ODA Unit Member

Section 05: Delegation & Roles

Definition

An individual within an ODA who is authorized by the ODA holder to perform specific delegated certification functions. Unit members are employees or contractors of the ODA organization who have been vetted, qualified, and appointed by the ODA Administrator. Their authority to make findings, issue approvals, or perform inspections is derived from the organization's ODA authorization, not from individual FAA appointment. The ODA Procedures Manual defines the qualifications, training, and oversight requirements for unit members.

Where This Shows Up

Unlike DERs who are individually appointed by the FAA, ODA unit members are managed by the organization. This means the ODA holder is responsible for ensuring unit member competency, managing conflicts of interest, and maintaining independence of certification functions from business pressures. The FAA oversees the organization's management system rather than directly managing each individual.

Primary Sources

14 CFR 183.61 — ODA Unit MembersFAA

Requirements for qualification and management of ODA unit members.

FAA Order 8100.15 — Organization Designation Authorization ProceduresFAA

Guidance on the selection, qualification, appointment, and oversight of ODA unit members.

Related Terms

Organization Designation Authorization (ODA)Designated Engineering Representative (DER)Delegation Limits and Independence

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