensures our aircraft maintenance standards remain best-in-class and support safe, compliant, and cost-effective operations across the Southwest network.
Additional details
The culture of Southwest Airlines means we value the camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation that occurs when we come together and interact face-to-face at our vibrant Corporate Campus. Due to the nature of this role, you would be required to work from our Dallas, TX Headquarters facility during business hours.
U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.
We’re committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics.
Responsibilities
Responsible for identifying technical challenges that pose compliance risk or span multiple departments, leading multi-disciplinary efforts to define solutions, and setting clear standards for success. This includes not only facilitating discussions but also driving alignment, making informed recommendations, and ensuring adoption of standardized, comprehensive processes that strengthen compliance and efficiency
Conducts regulatory research, interprets guidance, and develops actionable strategies to help ensure Tech Ops maintains the highest levels of safety and compliance. The role does not stop at providing guidance but helps define the path forward and drives progress toward resolution
Lead multi-disciplinary workshops, create presentations, and clearly communicate recommendations to Leaders and Teams
Lead process improvement initiatives by facilitating meetings, creating presentations, communicating recommendations, and developing project plans and schedules to support implementation of process improvement initiatives; includes assessing operations, creating process maps, researching federal regulation and guidance, identifying opportunities for improvement, understanding appropriate methodologies, consulting with Subject Matter Experts, and proposing solutions for process improvement
Work with teams across Technical Operations, understand challenges, analyze problems, and establish specific standards required for an effective and compliant Operation
Research and understand federal regulations and guidance material
Review, understand, and provide feedback on FAA and DOT Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)
Manage multiple projects and tasks across shifting priorities to ensure team deliverables and Operational needs are attained
Evaluate technical processes, recognize deficiencies, and identify root cause as necessary
Bring alignment between organizations and drive towards a recommendation or solution
Serve as Subject Matter Expert to cross-departmental projects and work as a liaison with other departments and workgroups to ensure Tech Ops needs are met
Deliver analysis and solutions or recommendations that illustrate a clear understanding of the problem and the broader impact across Operational groups and the Company
Prepare memos, reports, and presentations using excellent verbal and written skills
Ability to meet any physical ability requirements listed in this description
May perform other job duties as directed by Employee Leaders
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
The position requires a balance of technical proficiency, leadership skills, project management, and strategic thinking to deliver process improvements, champion regulatory compliance, and influence outcomes across the organization
Ability to be an effective communicator across varying levels of an organization
Ability to research and understand federal regulation and guidance
Familiarity with aircraft systems and their maintainability
Skilled in effectively communicating information and ideas in a concise and compelling storyline using all forms of communication, tailoring tone, style and content to the intended audience
Ability to understand internal/external Stakeholder requirements, expectations, and needs and incorporate them into process improvement projects
Ability to present in front of all levels of management and represent the department at cross-functional meetings
Interpret and understand technical documents, such as the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC), Wiring Diagram Manual (WDM), Engineering drawings and diagrams, Airworthiness Directives (AD), and Service Bulletins (SB)
Understand problems and inefficiencies in technical processes
Ability to reconcile multiple variables when making decisions
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Skilled in negotiation and conflict management; leading discussions with stakeholders from multiple backgrounds that may have conflicting priorities
Strong analytical, problem-solving abilities
Strong change management skills
Excellent communication and presentation skills to large audiences and Senior Leadership
Skilled in identifying problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions
Ability to work within regulatory constraints with a strategic mindset
Skilled in driving continuous improvement projects from concept to completion Education:
Required: High School Diploma or GED
Experience
Demonstrated experience in leading cross-functional process improvement initiatives and influencing compliance outcomes within a Part 121 air carrier environment
Advanced level experience, seasoned and specialized knowledge in:
Part 121 operations and regulatory compliance requirements
Process improvement methodologies, including analyzing technical challenges, developing solutions, and driving implementation
Aircraft Maintenance, Quality Control, and Engineering processes that support compliance and operational efficiency
Regulatory research and interpretation of FAA and DOT rules, guidance, and Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)
Safety Management System (SMS) principles, including Safety Risk Management (SRM) and Risk Assessments (RA)
Project management, including developing project plans, facilitating workshops, and managing competing priorities
Technical process evaluation, identifying deficiencies, and performing root cause analysis
Licensing/Certification
N/A
Physical Abilities
Ability to perform work duties from limited space work station/desk/office area for extended periods of time
Ability to communicate and interact with others in the English language to meet the demands of the job
Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy to meet the demands of the job
Other Qualifications
Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
Must be at least 18 years of age
Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines
Must be able to travel as needed to accomplish project goals
Pay & Benefits:
Competitive market salary from $103,750 per year to $115,300 per year* depending on qualifications and experience, with opportunity for future pay increases based on performance and market movement. For eligible Leadership and individual contributor roles, additional bonus opportunities are available and awarded at the discretion of the Company.
Benefits you’ll love:
Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)
Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan with Company contributions up to 9.3% of your eligible earnings**
Potential for annual Profit-sharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan- when Southwest profits, you profit***
Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents (including pets)
Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the very first day of employment. You will have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan with coverage retroactively available to your first day of employment.
Explore more Benefits you’ll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits
***Profit-sharing contributions are subject to plan’s vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company
Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please print/save this job description because it won't be available after you apply.
Job Posting End Date
10/27/2025
Our Company Promise
We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of Southwest Airlines. Above all, Employees will be provided the same concern, respect, and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.
