Director of Flight Operations
Location:
Fargo, ND
Position Status:
Full-Time, Exempt
Position Overview
Fargo Jet Center is seeking a strategic aviation leader to serve as the Director of Operations (DO) for the Aircraft Management & Charter Department. In this role, the incumbent holds the highest level of operational authority, ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and peak performance for all flight operations conducted under the Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate at Hector International Airport (KFAR).
Key Responsibilities
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Operational Authority:
Exercise final decision-making authority over the initiation, continuation, and termination of all flight operations.
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Regulatory Compliance:
Maintain full adherence to FAA regulations, including the management of the General Operations Manual (GOM), Operations Specifications (OpSpecs), and training programs.
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FAA Liaison:
Serve as the primary point of contact for the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) regarding certificate management, audits, and inspections.
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Safety Leadership:
Direct and enhance the Safety Management System (SMS) to foster a proactive, high-accountability safety culture.
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Strategic Planning:
Collaborate with the President on fleet planning, pilot staffing, and long-term operational development.
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Cross-Functional Coordination:
Partner with the Director of Maintenance to ensure airworthiness, MEL compliance, and operational efficiency.
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Team Leadership:
Manage the Chief Pilot and pilot group, including recruitment, selection, and performance management.
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Operational Engagement:
Maintain aircraft qualifications and serve as a line pilot as needed to ensure active connection to daily operations.
Required Qualifications
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Must meet Director of Operations qualifications under 14 CFR §119.71(a).
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Current Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate.
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Current FAA First Class Medical Certificate.
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Minimum of 3 years of supervisory or managerial experience within the past 6 years exercising operational control under Part 121 or 135; OR a minimum of 3 years as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) under Part 121 or 135 within the past 6 years (for first-time DO candidates).
Preferred Qualifications
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3,000+ total flight hours; 1,500+ multi-engine; 750+ turbine.
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BE-300 type rating or experience with King Air and/or light-to-mid-size jet aircraft.
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Strong working knowledge of FAA Order 8900 and FAR Part 135.
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Proven leadership ability in a high-accountability, client-focused environment.
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Exceptional communication skills for engagement with aircraft owners, clients, and regulators.
Additional Requirements
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Successful completion of pre-employment and random drug screening and background check.
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Clean driving record.
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Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
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Physical ability to climb, balance, bend, crouch, sit for extended periods, and lift up to 50 lbs.
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Must be authorized to work in the United States (no visa sponsorship available).
Compensation & Benefits
Fargo Jet Center offers a comprehensive compensation package, including:
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Salary commensurate with experience.
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Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
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Comprehensive benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA, Dependent Care FSA, 401(k), and Paid Time Off.
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Company-provided Pilot Occupational Disability Insurance (Loss of Medical).