Chief Pilot & Flight Operations Leader

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory; Richland (WA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is seeking a senior aviation operations leader to oversee safe, compliant flight operations for mission support flights. You will manage pilots, crew, and mission logistics, and develop training programs to FAA and science-mission standards.

This role also involves budget oversight and liaison with regulators. Ideal candidates hold advanced degrees with extensive PIC hours, leadership in civil government or FAA-certificated operations, and proven ability to

Qualifications

• BS/BA or MS/MA with relevant experience in aviation operations.
• Flight-hour requirements: PIC hours specified including turbine multiengine experience.
• Leadership experience in flight operations roles.

Responsibilities

• Oversee safe, compliant flight operations for aviation missions.
• Lead pilots, crew, and operations support; manage mission logistics.
• Develop and maintain pilot training programs meeting FAA and mission standards.
• Manage budgets, schedules, and interfacing with authorities.

Education

BS/BA in relevant field, 9+ years experience

MS/MA or higher, 7+ years experience

2500+ PIC hours (airplanes)

1000+ PIC hours in turbine multiengine

300+ PIC hours in turbine multiengine with international flights

3+ years as PIC in civil government/military/FAA ops

3+ years in senior flight-ops leadership role

Job description

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is seeking a senior aviation operations leader to oversee safe, compliant flight operations for mission support flights. You will manage pilots, crew, and mission logistics, and develop training programs to FAA and science-mission standards.

This role also involves budget oversight and liaison with regulators. Ideal candidates hold advanced degrees with extensive PIC hours, leadership in civil government or FAA-certificated operations, and proven ability to