Lead Captain - Gulfstream GIVSP (KTUL)
A prominent aviation operator is seeking a highly qualified and motivated Lead Captain for a Gulfstream GIVSP aircraft based in Tulsa, Oklahoma (KTUL). The ideal candidate will be a skilled aviator and a strong leader, responsible for the overall flight department's operational excellence and fostering effective communication. This position requires residency within a two-hour drivable commute of Tulsa or a willingness to relocate. A type rating on the Gulfstream GIVSP is preferred.
Position Summary
The Lead Captain serves as a key liaison between the aircraft account and the aviation management company. Beyond acting as a flight crewmember (Pilot in Command or Second in Command), the Lead Captain ensures robust communication channels with various departments, including Account Management, Maintenance, Training, Chief Pilot's office, and Trip Support. This role involves overseeing crew compliance with regulations and standard operating procedures, coordinating training, managing crew schedules, and reviewing financial reports such as expense reports and invoices. The Lead Captain is instrumental in cultivating positive working relationships and upholding the company's culture within the flight department.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as Pilot in Command (PIC) or Second in Command (SIC) on designated flights.
- Ensure strict compliance with flight and maintenance schedules, as well as all directives governing aircraft operations.
- Monitor and ensure crew adherence to flight and duty time limitations, applying Part 135 standards or reasonably adhering to them for Part 91 operations.
- Oversee the proper accomplishment of pre-flight and post-flight duties and inspections in accordance with the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM).
- Collaborate with Maintenance and Account Management to ensure timely aircraft cleaning.
- Manage aircraft inventory to meet owner/user requirements.
- Monitor crew member performance and provide input for annual performance reviews to the Assistant Chief Pilot.
- Complete and approve crew expense reports according to company policy.
- Review monthly billing summaries and report discrepancies to accounting and Account Management.
- Coordinate and manage crew member days off and vacation requests, relaying information for scheduling and seeking owner approval when necessary.
- Liaise effectively with the Assistant Chief Pilot and Director of Training.
- Conduct monthly reviews of crew currency and upcoming training or evaluation requirements.
- Perform annual aircraft record audits in coordination with Flight Operations and the Assistant Chief Pilot.
- Ensure compliance with fleet-wide requirements, including SOPs and required paperwork.
- Maintain familiarity with installed aircraft equipment and ensure all required regulatory operational authorizations and mandates are current.
Maintenance Coordination
- Stay informed about scheduled and unscheduled maintenance events.
- Assist in the resolution and communication of mechanical AOG (Aircraft on Ground) events.
- Review monthly work order invoices.
- Communicate effectively with the Maintenance Controller (or DOM) regarding maintenance items and squawks to ensure scheduling and communication are streamlined across relevant departments.
Additional Duties
- Communicate all trip-related requests or changes from the aircraft owner or charter client to the Charter Department and Chief Pilot’s office.
- Assist in gathering operational data for special projects or reporting.
- Mediate and facilitate positive working relationships within the flight department.
- Cultivate strong relationships with external stakeholders and company personnel.
- Ensure company culture and ideals are upheld among flight department members.
- Provide constructive feedback for process and procedure improvements through Account Management or the Safety Management System.
- Collaborate with Account Management to enhance the aircraft owner's overall experience.
- Update the Scheduling Specialist regarding aircraft schedule changes and other matters affecting scheduling.
- Participate in regular flight department meetings to discuss operations, maintenance, budget, address issues, and plan future projects and goals.
- Assist in the interview and selection process for flight department personnel.
- Seek input and approval from Account Management for operational, personnel, and administrative matters.
- Recommend additional training or industry event participation for flight department members.
Competencies and Skills
Candidates should possess:
- Ability to build strong customer relationships and provide customer-centric solutions.
- Proactive approach to new opportunities and challenges.
- Strong collaborative skills to achieve shared objectives.
- Excellent communication skills tailored to diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated integrity, honesty, and authenticity to build trust.
- Pilot skills consistent with operational requirements for the aircraft type.
- Exceptional organizational and prioritization abilities.
- Superior interpersonal skills.
- Proven analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Strong initiative and ability to execute tasks efficiently and accurately.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure as part of a high-performing team.
Qualifications and Requirements
The Lead Captain must meet or exceed the minimum experience required for safe operation of the assigned aircraft in accordance with company Operational Specifications, General Operations Manual, and Flight Operations Manual, while also fulfilling account management responsibilities.
- Applicable FAA Part 91 and/or FAA Part 135 experience on the aircraft type is preferred.
- Must hold and maintain a current Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.
- A current First Class Medical Certificate is required.
- Candidates must reside within a two-hour drivable commute of Tulsa, OK (KTUL) or be willing to relocate.
- A type rating on the Gulfstream GIVSP is preferred.
Benefits
Full-time employees are offered an excellent benefit package, including medical, dental, vision, matching 401(K), and more.