ICON Aircraft | Chief Pilot

Chief Pilot & Security

Location: Vacaville, CA

Department: Quality & Security Center

Job Type: Full-time

ICON Aircraft, operating under SG Investment America dba ICON Aircraft, is a pioneering consumer airplane manufacturer. Founded in response to the FAA's creation of the sport flying category, ICON is dedicated to reinventing personal flying. The company's mission is to provide consumer-friendly, safe, technologically advanced aircraft that expand the freedom, fun, and adventure of flying to a wider audience. ICON’s long-term vision focuses on the democratization of personal flight and 3-D mobility.

ICON's flagship aircraft is the A5, an amphibious sport plane renowned for its outstanding aeronautical engineering, world-class design, and unprecedented safety features. The A5 is the world's first production spin-resistant aircraft and a leading light sport aircraft in General Aviation, recognized globally with prestigious design awards. Headquartered in Vacaville, CA, with additional offices in Tampa, FL, and Tijuana, MX, ICON operates a significant fleet of A5 aircraft across the United States and internationally.

The Chief Pilot & Security assumes a critical leadership role, overseeing all flight operations, ensuring rigorous safety standards, and managing the pilot team. This position is integral to maintaining compliance with aviation regulations, developing pilot proficiency, and representing ICON Aircraft in flight demonstrations and customer engagement activities.

Primary Responsibilities:

Flight Operations Management: The Chief Pilot is responsible for the oversight of daily flight operations, ensuring strict adherence to company policies and all applicable aviation regulations. This includes developing and implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs), conducting regular safety audits and risk assessments, and investigating flight incidents or accidents with a focus on preventative measures. The role involves representing the flight department in external forums, including regulatory discussions and industry conferences, and participating in budget planning and management related to flight operations.

Pilot Training and Development: Designing and overseeing comprehensive training programs for company pilots is a key function. This includes conducting initial and recurrent training sessions, encompassing both ground school and in-flight instruction for company pilots and third-party partners. The Chief Pilot is also tasked with evaluating pilot performance and providing constructive feedback.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that all flight operations comply with FAA regulations and other relevant authorities is paramount. The role requires maintaining up-to-date knowledge of aviation laws and industry standards and preparing for and facilitating regulatory inspections and audits.

Flight Demonstrations and Customer Engagement: The Chief Pilot conducts flight demonstrations for potential customers, media, and stakeholders, and participates in air shows, trade shows, and other promotional events. Providing exceptional customer service and support to ICON A5 owners and pilots is an essential aspect of this role.

Team Leadership and Collaboration: Leading, mentoring, and managing the flight operations team is vital, fostering a culture of safety, excellence, and teamwork. The Chief Pilot collaborates closely with engineering, sales, marketing, and service departments to support overarching company objectives and contributes to strategic planning and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Qualifications:

• Holds an FAA CFI (Commercial and Instrument Rated) certificate.
• Possesses an FAA ASEL Commercial Certificate or higher.
• Minimum of 500 hours of total flight time.
• Minimum of 100 hours of dual instruction given (civilian or military flight training).
• Holds a minimum of an FAA Second-Class Medical Certificate.
• Possession of a Seaplane Rating (may be obtained after job offer and prior to starting at ICON).
• Prior experience in a leadership role within flight operations.
• Strong knowledge of FAA regulations and aviation safety standards.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality flight instruction and pilot training.
• Passion for aviation and a commitment to ICON Aircraft’s mission.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience with light sport aircraft, particularly the ICON A5.
• Background in conducting flight demonstrations and customer engagement.
• Experience in aviation safety management systems (SMS).

Physical Requirements:

• Due to aircraft weight and balance requirements, the Chief Pilot must maintain a weight not exceeding 200 lbs.
• Maximum height of 6’4”.