The Opportunity
UCAC is seeking an experienced Avionics Manager to lead and scale its avionics operation, with a primary focus on Garmin avionics systems supporting general aviation piston aircraft. This is a high-impact leadership role offering the opportunity to shape departmental growth, expand technical capabilities, and strengthen UCAC’s footprint within the GA avionics market.
This role will appeal to a technically strong avionics leader who enjoys building teams, modernizing processes, and influencing long-term strategy, not just managing day-to-day operations.
Why This Role Is Compelling
- Growth & Influence: Direct ownership of avionics department growth, tooling decisions, training strategy, and capability expansion
- Garmin-Centric Operation: Strong emphasis on Garmin systems, with exposure to Avidyne, Aspen, and Dynon
- GA Piston Focus: Clear mission supporting general aviation piston aircraft — no ambiguity about aircraft mix
- Leadership Visibility: Regular interaction with senior leadership and meaningful input into business decisions
- Stability + Investment: Established aviation company actively investing in people, training, and technology
Scope of Responsibility
- Lead, manage, and develop the Avionics department, including staffing, scheduling, performance management, and training
- Oversee Garmin-focused avionics troubleshooting, maintenance, and STC-based installations on GA piston aircraft
- Serve as the technical authority for Garmin integrated avionics, including navigators, autopilots, ADS-B, audio panels, and connectivity systems
- Provide oversight and quality assurance for Avidyne, Aspen, and Dynon avionics installations
- Ensure full compliance with FAA regulations, OEM requirements, STCs, and internal quality standards
- Drive a safety-first, accountability-focused culture
- Partner with senior leadership on strategic initiatives such as Garmin authorization expansion, tooling investment, technician development, and process improvement
- Act as escalation point for complex technical issues and customer concerns
Ideal Candidate Profile
Required:
- 5+ years of avionics experience with hands-on installation and troubleshooting
- Significant experience with Garmin avionics systems
- 2+ years in a leadership or management role within an MRO, repair station, or aviation service environment
- Experience managing avionics upgrade and modification projects
- Working knowledge of Avidyne, Aspen, and Dynon
- Strong understanding of GA avionics systems and regulatory requirements
Preferred:
- Garmin factory training or Garmin dealer / authorized service center experience
- FCC GROL and/or FAA A&P
- Experience with Garmin G1000, G3X, GTN series, and GFC autopilots
- Proven ability to grow teams, improve efficiency, and elevate technical standards
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary: $85-100K annual salary (Compensation may exceed this range based on experience, certifications, and demonstrated expertise.)
- Monthly performance bonus program
- Relocation assistance and sign-on bonus (eligible)
- Full medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
About UCAC
Founded in 1963 as Tri-State Aero and now operating as UCAC, the company has built a long-standing reputation for technical excellence and customer service within general aviation. UCAC continues to invest in its people and capabilities to meet the evolving needs of GA aircraft owners and operators.
UCAC is a division of United Companies.
Recruiter Note
This role is best suited for an avionics leader who wants ownership, influence, and the opportunity to build something — not just maintain the status quo.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $85,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person