Job Description
Department:
Technical Operations
Our Company Promise
We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of Southwest Airlines. Above all, Employees will be provided the same concern, respect, and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.
Job Description:
As the Manager, Regional Aircraft Appearance, you’ll lead the Teams responsible for ensuring Southwest aircraft are clean, safe, and ready for departure every day. You’ll oversee daily operations across your locations, coach and develop Supervisors, Leads, and Technicians, and ensure work is completed in compliance with company standards, regulatory requirements, and union agreements. From training and auditing to project management and process improvements, you’ll drive consistency, quality, and efficiency across Aircraft Appearance operations. By building strong relationships with Employees, Union partners, and cross‑functional Leaders—and by focusing on safety, performance, and accountability—you’ll play a key role in delivering a reliable operation and a great experience for our Customers.
Additional details
• The culture of Southwest Airlines means we value the camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation that occurs when we come together and interact face-to-face. Due to the nature of this role, you would be required to work from our Houston, TX facility during business hours.
• U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.
We’re committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, ****** orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics.
Model the Southwest Way
• Guide and lead team members using SWA talent management practices to coach, develop, and engage employees
• Adhere to Company values and competencies to foster a culture of inclusion, recognition, and support of a safe work environment
• Invest in leadership and self-growth through participating in continuous learning and development
Responsibilities
• Oversee and control the daily workload through the Supervisors and Lead Technicians, to ensure that all aircraft are prepared and ready for departure
• Oversee quality and determine compliance with standards set forth in Aircraft Appearance task cards, including documents with regulatory requirements
• Ensure Southwest Airline's directives and all AMFA contractual obligations are satisfied
• Ensure workplace safety and that all Regulatory requirements are met
• Responsible for maintaining training of all employees in operational functions and regulatory requirements
• Ensure Departmental SSID and security search requirements are met
• Ensure that all personnel are compliant with training requirements and communicate training needs to Sr Mgr Aircraft Appearance
• Ensure facilities and equipment are maintained and adequate
• Ensure job-related documents are completed and properly distributed
• Ensure payroll documents are accurate and properly distributed
• Ensure written turnovers are recorded and computer entries are made to the Sr Manager Aircraft Appearance daily
• Responsible for daily coordination with other Departmental Leaders to ensure that all work is addressed
• Monitor workload and personnel capabilities to ensure adequate staffing levels and productivity
• Responsible for maintaining the security of aircraft that are being worked on by Aircraft Appearance crews
• Ensure Leadership Team enforces attendance policies and takes appropriate action, including discipline when necessary
• Develop employees into future Leaders and is responsible for appointing an appropriate person to assume Regional Manager duties and responsibilities in his/her absence
• Responsible for achieving departmental metrics/KPI’s and developing strategies for improvement
• May perform other job duties as directed by Employee's Leaders
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
• Ability to communicate in a flexible and effective manner, both orally and written and have the ability to speak in a group situation with varying levels of audience
• Expert problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing requirements
• Exhibits the ability to be an attentive, active listener, capable of identifying unstated needs, verifying messages, and clarifying expectations to help others reach agreement
• Proficient computer skills and strong working knowledge of all Microsoft Office Suite programs
• Ability to represent Aircraft Appearance Leaders in cross-functional meetings
• Ability to develop and deliver effective leadership PowerPoint presentations
• Ability to display poise and confidence in formal communication, written, verbal, and presentation, to various levels of the organization including Customers, subject matter experts, Company and union Leaders, and Sr. Leaders
• Ability to read and comprehend maintenance program, operational, and component manuals
• Ability to provide constructive feedback and hold direct reports accountable to meet expectations
• Ability to lead, and establish a positive attitude with assigned personnel and other Company Employees
• Ability to be an independent thinker who has the courage to challenge the status quo, provoke thought, initiate debate, and be decisive, even in ambiguous environments
