Chief Pilot – Aviation Leadership Opportunity
An esteemed aviation department is seeking an accomplished and safety-focused Chief Pilot to lead its flight operations. This pivotal leadership role demands a strong commitment to excellence in safety, regulatory compliance, and unparalleled customer service. The Chief Pilot will be instrumental in supervising all flight crew operations, ensuring adherence to the highest standards, overseeing comprehensive training and efficient scheduling, and actively participating in flight duties. This position plays a critical role in fostering a high-performing, professional, and safety-conscious flight department.
Key Responsibilities
- Provides exemplary leadership and supervision to all flight crew members, offering guidance, training, and performance oversight.
- Develops, maintains, and rigorously enforces standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant flight operations.
- Ensures all flights are conducted in strict compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, company policies, and industry-leading safety standards.
- Participates actively in flight duties on a regular basis, encompassing both domestic and complex international operations.
- Coordinates meticulous pilot scheduling, adheres strictly to duty time limitations, and ensures optimal flight readiness.
- Evaluates and mentors pilots, fostering professional growth, continuous improvement, and unwavering regulatory compliance.
- Assists in the strategic management of aviation department expenditures and proactively identifies opportunities for cost optimization.
- Supports comprehensive maintenance oversight, including inspections and audits, in close coordination with maintenance personnel and external vendors.
- Maintains all required operational records with precision, ensuring timely and accurate documentation of training, flight hours, and certifications.
- Collaborates effectively with leadership to define departmental goals and spearhead proactive safety initiatives.
- Promotes a robust culture of teamwork, professionalism, and exceptional customer service throughout the flight department.
Qualifications and Experience
Required Qualifications:
- Minimum of 10,000 total flight hours, including:
- 5,000 hours in turbine aircraft
- 5,000 hours as Pilot in Command (PIC)
- Holds a current FAA First Class Medical Certificate.
- Possesses a valid FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate.
- Demonstrated significant experience in both domestic and international flight operations.
- Minimum of 5 years of corporate aviation experience.
- Proven leadership and effective mentoring skills within an aviation context.
- Comprehensive understanding of FAA regulations, Safety Management System (SMS) programs, and aviation industry best practices.
- Maintains a professional, discreet, and service-oriented demeanor.
- Exhibits the ability to adapt seamlessly in dynamic situations and maintain composure under pressure.
- Possesses a valid, unrestricted passport for international travel.
Preferred Qualifications:
- A Bachelor's degree is preferred.
- Type-rated in Challenger 604 aircraft.
Additional Qualities for Success
- A profound passion for safety and an unwavering commitment to operational excellence.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational abilities.
- A team-oriented approach with a dedicated commitment to company culture and values.
- Technically skilled with a proactive, hands-on leadership style.
Physical & Travel Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods and perform all duties associated with operating aircraft.
- Adequate hearing and vision capabilities essential for communication and navigation.
- Capacity to assist passengers as needed and oversee comprehensive preflight safety inspections.
- Frequent travel, up to 75%, including extensive international destinations, is required.
This role is ideal for an experienced pilot with a distinguished record of leadership, an unyielding commitment to safety, and a passion for delivering exceptional service. Prospective candidates are invited to join a dedicated team and help set the standard for private aviation excellence.