Pilot Training Program Director
Alaska Airlines seeks a highly accomplished and experienced Pilot Training Program Director to lead the strategic development and regulatory compliance of all flight operations training activities. Based in SeaTac, Washington, this full-time, exempt role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of pilot training within a leading airline.
Role Summary:
The Pilot Training Program Director serves as the sole subject matter expert, responsible for the long-term strategic planning and execution of all pilot training programs. This individual contributor will leverage significant initiative and decision-making authority to assess projects, develop innovative strategies, and ensure alignment with Alaska Airlines’ objectives. The role requires expert knowledge of FAA regulations and a proven ability to translate complex guidance into effective training programs across diverse fleet types and operational divisions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the strategic planning process for Flight Operations Training, encompassing project assessment and strategy development.
- Design and implement highly complex, innovative, long-term projects to significantly enhance pilot training programs.
- Develop a comprehensive long-term strategy for worldwide training operations, demonstrating a thorough understanding of FAA regulations and their application across various fleet types and divisions.
- Oversee the development of seamless transition strategies between fleet training programs, considering the intricacies of multiple aircraft types and operational likelihoods.
- Provide regulatory guidance and oversight to Boeing AQP and Airbus N&O training departments.
- Collaborate with the Managing Director and process owners to develop long-range strategies supporting key training initiatives and AQP across multiple fleet types.
- Independently leverage expert training and strategic knowledge to develop unique, competitive training advantages for Alaska Airlines, ensuring adherence to performance objectives.
- Coordinate strategic planning to ensure stakeholder engagement, conducting Safety Risk Analyses to document planning and comparative risk evaluations.
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with Alaska and Horizon training and operational division partners.
- Collaborate with financial, planning, and analysis teams to support divisional budgets, variance reviews, and economic analyses for capital and expense projects.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Managing Director.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Ten years of experience in pilot training and program management.
- Bachelor's degree; an additional two years of relevant experience may substitute for the degree.
- Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, including financial analysis and spend management planning.
- 1500 hours as Captain and Check Pilot in 121 operations.
- Demonstrated ability to influence cross-departmental alignment around company strategies.
- Proven track record of building and maintaining strong, collaborative relationships.
- Demonstrated knowledge of FAA guidance and its practical application.
- Experience facilitating meetings, developing, and delivering presentations.
- Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum age of 18.
- Legal authorization to work in the U.S.
- Demonstrated change management skills and ability to challenge the status quo.
Preferred:
- 121 pilot management experience.
Leadership Expectations:
The ideal candidate will embody Alaska Airlines' values: Own Safety, Do the Right Thing, Be Kind-hearted, Deliver Performance, and Be Remarkable.
Compensation and Benefits:
Salary Range: $147,400 - $228,400 annually. (Note: Hiring typically occurs below the top of the range.) Pay is determined by factors including location, experience, skillset, and internal equity. Alaska/Horizon offers competitive benefits, including:
- Free standby travel privileges on Alaska Airlines & Horizon Air with high priority status.
- Annual confirmed travel credits.
- Comprehensive well-being programs (medical, dental, vision).
- Generous 401(k) match program.
- Quarterly and annual bonus plans.
- Generous holiday and paid time off.
For detailed information on Alaska/Horizon Total Rewards, please visit our career site.
Application Deadline: (Date removed for privacy)
Equal Employment Opportunity: Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and are proud to be Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employers. We encourage applications from people of color, women, LGBTQIA+, immigrants, veterans, and persons with disabilities.