Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) | Pilot

Principal Pilot

Location: Fort Bliss, TX

Job Type: Full Time

Requisition Number: R0029612

Position Overview

The Principal Pilot is responsible for overseeing critical and complex missions, providing expert guidance, and setting strategic operational directions. This role focuses on mission success through advanced piloting skills, exceptional leadership, and a comprehensive understanding of strategic objectives. The incumbent will provide significant input into program development, operational strategy, and the mentorship of senior and junior pilots.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the execution of high-stakes and complex missions.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to support organizational objectives.
• Provide expert piloting skills for the most challenging and critical missions.
• Mentor and guide senior and junior pilots, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Oversee safety, regulatory compliance, and risk management for all missions.
• Serve as a key advisor to leadership on aviation and operational matters.
• Lead the analysis and review of mission outcomes to drive improvements.
• Collaborate with engineering and technical teams to enhance aircraft performance and safety.
• Represent the organization in high-level meetings and briefings.
• Drive innovation and excellence in all aspects of flight operations and mission execution.

Required Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience.
• Minimum of 5,000 hours of total flight time.
• Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with instrument and multi-engine ratings.
• Proven leadership experience in high-stakes operational environments.
• In-depth knowledge of strategic planning and aviation management.
• FAA issued Second Class Medical Certificate.
• Ability to pass an FAA/Military Pilot Background Check and mandatory drug and alcohol screen.
• Minimum of 1,500 hours total fixed-wing pilot-in-command (PIC) time in multi-engine turbo-prop or jet aircraft (GTOW 12,500 lbs or greater). Note: PIC is defined as Captain/Aircraft Commander of record. Only fixed-wing time applies.
• Active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance.
• Army Instructor Pilot certification.
• U.S. Citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Military flight training background.
• Experience in executive leadership roles within combat or operational missions.
• Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification.
• Advanced degrees in aviation, aerospace, or related fields.
• Experience with cutting-edge aviation technology and systems.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field of study.
• Recent mission completion and/or prior service.
• U.S. Military survival and/or physiological training.
• Background in the Aerospace and Defense Industry, the U.S. Department of Defense, or U.S. Military.
• 2,000 hours total fixed-wing time as PIC or second-in-command (SIC) in multi-engine turbo-prop or jet aircraft (GTOW 12,500 lbs or greater).

Essential Functions

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly.
• Ability to remain seated and operate flight controls for extended periods.
• Frequent travel required; ability to be on-call for missions.
• Ability to work in potentially hazardous or high-stress environments.
• Must possess fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination for operating aircraft controls.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Must be able to hear and respond to audio cues in loud environments.
• Capacity to work in an office or hybrid environment when not on missions.

Compensation and Benefits

The organization offers annual incentive pay commensurate with the position level. The comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision plans, a 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks of paid time off, and tuition reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other characteristics protected by law.