Job Description:
As a Technical Standards Consultant in Technical Operations, you’ll lead process improvement and compliance initiatives that strengthen the safety, reliability, and efficiency of Southwest Airlines’ maintenance programs. Acting as a subject matter expert, you’ll collaborate across Planning, Engineering, Quality Control, and Maintenance Teams to identify and resolve technical compliance issues, drive operational excellence, and implement sustainable solutions. With a strong grasp of regulatory requirements and deep Technical Operations expertise, your work ensures our aircraft maintenance standards remain best-in-class and support safe, compliant, and cost-effective operations across the Southwest network.
Additional details
The culture of Southwest Airlines means we value the camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation that occurs when we come together and interact face-to-face at our vibrant Corporate Campus. Due to the nature of this role, you would be required to work from our Dallas, TX Headquarters facility during business hours.
U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.
We’re committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics.
Responsibilities
Responsible for identifying technical challenges that pose compliance risk or span multiple departments, leading multi-disciplinary efforts to define solutions, and setting clear standards for success. This includes not only facilitating discussions but also driving alignment, making informed recommendations, and ensuring adoption of standardized, comprehensive processes that strengthen compliance and efficiency
Conducts regulatory research, interprets guidance, and develops actionable strategies to help ensure Tech Ops maintains the highest levels of safety and compliance. The role does not stop at providing guidance but helps define the path forward and drives progress toward resolution
Lead multi-disciplinary workshops, create presentations, and clearly communicate recommendations to Leaders and Teams
Lead process improvement initiatives by facilitating meetings, creating presentations, communicating recommendations, and developing project plans and schedules to support implementation of process improvement initiatives; includes assessing operations, creating process maps, researching federal regulation and guidance, identifying opportunities for improvement, understanding appropriate methodologies, consulting with Subject Matter Experts, and proposing solutions for process improvement
Work with teams across Technical Operations, understand challenges, analyze problems, and establish specific standards required for an effective and compliant Operation
Research and understand federal regulations and guidance material
Review, understand, and provide feedback on FAA and DOT Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)
Manage multiple projects and tasks across shifting priorities to ensure team deliverables and Operational needs are attained
Evaluate technical processes, recognize deficiencies, and identify root cause as necessary
Bring alignment between organizations and drive towards a recommendation or solution
Serve as Subject Matter Expert to cross-departmental projects and work as a liaison with other departments and workgroups to ensure Tech Ops needs are met
Deliver analysis and solutions or recommendations that illustrate a clear understanding of the problem and the broader impact across Operational groups and the Company
Prepare memos, reports, and presentations using excellent verbal and written skills
Ability to meet any physical ability requirements listed in this description
May perform other job duties as directed by Employee Leaders
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
The position requires a balance of technical proficiency, leadership skills, project management, and strategic thinking to deliver process improvements, champion regulatory compliance, and influence outcomes across the organization
Ability to be an effective communicator across varying levels of an organization
Ability to research and understand federal regulation and guidance
Familiarity with aircraft systems and their maintainability
Skilled in effectively communicating information and ideas in a concise and compelling storyline using all forms of communication, tailoring tone, style and content to the intended audience
Ability to understand internal/external Stakeholder requirements, expectations, and needs and incorporate them into process improvement projects
Ability to present in front of all levels of management and represent the department at cross-functional meetings
Interpret and understand technical documents, such as the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC), Wiring Diagram Manual (WDM), Engineering drawings and diagrams, Airworthiness Directives (AD), and Service Bulletins (SB)
Understand problems and inefficiencies in technical processes
Ability to reconcile multiple variables when making decisions
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Skilled in negotiation and conflict management; leading discussions with stakeholders from multiple backgrounds that may have conflicting priorities
Strong analytical, problem-solving abilities
Strong change management skills
Excellent communication and presentation skills to large audiences and Senior Leadership
Skilled in identifying problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions
Ability to work within regulatory constraints with a strategic mindset
Skilled in driving continuous improvement projects from concept to completion Education:
Required: High School Diploma or GED
Experience
Demonstrated experience in leading cross-functional process improvement initiatives and influencing compliance outcomes within a Part 121 air carrier environment
Advanced level experience, seasoned and specialized knowledge in:
Part 121 operations and regulatory compliance requirements
Process improvement methodologies, including analyzing technical challenges, developing solutions, and driving implementation
Aircraft Maintenance, Quality Control, and Engineering processes that support compliance and operational efficiency
Regulatory research and interpretation of FAA and DOT rules, guidance, and Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)
Safety Management System (SMS) principles, including Safety Risk Management (SRM) and Risk Assessments (RA)
Project management, including developing project plans, facilitating workshops, and managing competing priorities
Technical process evaluation, identifying deficiencies, and performing root cause analysis
Licensing/Certification
N/A
Physical Abilities
Ability to perform work duties from limited space work station/desk/office area for extended periods of time
Ability to communicate and interact with others in the English language to meet the demands of the job
Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy to meet the demands of the job
Other Qualifications
Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
Must be at least 18 years of age
Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines
Must be able to travel as needed to accomplish project goals
Pay & Benefits:
Competitive market salary from $103,750 per year to $115,300 per year* depending on qualifications and experience, with opportunity for future pay increases based on performance and market movement. For eligible Leadership and individual contributor roles, additional bonus opportunities are available and awarded at the discretion of the Company.
Benefits you’ll love:
Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)
Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan with Company contributions up to 9.3% of your eligible earnings**
Potential for annual Profit-sharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan- when Southwest profits, you profit***
Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents (including pets)
Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the very first day of employment. You will have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan with coverage retroactively available to your first day of employment.
Explore more Benefits you’ll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits
- Pay amount doesn’t guarantee employment for any particular period
***Profit-sharing contributions are subject to plan’s vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company
Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please print/save this job description because it won't be available after you apply.
Job Posting End Date
10/27/2025
Salary : $103,750 - $115,300
