About the Role
SpiritJets, a leading Part 135 Charter and Aircraft Management company based in Chesterfield, MO, is seeking an experienced Director of Operations. This critical leadership role is responsible for the overall operational control, regulatory compliance, and strategic direction of all flight operations conducted under the Company's FAA Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate. The Director of Operations (DO) ensures all operational activities adhere to the highest safety standards, efficiency, and full compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), Operations Specifications, and industry best practices. This is a full-time, in-office, non-flying leadership position offering an annual salary of up to $250,000.
-
Maintain operational control and oversight of all company flight operations under FAR 135 and FAR 91.
-
Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, company manuals, OpSpecs, TSA security, and international operating requirements (ICAO, EASA).
-
Provide leadership and supervision to the Chief Pilot, flight crews, and the flight control department.
-
Develop, implement, and maintain operational standards, procedures, and policies.
-
Oversee pilot staffing processes, including recruitment, training coordination, and performance management.
-
Serve as the primary operational liaison with the FAA, FSDO, TSA, and NTSB.
-
Ensure flight crews remain current and compliant with training, qualification, and drug/alcohol prevention program requirements.
-
Coordinate operational response for safety events, irregular operations, and emergency situations.
-
Serve as the Aircraft Operator Security Coordinator (AOSC) in accordance with TSA requirements.
-
Promote the Company Safety Management System (SMS) and a proactive safety culture.
-
Collaborate with Maintenance, Scheduling, Safety, and Executive Leadership to optimize operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
-
Participate in strategic planning, operational budgeting, and continuous process improvement initiatives.
Requirements
-
Must meet all qualifications required under 14 CFR Part 119 for Director of Operations.
-
Hold a current Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate.
-
Possess a minimum of three (3) years of supervisory or management experience within the past six (6) years in a position exercising operational control over operations conducted under Part 121 or Part 135; OR previous experience as a Director of Operations with at least three (3) years as Pilot in Command in Part 121 or Part 135 operations.
-
Demonstrate a strong working knowledge of FAA regulations, Part 135 operations, flight operations management, operational control systems, Safety Management Systems (SMS), and international flight operations and regulatory requirements.
-
Proven leadership, organizational, communication, and decision-making abilities.
-
Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively in a fast-paced operational environment.
-
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and other operational software systems.
-
Excellent interpersonal skills, capable of effectively leading teams and interacting with regulatory agencies, employees, aircraft owners, and clients.
Qualifications
-
Previous experience managing multi-aircraft Part 135 operations.
-
Experience with aircraft management and charter operations.
-
Experience with ARGUS, Wyvern, IS-BAO, or similar aviation audit/compliance programs.
-
Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or a related field.