Chief Pilot

pacificoenergy; Kent (WA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

pacificoenergy in Kent, WA is seeking a Chief Pilot to lead our Airborne ISR missions. This role involves overseeing all flight operations, ensuring adherence to FAA regulations, and managing a team of flight personnel.

The Chief Pilot will play a crucial role in maximizing operational efficiency and safety while also mentoring and training pilots. This position requires significant flight experience and strong leadership skills, with responsibilities extending to cross-department collaboration within the organization.

Qualifications

• FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate or Commercial Pilot Certificate with appropriate endorsements.
• Minimum of 10 years of flight experience, including time as a pilot-in-command (PIC) in military and general aviation settings.
• Previous experience in DCMA, Part 91, and Part 135 flight operations.
• Military aviation experience in ISR operations is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all flight operations for Airborne ISR missions.
• Ensure all flight activities meet safety standards and regulatory compliance.
• Supervise and mentor flight crew personnel.
• Develop and implement pilot training programs.
• Review flight data to ensure continuous optimization of flight operations.
• Collaborate with other departments and stakeholders.

Skills

Flight Operations Management

Safety and Compliance

Personnel Management

Training and Development

Flight Performance Monitoring

Cross-Department Collaboration

Education

FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate

Minimum 10 years flight experience

Job description

We are a dynamic Airborne ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) company specializing in providing critical airborne services for government, defense, and commercial clients. Our mission is to deliver high-quality, reliable, and efficient air operations while maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance, and performance. The Chief Pilot will play a key role in ensuring the safe and effective operation of our fleet across military and general aviation environments, including DCMA, Part 91, and Part 135 flight operations.

The Chief Pilot will oversee the operational aspects of all flight crews, ensuring that all flying activities are performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with FAA regulations (Part 91 and Part 135), military requirements, and company policies. This position is essential to the management and growth of our airborne ISR capabilities and requires an experienced leader with a strong background in aviation operations, flight safety, and personnel management.

What you get to do:

• Flight Operations Management:

  • Oversee and manage all flight operations for the Airborne ISR missions, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations (Part 91 and Part 135), Department of Defense policies (DCMA), and applicable airspace requirements.

  • Coordinate flight schedules, crew assignments, and operational resources to ensure maximum efficiency and safety.

• Safety and Compliance:

  • Ensure all flight activities meet safety standards, including conducting regular safety briefings, incident investigations, and audits of operational procedures.

  • Develop, implement, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and policies related to flight operations, including emergency procedures, crew duty times, and flight crew training.

  • Maintain continuous compliance with FAA, DCMA, and military regulatory requirements.

• Personnel Management and Leadership:

  • Supervise and mentor flight crew personnel, ensuring ongoing training and professional development.

  • Provide leadership and guidance to pilots to ensure high levels of crew performance, safety, and morale.

  • Oversee pilot recruitment, selection, and retention strategies to build and maintain a qualified and capable flight team.

• Training and Development:

  • Develop and implement pilot training programs in accordance with FAA, company, and operational standards.

  • Ensure that pilots are trained and current in all necessary qualifications, certifications, and skillsets required for operational needs.

  • Oversee recurrent training and conduct periodic evaluations of flight crews.

• Flight Performance Monitoring and Reporting:

  • Regularly review flight data and operational performance to identify areas for improvement and ensure continuous optimization of flight operations.

  • Provide operational reports to senior leadership, including incident/accident reports, safety audits, and crew performance reviews.

• Cross-Department Collaboration:

  • Collaborate with other departments, such as Maintenance, Logistics, and Intelligence, to ensure operational objectives are met.

  • Coordinate with government agencies, contractors, and other stakeholders to facilitate smooth execution of airborne ISR missions.

Pilot Qualifications:

• FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate or Commercial Pilot Certificate with appropriate endorsements.

• Minimum of 10 years of flight experience, including time as a pilot-in-command (PIC) in military and general aviation settings.

• Previous experience in DCMA, Part 91, and Part 135 flight operations, with a strong understanding of regulatory compliance.

• Previous experience in Airborne ISR operations preferred.

Leadership Experience:

• At least 5 years of leadership experience in aviation, particularly in flight operations management, crew leadership, or training.

• Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor a team of flight professionals while maintaining a high standard of operational excellence.

Military Experience:

• Military aviation experience (Air Force, Army, Navy, or equivalent) is highly desirable, particularly in ISR operations, flight training, and operational management.

Operational Expertise:

• Extensive knowledge of aviation regulations (FAA, DCMA, and military).

• In-depth experience with Part 91 and Part 135 flight operations, including flight planning, crew scheduling, and operational oversight.

• Familiarity with airborne intelligence collection and ISR mission coordination is a plus.

Skills and Attributes:

• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

• Proactive, results-driven with a focus on safety and operational efficiency.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to pass a FAA Class 1 or Class 2 Medical Examination.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as required for operational needs.

• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including on-site operational environments and travel as necessary.

Additional Information:

• This position may require frequent travel and extended hours to meet operational demands.

• Candidates must be eligible for security clearance as required for government contracts.