Soft Goods Crew Lead (CLE)

Position SummaryThe Crew Lead for the Upholstery and Panel Shop is responsible for leading and coordinating all activities related to the fabrication, assembly, and installation of soft goods and interior panels within custom aircraft interiors. This position ensures that all work meets the highest standards of quality, craftsmanship, and compliance while maintaining alignment with production schedules and expectations.The Crew Lead oversees a team of skilled technicians across both upholstery and panel departments, managing day-to-day workflow, delegating tasks based on priority and skillset, and providing technical direction as needed. This role requires expertise in aviation upholstery techniques, panel construction, material handling, and a strong understanding of aircraft interior fitment requirements.As a key leader within the production team, the Crew Lead acts as the main point of contact for interdepartmental coordination, working closely with Engineering, Quality, and Project Management to support the timely and accurate completion of interior projects. This position is also responsible for promoting a safe, organized, and collaborative work environment while driving continuous improvement and team development across both departments.Essential Job FunctionsSupervise daily operations with the Upholstery Department, ensuring efficient workflow and high-quality outputEnsure all upholstery work aligns with Process Specifications, safety standards, and quality requirementsManage, coach and develop upholstery staff to foster skill growth, accountability, and a team-oriented cultureProvide clear direction and feedback through regular communication, Performance Evaluations and mentorshipPlan and coordinate department schedules to meet production timelinesPrioritize tasks and allocate resources effectively to maintain productivity and minimize downtimeAssure quality standards are in place throughout all projectsUtilize the methods set forth by the company’s Repair Station, Quality Control Manuals and Process SpecificationsMonitor and manage inventory of materials, supplies and tooling for all projects and tasksCoordinate with procurement to ensure timely ordering and availability of materialsFoster positive team environmentDemonstrate a continual willingness to learn and serve as a team memberWillingness to learn, and if needed lead, other Interior Department functionsProactively identify strategies to enhance production quality, speed, and cost effectivenessAddress challenges in real time by troubleshooting issues, adjusting plans, and deploying resources effectivelyMaintain accurate records of work orders, time tracking, and departmental metricsProvide regular status updates to Director of Interiors and contribute to strategic planningQualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent required; vocational training or technical certification in upholstery or related field preferredMinimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in aircraft preferredMinimum of 2 years of leadership or supervisory experience preferredProficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings, blueprints and work instructionsProven ability to lead and motivate a team, delegate tasks effectively, and manage performanceStrong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and writtenAble to provide coaching, training and constructive feedback to team membersExcellent time management skills with the ability to prioritize workloads and meet deadlinesMust be willing to work overtime as needed to meet production demandsDependable, self-motivated and committed to continuous improvement and team success