Chief Pilot, Flight Operations & Aviation Education

Texas Southern University; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Southern University in Houston, TX, seeks a Chief Pilot to lead flight operations for its aviation programs. The role includes scheduling pilots, supervising instructors, and ensuring FAA compliance with university policies and safety standards.

The Chief Pilot will contribute to curriculum development, coordinate aircraft use, and uphold high professional and instructional standards within the program. Strong leadership and mentoring abilities are essential.

Qualifications

• Advanced piloting skills with significant flight hours and instrument experience.
• Experience with FAA regulatory compliance, risk management, and standardized procedures.
• Leadership and supervisory abilities, including mentoring instructors and students.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with faculty, staff, and diverse student populations.
• Solid organizational and administrative skills, including record-keeping and reporting.
• FAA Commercial Pilot certificate with appropriate ratings; CFI/CFII preferred; strong safety record; prior chief pilot or senior flight instructor experience.
• Master's Degree in aviation, aerospace, or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all flight operations within the university’s aviation programs.
• Manage pilot schedules and supervise flight instructors.
• Ensure compliance with FAA regulations and university policies.
• Coordinate aircraft utilization and maintain SOPs.
• Collaborate with academic and administrative leadership to align training with program objectives.
• Mentor students and participate in outreach and recruitment activities.

Skills

Flight hours

Multi-engine

Instrument experience

Flight instruction

FAA compliance

Safety management

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

FAA Commercial Pilot certificate (CFI/CFII preferred)

Master's degree in aviation/aerospace or related field

Job description

Texas Southern University in Houston, TX, seeks a Chief Pilot to lead flight operations for its aviation programs. The role includes scheduling pilots, supervising instructors, and ensuring FAA compliance with university policies and safety standards.

The Chief Pilot will contribute to curriculum development, coordinate aircraft use, and uphold high professional and instructional standards within the program. Strong leadership and mentoring abilities are essential.