Chief Aviation Officer: Safety, Strategy & Flight Ops

New England Life Flight Inc.; Bedford (MA); On-site; USD 215,000 - 225,000; Full time

Job summary

Boston MedFlight in Bedford, MA is seeking a Chief Aviation Officer to provide strategic leadership over flight operations, maintenance, and aviation safety. The CAO ensures safety, compliance, and operational excellence across the aviation unit while aligning with the organization’s mission.

The role requires directing the aviation leadership team, managing budgets, and representing the organization to regulators and partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in related field or equivalent.
• 10+ years aviation leadership experience, preferably in air medical transport.
• 5+ years in senior or executive aviation leadership with direct supervisory experience.
• FAA Airframe & Powerplant or Commercial Pilot Certificate (Rotorcraft/Helicopter – Instrument). This is a non-flying position; current medical certificate and currency are not required.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience as an A&P or PIC for an HAA organization.
• Proven ability to develop, implement, and continuously improve aviation policies and procedures.
• Strong interpersonal, listening, writing, and public speaking skills, with the ability to work independently and lead cross-functionally.
• Demonstrated critical thinking, problem-solving, and team-building ability
• Working knowledge of aviation regulations, policies, best practices.
• Demonstrated financial and budget management expertise.
• Willingness to travel as needed for organizational representation and meetings.
• Must have reliable weekday scheduling capability.

Responsibilities

• Maintain the highest standards of safety, performance, and compliance for aviation operations under FAA regulations and CAMTS standards.
• Oversee senior aviation leaders ensuring coordinated and safe operations; direct communication to the CEO.
• Ensure departments have resources to maintain required documentation and records per regulations and standards.
• Support aviation quality functions including internal audits, corrective actions, and safety data programs.
• Provide executive oversight of flight operations and maintenance quality programs.
• Participate in strategic planning and act as aviation advisor to CEO and Board.
• Represent the organization with hospitals, regulators, and partners.
• Develop fleet replacement strategy and capital expenditure planning.
• Prepare and manage annual aviation budget with forecasting.
• Collaborate with HR on staffing, compensation, performance evaluation, and policies.
• Foster a high-performing culture and cross-functional teamwork.
• Coordinate with clinical leadership to support patient care within aviation safety requirements.
• Oversee vendor relationships to support fleet performance and reliability.
• Support community outreach and development initiatives.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field or relevant equivalent experience

Advanced degree in aviation, business administration, or a related field

Job description

Boston MedFlight in Bedford, MA is seeking a Chief Aviation Officer to provide strategic leadership over flight operations, maintenance, and aviation safety. The CAO ensures safety, compliance, and operational excellence across the aviation unit while aligning with the organization’s mission.

The role requires directing the aviation leadership team, managing budgets, and representing the organization to regulators and partners.