Chief Pilot - Part 135 Operations
An established aviation organization is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to serve as Chief Pilot for a Part 135 operation based in the United States. This role oversees flight crew standards, training, operational safety, and regulatory compliance across a mixed fleet, including the Embraer 135, Legacy 600, and Gulfstream IV-SP.
The Chief Pilot acts as the primary deputy to the Director of Operations (DO) and serves as the key liaison with the FAA, maintaining readiness to assume DO responsibilities as required. The ideal candidate values safety, operational precision, and a culture of professional transparency and accountability.
Candidate Requirements
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FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) License.
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Current or previous type rating on Gulfstream IV or equivalent large-cabin aircraft (e.g., Bombardier Challenger 604, Falcon 900EX, Gulfstream G450).
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Minimum 5,000 hours total flight time.
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Minimum 3,000 hours turbojet experience.
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Minimum 2,000 hours Pilot-in-Command (PIC) experience.
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Compliance with 14 CFR 119.71(c) requirements for Chief Pilot or eligibility for deviation.
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Minimum 3 years of PIC experience under Part 121 or Part 135 within the last 6 years.
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Extensive Part 135 operational experience.
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Proven leadership, team management, and AOC administration experience.
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Strong background in FAA liaison and regulatory compliance.
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Valid passport with unrestricted international travel capability.
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TSA background check (CHRC) eligibility.
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Subject to mandatory DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements.
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U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident (Green Card) status.
Terms and Benefits
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Compensation:
USD 225,000 to USD 275,000 per annum (commensurate with experience) plus a stock options package.
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Per Diem:
USD 25 - USD 85 per flying day.
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Employment Status:
Full-time, Exempt.
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Location:
On-site, California.
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Benefits:
Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) plan.
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Leave:
Accrued vacation, sick leave, and bereavement leave.
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Schedule:
Full-time position with 24/7 operational oversight.
Application Requirements
Interested candidates should submit the following documentation:
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Updated CV/Resume.
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Valid FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) License.
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Documentation of last OPC/LPC on Gulfstream IV or equivalent large-cabin aircraft.
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Logbook (personal information page and last 5 pages).
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Valid Class 1 Medical Certificate.
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Available training records.
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Passport copy.
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Proof of valid English language proficiency.
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Updated No accident/incident letter from the CAA.
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CAA Authentication Letter.
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Valid Criminal Record check.