Virginia Tech is dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), fostering an inclusive community committed to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The Auxiliary and Business Services (ABS) division supports this mission by providing essential products and services that enable the university community to succeed.
Air Transportation Services (ATS), operating under ABS, ensures the provision of safe, professional, and on-demand air transportation. This critical service is extended to eligible passengers, including Virginia Tech employees conducting official university business, invited guests supporting university functions, employees of university-related corporations, and private entity partners who share aircraft ownership.
The Role: Second in Command Pilot (SIC)
The Second in Command Pilot (SIC) operates as a vital member of the Virginia Tech Air Transportation Services team. The SIC reports directly to the Senior Director for Auxiliary Services and operates under the direct supervision of the Pilot in Command (PIC) during assigned flight duties. The primary responsibility of the SIC is to assist the PIC in the professional and customer-focused transportation of clients to designated domestic and international destinations aboard the university’s executive aircraft fleet.
Pilots within ATS are expected to maintain the highest levels of safety, professionalism, and client confidentiality. The incumbent is also expected to consistently exemplify Virginia Tech’s Principles of Community and support the university’s core value, Ut Prosim.
Regulatory and Medical Compliance
While pilots operating under FAR Part 121 (Commercial Aviation) typically retire at age 65, Virginia Tech, as a FAR Part 91 private operator, permits pilots to continue service until age 67. To ensure stringent safety standards, pilots aged 65 or older must pass a flight physical every six months and rigorously maintain a First-Class FAA Medical Certificate.
Essential Qualifications
Candidates for the Second in Command Pilot position must satisfy the following mandatory requirements. The incumbent must also meet and adhere to all requirements set forth in the Virginia Tech Air Transportation Services Flight Operations Manual.
Must hold an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) license.
Possession of either a Citation XL (CE56XL) or Citation Sovereign (CE680) type rating.
Demonstrated ability to safely operate multiengine jet aircraft in all flight conditions, including coast-to-coast domestic and international environments (specifically Canada).
Excellent cockpit management and interpersonal communication skills.
Must maintain an excellent safety record.
Proficiency with standard office software applications.
Demonstrated ability to interact effectively and comfortably with people from diverse backgrounds, exhibiting strong customer service skills.
The ability to work on an as-needed, sporadic basis to fulfill the university’s travel requirements.
The ability and willingness to undertake overnight travel as required.
Minimum Flight Hour Requirements:
2,500 hours total flight time.
200 hours instrument time.
500 hours multiengine time.
200 hours multiengine turbine and/or jet time.
Preferred Qualifications
Highly qualified applicants will also possess the following advantageous experience:
Previous Pilot in Command (PIC) experience.
Experience operating in non-towered, non-radar, and mountainous flight areas.
Demonstrated experience working with executive management.
Previous work experience within a university or large institutional environment.
A college degree or equivalent experience.
Preferred Flight Hour Requirements:
3,500 hours flight time.
800 hours instrument time.
800 hours multiengine turbine and/or jet time.
Logistics and Compliance Information
Pay Band: 5
Overtime Status: Non-Exempt (Eligible for overtime)
Appointment Type: Regular
Hours per Week: Sporadically as needed
Salary Information: Commensurate with experience
Review Date: October 21st, 2025
Physical and Regulatory Requirements
The successful candidate must adhere to the following stringent compliance measures:
Must obtain and continuously maintain a First Class FAA Medical Certificate, requiring a yearly medical examination up to age 65, and semi-annually thereafter until age 67.
Must maintain a current Commercial Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, and Multiengine Rating.
Ability to safely move and handle objects weighing up to 75 pounds (requiring reaching, pulling, pushing, bending, and raising).
Must successfully complete a criminal background check and driver's license check.
Employment is contingent upon successfully completing a pre-employment drug screening.
Incumbents are subject to random, reasonable suspicion, and post-accident drug and alcohol screening.
The position is subject to being scheduled 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to meet mission requirements.