Clay Lacy Aviation is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Captain for a Gulfstream GIVSP based in Tulsa, OK (KTUL). The successful candidate will serve as a flight crewmember and as a liaison, ensuring effective communication between the account and various departments within Clay Lacy Aviation, including the Account Manager, Director of Maintenance, Director of Training, Assistant Chief Pilot, and Trip Support Specialists. The Lead Captain ensures crew compliance with all applicable regulations, directives, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). He/She will assist in coordinating training events, reviewing expense reports and invoices, and managing crew member schedules, while fostering positive working relationships and upholding Clay Lacy Aviation's company culture within the flight department.
The Lead Captain will act as Pilot in Command (PIC) or Second in Command (SIC) as designated and ensure adherence to flight and maintenance schedules. Compliance with flight and duty time limitations, as outlined in the General Operations Manual (GOM) for Part 135 operations, or reasonable adherence to Part 135 standards for Part 91 operations, is essential. The Lead Captain will ensure the completion of pre-flight/post-flight duties and inspections in accordance with the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM). He/She will coordinate with the Director of Maintenance and Account Manager to maintain aircraft cleanliness and manage aircraft inventory to meet owner requirements. Monitoring crew member performance and communicating observations to the Assistant Chief Pilot for annual performance reviews is also a key responsibility. The Lead Captain will also complete and approve crew expense reports in accordance with company policy and review monthly billing summaries, reporting any discrepancies. Coordination and management of crew member days off and vacation requests, along with relaying this information to the Assistant Chief Pilot and Account Manager, is required. The Lead Captain will also liaise with the Assistant Chief Pilot and Director of Training, conducting monthly reviews of currency and upcoming training requirements, as well as annual aircraft black book audits. Furthermore, the role involves ensuring compliance with fleet requirements and maintaining familiarity with installed equipment, including all required regulatory aircraft operational authorizations and mandates.
Maintenance-related responsibilities include awareness of scheduled and unscheduled maintenance events, assisting in the resolution and communication of mechanical Aircraft on Ground (AOG) events, reviewing monthly work order invoices, and coordinating maintenance-related items with the Maintenance Controller or Director of Maintenance.
Additional responsibilities encompass ensuring all trip-related requests or changes are communicated to the Charter Department and Chief Pilot's office, assisting in gathering operational data for special projects, mediating relationships within the flight department, cultivating relationships with external stakeholders, and ensuring the perpetuation of Clay Lacy Aviation's company culture. Providing constructive feedback, working with the Account Manager in managing the aircraft owner's overall experience, updating the Scheduling Specialist regarding aircraft schedule changes, and coordinating regular flight department meetings are also essential. The Lead Captain will participate in the interview process and selection of flight department personnel and make recommendations for additional training.
Candidates must possess strong customer relations skills, demonstrate a sense of urgency and enthusiasm, work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and maintain the trust and confidence of others. Pilot skills consistent with operational requirements, the ability to prioritize workflow, exceptional interpersonal skills, analytical and critical thinking skills, initiative, and the ability to work under pressure are essential.
Minimum experience requirements include those necessary to safely operate the assigned aircraft in compliance with company regulations. Applicable FAA Part 91 and/or FAA Part 135 requirements for the assigned aircraft type are preferred. A current ATP certificate and First Class Medical are required. Candidates must reside within a two-hour drivable commute of Tulsa, OK (KTUL) or be willing to relocate.