Manager - Technical Operations, Base Maintenance Planning

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At United, we have some of the best aircraft in the world. Our Technical Operations team comprises aircraft maintenance technicians, engineers, planners, ground equipment and facilities professionals, and supply chain teams that ensure they’re well-equipped and ready to transport our customers to their desired destinations. If you’re prepared to work on our planes, join our Tech Ops experts and help keep our fleet in tip-top shape.

Key Responsibilities:

As the Manager – Base Maintenance Planning, you’ll be responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of aircraft heavy maintenance visits. You will focus on building and managing work package assignments, while coordinating with key stakeholders—including Engineering, Tooling, and Materials—to ensure every visit is fully prepared and executed efficiently. In addition to leading a team of Planners and supporting daily operations, you’ll own strategic initiatives focused on long-range planning, schedule optimization, and the implementation of new processes and tools. As the department evolves toward more predictive and automated planning, this leader will leverage data, empower their team, and drive innovation through structured project and change management practices. You’ll play a critical role in shaping how our teams plan, forecast, and deliver base maintenance—making a direct impact on operational reliability, safety, and efficiency.

Primary duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Base Maintenance Planners
• Provide guidance and support on complex planning challenges, collaborating with internal partners and escalating when necessary
• Foster team growth by identifying strengths, supporting professional development, and creating opportunities for success
• Champion strategic initiatives to improve efficiency and modernize planning processes
•  Lead long-range planning initiatives to proactively identify and mitigate risks by coordinating with Line Planning, Strategic Planning, OEMs, Engineering, Materials, MROs, and AVM teams
• Identify and resolve process inefficiencies through the implementation of new tools, training, or streamlined procedures
• Drive innovation through team feedback, emerging technologies, and continuous improvement strategies 
• Represent the team in cross-functional meetings, providing updates and reporting on daily activity

Location & Schedule: This role is based at the CSC – Willis Tower in Chicago, IL, and follows a hybrid work schedule with three days per week in-office (subject to change)

What’s needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):

• Bachelor’s degree or 4+ years of relevant experience in Engineering, Aviation, Business, or Aircraft Maintenance
•  4+ years of experience in planning, program management, forecasting, maintenance strategy, continuous improvement, or relevant experience 
• 2+ years of proven leadership experience (team and/or project-based)
• Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills 
• A team-first mindset with an empathetic and supportive leadership style
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously
• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and the ability to learn new planning tools quickly
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with confidence presenting to all levels of leadership
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship
• Reliable, punctual attendance is a critical requirement
• Successful completion of an interview is required

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):

• Master’s degree or equivalent experience specifically in Aviation
• FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) License
• Hands-on experience in Base Maintenance, Base Planning, or Strategic Planning
• Previous work in airline planning, data-driven analysis, or forecasting
• Familiarity with continuous improvement tools and methodologies
• Knowledge of aircraft maintenance programs and planning systems
• Experience driving process improvements and incorporating stakeholder feedback