• Ability to manage programs and execute projects in a timely manner
• Ability to work well with cross-departmental relationships
• Working knowledge in maintaining operational budgets
• Able to work as part of a Team while refraining from reaching conclusions, acting without group consensus, or asserting own values until all perspectives are heard
Education
• Required: High School Diploma or GED
Experience
• Required: Demonstrated experience in directly or indirectly leading team(s)
• Required: Fully functioning, broad knowledge in:
• Leading Aircraft Appearance, Aviation Operations, Warehouse Operations or Manufacturing Operations
• Leading a unionized workforce and managing Collective Bargaining Agreements
• Working with regulating authorities such as TSA, OSHA, EPA, FDA, or FAA
• Preferred: Experience with data analytics tools, including Power BI, Tableau, and related technology platforms
• Preferred: Experience supporting Customer‑centric B2B and/or B2C environments, with exposure to FAA/FEMA or other regulated domain
• Preferred: Foundational experience/knowledge across project management, strategic planning, supply chain, and safety disciplines
Licensing/Certification
• Required: Must be able to obtain a SIDA (Secured Identification Display Area) badge and meet all local airport requirements
Physical Abilities
• Ability to perform work duties from limited space work station/desk/office area for extended periods of time
• Ability to communicate and interact with others in the English language to meet the demands of the job
• Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy to meet the demands of the job
Other Qualifications
• Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
• Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule depending on the needs of the operation
• Must be able to work extended hours as necessary to meet deadlines
• Must be able to travel with some overnight stays to meet the requirements of the position
• Must meet confidentiality expectations as to confidential, proprietary, and sensitive Company information
Pay & Benefits:
Competitive market salary from $114,200.00 per year to $126,900.00 per year* depending on qualifications and experience. For eligible Leadership and individual contributor roles, additional bonus opportunities are available and awarded at the discretion of the company.
Benefits you’ll love:
• Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)
• Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan with Company contributions up to 9.3% of your eligible earnings**
• Potential for annual ProfitSharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan- when Southwest profits, you profit***
• Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents (including pets)
• Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the very first day of employment. You will have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan with coverage retroactively available to your first day of employment.
• Explore more Benefits you’ll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits
• Pay amount does not guarantee employment for any particular period of time.
• *401(k) match contributions are subject to the plan’s vesting schedule and applicable IRS limits
• **ProfitSharing contributions are subject to plan’s vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.
Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please print/save this job description because it won't be available after you apply.
Job Posting End Date
04/02/2026
Technical Operations
Our Company Promise
We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of Southwest Airlines. Above all, Employees will be provided the same concern, respect, and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.
Job Description:
As the Manager, Regional Aircraft Appearance, you’ll lead the Teams responsible for ensuring Southwest aircraft are clean, safe, and ready for departure every day. You’ll oversee daily operations across your locations, coach and develop Supervisors, Leads, and Technicians, and ensure work is completed in compliance with company standards, regulatory requirements, and union agreements. From training and auditing to project management and process improvements, you’ll drive consistency, quality, and efficiency across Aircraft Appearance operations. By building strong relationships with Employees, Union partners, and cross‑functional Leaders—and by focusing on safety, performance, and accountability—you’ll play a key role in delivering a reliable operation and a great experience for our Customers.
Additional details
• The culture of Southwest Airlines means we value the camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation that occurs when we come together and interact face-to-face. Due to the nature of this role, you would be required to work from our Houston, TX facility during business hours.
• U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.
We’re committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, ****** orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics.
