Operations & Restoration Support Manager

Join the team behind a nationally recognized aerospace and science center!

Help preserve aviation history while powering daily operations at a nationally recognized aerospace and science center! The Air Zoo, a Smithsonian-affiliated organization and industry leader in immersive exhibits and STEAM education, is seeking a skilled and hands-on Operations & Restoration Support Manager to oversee facilities operations and help lead the future of our aircraft restoration program.

About the Role

This dynamic role blends facilities management, technical expertise, safety oversight, and aircraft restoration support. You will ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operation of our facilities and attractions while serving as the designated successor to the Restoration Manager—progressively assuming leadership responsibility to ensure long-term continuity of our nationally respected restoration program.

If you are an FAA-certified professional who thrives in hands-on environments, values craftsmanship, and enjoys leading teams in a mission-driven organization, this is a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact.

What You’ll Do

· Lead hands-on maintenance of facilities, attractions, restoration spaces, and equipment to ensure safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

· Oversee preventive maintenance, inspections, contractor coordination, and accurate CMMS documentation.

· Troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical, infrastructure, and exhibit issues to minimize downtime and enhance guest experience.

· Manage tools, equipment, inventory, and logistics supporting events, artifact movement, and aircraft positioning.

· Serve as operational partner and designated successor to the Restoration Manager, supporting structured knowledge transfer and long-term continuity.

· Support restoration planning, shop safety, tooling readiness, workflow documentation, and cross-departmental coordination.

· Act as Safety Officer, leading inspections, training, emergency preparedness, and continuous improvement initiatives.

· Perform advanced technical work, prioritizing backlog reduction and operational readiness.

· Supervise, coach, and develop restoration staff and volunteers to strengthen technical capability and safety culture.

· Support recruitment, onboarding, documentation, and long-range workforce planning to enhance resilience and program sustainability.

What You Bring

· Associate degree in aviation maintenance, facilities management, engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).

· FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification.

· Progressive experience in facilities operations and hands-on restoration or mechanical maintenance, preferably in aviation, museum, or industrial environments.

· Demonstrated experience repairing, restoring, fabricating, or maintaining aircraft or complex mechanical systems.

· Proven ability to lead and develop staff and volunteers in a hands-on, safety-focused environment.

· Working knowledge of aircraft systems, building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing), and shop safety practices.

· Proficiency with CMMS systems and Microsoft Office.

· Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, blueprints, and safety documentation.

· Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, guest-focused setting.

· Commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, collections stewardship, and exceptional guest experience.

Schedule/Work Hours

Hours will vary based on operational needs and may include days, evenings, and weekends. This position is on-site at the Air Zoo in Portage, Michigan, including responsibilities at the Flight Innovation Center.

Compensation

Staring annual salary range $55,000 - $59,000, depending on skills, experience, and internal equity. The Air Zoo also offers a comprehensive benefits package, professional development opportunities, and a creative, mission-driven work environment.

Why the Air Zoo?

Working at the Air Zoo means joining a passionate, mission-driven team that transforms science, innovation, and aviation history into unforgettable experiences. In this role, you won’t just maintain facilities—you’ll help preserve aircraft, mentor volunteers, strengthen safety culture, and ensure operational continuity for generations to come.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand, bend, kneel, climb ladders, and lift up to 50 lbs. Work may occur in restoration shops, mechanical spaces, indoor/outdoor environments, and varying weather conditions. Visual acuity and clear verbal communication are required.

To Apply

Email your resume, cover letter, and a list of three professional references to [email protected]

If you have questions or need assistance applying, please contact us at [email protected]

Pay: $55,000.00 - $59,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Safety equipment provided
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person