PMA
PMA (Parts Manufacturer Approval) is a certification given by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows companies to make replacement parts for aircraft. Think of it like getting a special license to create spare parts that are just as good as the original ones made by the aircraft manufacturer. When you see PMA on a resume, it usually means the person has experience working with these approved parts, either in making them, checking their quality, or managing the certification process. It's similar to having generic medications approved by the FDA - they work the same as brand-name drugs but are made by different companies.
Examples in Resumes
Managed quality control for PMA parts production and certification process
Led team of engineers in developing new PMA components for Boeing aircraft
Achieved cost reduction of 25% through implementation of PMA parts alternatives
Typical job title: "PMA Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find PMA Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Resources
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage a complex PMA certification project for multiple parts?
Expected Answer: The candidate should explain their experience in project management, understanding of FAA requirements, coordination with testing facilities, and ability to manage relationships with both the FAA and aircraft manufacturers.
Q: What strategies have you used to reduce costs while maintaining PMA compliance?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that show understanding of manufacturing processes, quality control, and cost management while emphasizing safety and regulatory compliance.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What documentation is required for PMA certification?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of FAA forms, test reports, design drawings, and quality system documentation required for PMA approval.
Q: Explain the difference between identicality and test and computation for PMA approval.
Expected Answer: Should explain that parts can be approved either by showing they're identical to original parts or by proving they meet requirements through testing and analysis.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is PMA and why is it important in aviation?
Expected Answer: Should explain that PMA is an FAA approval for manufacturing replacement parts and its importance for safety and regulatory compliance in aviation.
Q: What quality control measures are important in PMA parts manufacturing?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic quality control processes, inspection procedures, and documentation requirements in aircraft parts manufacturing.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of FAA regulations
- Quality inspection procedures
- Technical documentation
- Manufacturing process basics
Mid (2-5 years)
- PMA application process
- Quality management systems
- Production planning
- Regulatory compliance
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management
- FAA liaison experience
- Strategic planning
- Team leadership
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of FAA regulations
- Lack of quality control experience
- No understanding of aircraft parts documentation
- Poor attention to detail
- No experience with manufacturing processes
