The Director of Operations (DO) serves as the primary operational executive responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient conduct of all flight operations under the company’s Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate. In accordance with 14 CFR §§119.65 and 135.77, the DO has authority over flight operations and direct responsibility for the control, direction, and supervision of all flight, ground, and operational personnel. This position ensures adherence to FAA regulations, company manuals, and the Safety Management System (SMS) as required under 14 CFR Part 5.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintain operational control and ensure compliance with appropriate regulations
- Oversee and lead reviews of company policies, procedures, and manuals, including General Operations Manual (GOM), Operations Specifications, and SMS documentation.
- Coordinate and communicate with the FAA Principal Operations Inspector (POI) and other regulatory representatives.
- Supervise and coordinate with the Chief Pilot, Director of Maintenance, and other department heads to ensure operational alignment and regulatory adherence.
- Review and approve flight and duty schedules to ensure compliance with crew duty and rest requirements under 14 CFR §135.267.
- Oversee pilot qualification, training, and checking in accordance with federal regulations and industry standards
- Monitor company flight operations to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with operational specifications.
- Cooperate with the Safety Manager in risk management, safety assurance, and safety promotion activities consistent with the company’s SMS and 14 CFR Part 5 requirements.
- Ensure proper coordination of aircraft dispatch, load control, and flight following activities.
Additional Duties and Oversight Responsibilities:
- Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local aviation regulations and company policies.
- Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for operational efficiency, safety performance, and compliance.
- Oversee emergency response procedures and ensure all personnel are trained per company emergency plans.
- Participate in audits, inspections, and FAA oversight activities, addressing findings promptly.
- Coordinate with maintenance and scheduling to ensure aircraft availability and operational readiness.
- Approve and supervise operational training programs, including initial, recurrent, and upgrade training.
- Ensure proper recordkeeping and documentation for all operational activities per 14 CFR §135.63.
- Maintain current knowledge of industry best practices, FAA regulatory changes, and emerging technologies.
Required Qualifications:
- Must meet the requirements of 14 CFR §119.67(b):
- Hold or have held at least an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate.
- Have at least three years of experience within the past six years as pilot-in-command of a Part 121 or Part 135 operation, or equivalent military experience.
- Demonstrated knowledge of 14 CFR Parts 5, 61, 91, 119, and 135.
- Proven ability to manage complex operational departments and maintain compliance with regulatory frameworks.
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Must be eligible to work in the United States and able to pass all TSA and FAA background checks.
Physical & Travel Requirements:
- Ability to lift, bend, crawl, and maneuver in tight spaces; lift up to 40 lbs unassisted
- Ability to work in an office, hangar, and airport environment.
- Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and on-call shifts as required
- Must hold a valid passport and be able to travel domestically and internationally for aircraft support and training
- Travel required for operational inspections, audits, training oversight, and company representation.
Preferred Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or related field.
- Previous experience as a Chief Pilot, Check Airman, or Operations Manager under Part 135 or 121.
- Familiarity with Safety Management Systems implementation under 14 CFR Part 5.
- Experience interfacing with FAA Certificate Management Offices (CMO/FSDO).
- Knowledge of advanced scheduling, compliance tracking, and operational control systems (e.g., Wyvern, ARGUS, Flightdocs, CAMP, or similar).
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive salary (based on qualifications and experience)
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and holidays
- Opportunities for career advancement within a growing company