Model the Southwest Way
• Guide and lead team members using SWA talent management practices to coach, develop, and engage employees
• Adhere to Company values and competencies to foster a culture of inclusion, recognition, and support of a safe work environment
• Invest in leadership and self-growth through participating in continuous learning and development
Responsibilities
• Oversee and control the daily workload through the Supervisors and Lead Technicians, to ensure that all aircraft are prepared and ready for departure
• Oversee quality and determine compliance with standards set forth in Aircraft Appearance task cards, including documents with regulatory requirements
• Ensure Southwest Airline's directives and all AMFA contractual obligations are satisfied
• Ensure workplace safety and that all Regulatory requirements are met
• Responsible for maintaining training of all employees in operational functions and regulatory requirements
• Ensure Departmental SSID and security search requirements are met
• Ensure that all personnel are compliant with training requirements and communicate training needs to Sr Mgr Aircraft Appearance
• Ensure facilities and equipment are maintained and adequate
• Ensure job-related documents are completed and properly distributed
• Ensure payroll documents are accurate and properly distributed
• Ensure written turnovers are recorded and computer entries are made to the Sr Manager Aircraft Appearance daily
• Responsible for daily coordination with other Departmental Leaders to ensure that all work is addressed
• Monitor workload and personnel capabilities to ensure adequate staffing levels and productivity
• Responsible for maintaining the security of aircraft that are being worked on by Aircraft Appearance crews
• Ensure Leadership Team enforces attendance policies and takes appropriate action, including discipline when necessary
• Develop employees into future Leaders and is responsible for appointing an appropriate person to assume Regional Manager duties and responsibilities in his/her absence
• Responsible for achieving departmental metrics/KPI’s and developing strategies for improvement
• May perform other job duties as directed by Employee's Leaders
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
• Ability to communicate in a flexible and effective manner, both orally and written and have the ability to speak in a group situation with varying levels of audience
• Expert problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing requirements
• Exhibits the ability to be an attentive, active listener, capable of identifying unstated needs, verifying messages, and clarifying expectations to help others reach agreement
• Proficient computer skills and strong working knowledge of all Microsoft Office Suite programs
• Ability to represent Aircraft Appearance Leaders in cross-functional meetings
• Ability to develop and deliver effective leadership PowerPoint presentations
• Ability to display poise and confidence in formal communication, written, verbal, and presentation, to various levels of the organization including Customers, subject matter experts, Company and union Leaders, and Sr. Leaders
• Ability to read and comprehend maintenance program, operational, and component manuals
• Ability to provide constructive feedback and hold direct reports accountable to meet expectations
• Ability to lead, and establish a positive attitude with assigned personnel and other Company Employees
• Ability to be an independent thinker who has the courage to challenge the status quo, provoke thought, initiate debate, and be decisive, even in ambiguous environments
• Ability to manage programs and execute projects in a timely manner
• Ability to work well with cross-departmental relationships
• Working knowledge in maintaining operational budgets
• Able to work as part of a Team while refraining from reaching conclusions, acting without group consensus, or asserting own values until all perspectives are heard
Education
• Required: High School Diploma or GED
Experience
• Required: Demonstrated experience in directly or indirectly leading team(s)
• Required: Fully functioning, broad knowledge in:
• Leading Aircraft Appearance, Aviation Operations, Warehouse Operations or Manufacturing Operations
• Leading a unionized workforce and managing Collective Bargaining Agreements
• Working with regulating authorities such as TSA, OSHA, EPA, FDA, or FAA
• Preferred: Experience with data analytics tools, including Power BI, Tableau, and related technology platforms
• Preferred: Experience supporting Customer‑centric B2B and/or B2C environments, with exposure to FAA/FEMA or other regulated domain
• Preferred: Foundational experience/knowledge across project management, strategic planning, supply chain, and safety disciplines
Licensing/Certification
• Required: Must be able to obtain a SIDA (Secured Identification Display Area) badge and meet all local airport requirements
Physical Abilities
• Ability to perform work duties from limited space work station/desk/office area for extended periods of time
• Ability to communicate and interact with others in the English language to meet the demands of the job
• Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy to meet the demands of the job
Other Qualifications
• Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
• Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule depending on the needs of the operation
• Must be able to work extended hours as necessary to meet deadlines
• Must be able to travel with some overnight stays to meet the requirements of the position
• Must meet confidentiality expectations as to confidential, proprietary, and sensitive Company information
Pay & Benefits:
Competitive market salary from $114,200.00 per year to $126,900.00 per year* depending on qualifications and experience. For eligible Leadership and individual contributor roles, additional bonus opportunities are available and awarded at the discretion of the company.
Benefits you’ll love:
• Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)
• Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan with Company contributions up to 9.3% of your eligible earnings**
• Potential for annual ProfitSharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan- when Southwest profits, you profit***
• Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents (including pets)
• Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the very first day of employment. You will have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan with coverage retroactively available to your first day of employment.
• Explore more Benefits you’ll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits
• Pay amount does not guarantee employment for any particular period of time.
• *401(k) match contributions are subject to the plan’s vesting schedule and applicable IRS limits
• **ProfitSharing contributions are subject to plan’s vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.
Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please print/save this job description because it won't be available after you apply.
Job Posting End Date
04/02/2026
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Manager Regional Aircraft Appearance - HOU position is now open for candidates interested in the Transportation & Logistics sector. This role in Houston offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Transportation & Logistics is a plus.
