Chief Flight Instructor (AT)

L3Harris, a global leader in aerospace and defense technology, seeks a highly qualified and experienced Chief Flight Instructor (CFI) to oversee all aspects of simulator-based flight training at our facility in Crawley, West Sussex, UK. This pivotal role demands a proactive leader with a proven track record in aviation training, regulatory compliance, and safety management.

The incumbent will lead a team of instructors and be responsible for the effective and efficient delivery of all simulator programs. They will ensure the maintenance of the highest training standards and regulatory compliance with various National Aviation Authorities including the UKCAA and EASA. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of simulator technology and a strong commitment to fostering a culture of excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Oversight: Supervising and coordinating all simulator-based flight training programs, ensuring up-to-date syllabi, manuals, and lesson plans. Developing and implementing improvements to simulator training processes, procedures, and curricula. Supporting the scheduling and efficient use of flight simulators.
Instructor Management and Development: Recruiting, training, and managing simulator instructors, ensuring they meet all regulatory and company standards. Conducting regular performance evaluations and fostering continuous professional development. Providing mentorship and guidance to maintain high standards of instruction and ensure instructors remain current with the latest training methods and industry regulations.
Regulatory Compliance: Maintaining strict compliance with all National Aviation Authority regulations pertaining to flight training and simulator use. Liaising with the National Aviation Authority and clients during audits. Ensuring all training records and documentation meet regulatory standards.
Safety and Compliance Management: Implementing and enforcing safety procedures within the simulator training environment. Regularly reviewing and updating safety protocols in alignment with best practices and regulatory requirements. Participating in Safety Management System processes to mitigate risk in training operations. Overseeing the compliance management processes related to training delivery and equipment (simulators).
Curriculum and Syllabus Development: Leading the design and development of courseware, simulation exercises, and training modules in collaboration with the instructional design team. Regularly updating the training syllabus to reflect changes in technology, regulations, and industry practices, particularly for Type Rating and recurrent training.
Training Delivery and Evaluation: Providing training to new and current instructors, ensuring proficiency in simulator instruction. Conducting standardisation sessions to ensure consistent, high-quality instruction. Leading periodic assessments to monitor training effectiveness and ensure it meets industry standards.
Simulator Maintenance and Technology: Working closely with technical teams to ensure simulators are well-maintained and meet certification requirements. Staying informed of technological advancements in flight simulation and recommending upgrades or improvements as necessary.

Qualifications:

Valid Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), including relevant Type Ratings.
Meet all regulatory requirements for a Chief Flight Instructor position as specified by the appropriate aviation authority.
Extensive experience as a Type Rating Instructor, with a strong focus on simulator-based training.
Experience in managing or leading training operations within an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) or airline training department.
Demonstrated experience in complying with regulatory standards for flight training.

Skills and Competencies:

Exceptional leadership and management capabilities.
In-depth understanding of simulator technology and its application in flight training.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to effectively liaise with regulatory authorities, instructors, and students.
Proficiency in administrative tasks including record-keeping, scheduling, and regulatory documentation.
Familiarity with Safety Management Systems (SMS).
Leadership: Capable of leading and developing a team of instructors.
Attention to Detail: Ensures training programs meet high standards of safety and quality.
Problem-Solving: Ability to address training issues, regulatory concerns, or simulator malfunctions effectively.
Communication: Effectively communicates with staff, students, and regulatory bodies.

Additional Requirements:

Flexibility to work varied hours to meet operational needs.
Availability for travel to simulator locations or for training and meetings.
Must have the right to work in the UK.

Benefits:

L3Harris offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 25 days holiday per year (plus bank holidays), increasing with long service and with the opportunity to buy/sell up to 5 days, private medical insurance with optional family cover, pension scheme of up to 7% employer contribution, life assurance 4x salary (flexible up to 10x), group income protection, flexible opt-in extras such as a health care cash plan, dental insurance, gym membership, critical illness cover and cycle to work scheme, employee assistance program, subsidised staff restaurant, and staff car park with electric vehicle charging stations.

L3Harris Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace.