CHIEF AIRCRAFT ENGINEER – Island Hoppers PTE Ltd

Employers usually require a Diploma or Degree in Aeronautical Engineering or Aircraft Maintenance Engineering from a recognized institution like the Fiji National University or equivalent overseas training. You must also hold a valid Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Licence (AMEL) issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji, with relevant type ratings for the aircraft operated. Significant hands-on experience, typically 8-10 years including supervisory roles, is generally expected for chief engineer positions.

You will oversee all maintenance activities, ensure airworthiness standards comply with CAAF regulations, and manage a team of licensed aircraft maintenance engineers. Daily tasks include approving maintenance schedules, signing off on major repairs, liaising with pilots about technical issues, and ensuring hangar safety protocols are followed. You will also represent the company during CAAF audits and maintain relationships with overseas parts suppliers.

Fijian aviation workplaces emphasize respectful hierarchical relationships, so expect to build strong personal connections with your team while maintaining professional authority. Employers value flexibility due to limited local parts availability and weather-dependent operations, requiring creative problem-solving rather than rigid adherence to overseas timelines. Punctuality and reliability are highly prized, as small teams mean your absence directly impacts flight operations.

With experience, you may advance to Director of Maintenance or Operations Manager roles within larger operators, or transition to regulatory positions with the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji. Some chief engineers move into consultancy work, assisting new airlines with certification and compliance setup. International mobility is possible, as Fijian-issued licences and experience with tropical operating conditions are valued by Pacific and Southeast Asian carriers.

Benefits typically include annual leave of 10-15 days initially, increasing with service, plus public holidays as prescribed by Fijian law. Medical coverage varies by employer, with larger companies often providing family-inclusive health insurance or access to private healthcare providers. Retirement benefits usually involve mandatory FNPF contributions from both employer and employee, with some companies offering additional superannuation schemes.

Submit a detailed CV highlighting your CAAF or equivalent licences, specific aircraft type ratings, and documented leadership experience to the company's official channels or aviation job boards like Pacific Jobs. Employers prioritize candidates with proven regulatory compliance experience, local market knowledge, and the ability to train and mentor junior engineers. Strong references from previous chief engineers or aviation authority inspectors significantly strengthen your application.