Avionics Manager (Garmin-Focused, General Aviation, Piston Aircraft)

Description

United Companies Air Center (UCAC) is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Avionics Manager to lead and grow our Avionics department in Evansville, IN. This role is primarily focused on Garmin avionics systems supporting general aviation piston aircraft, with additional responsibility for Avidyne, Aspen, and Dynon platforms.

This position offers a unique opportunity to directly impact departmental growth, expand technical capabilities, and extend UCAC’s reach within the general aviation market. The ideal candidate is a hands-on avionics leader who thrives in a fast-paced MRO environment and is motivated by building teams, improving processes, and shaping the future of an avionics operation.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Lead, manage, and scale the Avionics department, including workforce planning, hiring, scheduling, performance management, and professional development.
• Oversee avionics troubleshooting, maintenance, and STC-based installations primarily on general aviation piston aircraft.
• Direct and support avionics projects with a primary emphasis on Garmin avionics systems, while also supporting Avidyne, Aspen, and Dynon installations.
• Serve as the technical authority for Garmin integrated flight decks, navigators, autopilots, audio panels, ADS-B, and cockpit connectivity systems commonly installed in GA piston aircraft.
• Provide technical oversight and quality assurance for Avidyne, Aspen, and Dynon avionics upgrades and retrofits.
• Promote and enforce a safety-first culture, ensuring full compliance with FAA regulations, OEM requirements, STCs, Garmin installation manuals, and internal quality standards.
• Collaborate with Maintenance, Customer Service, and Leadership teams to deliver high-quality, on-time aircraft projects.
• Monitor labor utilization, project timelines, and departmental budgets to ensure operational efficiency and financial performance.
• Mentor, train, and develop avionics personnel; provide hands-on technical assistance for complex system integration and advanced troubleshooting when required.
• Review and approve logbook entries, inspection records, and maintenance documentation for accuracy and regulatory compliance.
• Partner with senior leadership on strategic growth initiatives, including Garmin capability expansion, tooling acquisition, technician training, and process improvement.
• Act as the primary escalation point for customer concerns related to avionics work scopes, ensuring timely resolution and high customer satisfaction.

General

• Ensure prompt and regular attendance.
• Perform other appropriate duties as may be assigned by Management.
• Travel as business needs may require.
• This position is for on-site and in-person work.

Compensation & Benefits Include

• Relocation Assistance & Sign-On Bonus (Eligible)
• Competitive Salary with Monthly Performance Bonus Program
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Short- & Long-Term Disability, Life & AD&D Insurance
• Health & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Tuition Reimbursement & Professional Development Programs

About UCAC

UCAC originated as Tri-State Aero, Inc. in Mt. Vernon, Indiana in 1963 and relocated to Evansville in 1965. Over the decades, UCAC has built a reputation for fair pricing, technical excellence, and exceptional customer service. Today, UCAC continues to invest in people, training, and technology to support the evolving needs of the general aviation community.

UCAC is a division of United Companies.

Equal Opportunity Employer

UCAC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

This does not necessarily list all responsibilities, duties, requirements, or efforts associated with the job. While this list is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job, the company reserves the right to review and modify as circumstances or business needs require.

Requirements

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of avionics experience, including hands-on troubleshooting and installations on general aviation aircraft.
• Demonstrated, in-depth experience with Garmin avionics systems.
• Minimum 2 years of leadership or management experience in an MRO, repair station, or aviation service environment.
• Experience managing avionics modification, upgrade, and STC-based installation projects.
• Working knowledge of Avidyne, Aspen, and Dynon avionics systems.
• Strong understanding of avionics systems including navigation, communication, surveillance, flight control, and cockpit connectivity.
• Ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams, installation manuals, and regulatory documentation.
• Authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Garmin factory training and/or Garmin dealer or authorized service center experience.
• FCC GROL and/or FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Certificate.
• Hands-on experience with Garmin G1000, G3X, GTN series, GFC autopilots, and related GA avionics systems.
• Prior experience contributing to avionics department growth or expansion.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills with a proven ability to develop high-performing teams.