Chief Pilot — Part 135 Business Aviation Operator

Total Aviation Staffing; Fort Lauderdale (FL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Total Aviation Staffing's client, a leader in business aviation, seeks a Chief Pilot for their established Part 135 operations in Fort Lauderdale, FL. This is a senior aviation leadership role designed for an experienced professional to drive pilot standards, safety culture, and FAA compliance within a Beechjet and Hawker fleet.

You will mentor pilots, oversee recruitment and training, coordinate with operations, scheduling and maintenance, and represent pilots in interactions with the FAA while

Qualifications

• Hold a valid ATP certificate and PIC qualification with Part 121/135 experience within 6 years.
• Extensive knowledge of FAA regulations and Part 135 requirements.
• Proven leadership, coaching, and mentorship of pilot teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead regulatory compliance by fulfilling duties under 14 CFR § 119.71.
• Ensure adherence to Part 135 flight operation regulations and company policies.
• Serve as liaison with the FAA regarding pilot workforce matters.
• Oversee pilot recruitment, training, qualification, and advancement processes.
• Standardize pilot proficiency across the fleet and approve upgrades.
• Collaborate with training vendors to maintain high-quality programs.
• Champion a safety-first culture with the Director of Safety.
• Mentor pilots and address performance concerns through coaching.
• Coordinate with operations, scheduling, and maintenance teams for missions.
• Participate in incident investigations, safety reviews, and improvements.
• Represent pilots in executive discussions and strategy.

Skills

ATP Certificate

PIC qualification

Part 135 experience

Leadership

FAA regulations knowledge

Job description

Join our client, a leader in business aviation, as the Chief Pilot at their established Part 135 operations in Fort Lauderdale, FL. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced aviation professional to lead pilot standards and training, drive a safety-first culture, and ensure compliance with FAA regulations within a Beechjet and Hawker fleet. This role offers a dynamic and collaborative environment where you can utilize your extensive operational experience, leadership skills, and mature judgment to make a significant impact on the company and its operations.

Responsibilities:

• Lead regulatory compliance by fulfilling all duties defined under 14 CFR § 119.71.
• Ensure adherence to Part 135 flight operation regulations, company policies, and operational directives.
• Serve as the primary liaison with the FAA regarding pilot workforce matters.
• Oversee pilot recruitment, training, qualification, and advancement processes.
• Standardize pilot proficiency across the fleet and approve pilot upgrades and qualifications.
• Collaborate with training vendors to maintain high-quality training programs.
• Champion a safety-first culture in partnership with the Director of Safety.
• Address pilot performance concerns through coaching, mentoring, and disciplinary action when necessary.
• Mentor pilots and support their professional development and career growth.
• Coordinate with operations, scheduling, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless mission execution.
• Participate in incident investigations, safety reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Represent and advocate for pilots while collaborating with executive leadership.

Requirements:

• Hold a valid Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate.
• Maintain current PIC qualification in a company-operated aircraft.
• Have at least 3 years of PIC experience within the past 6 years under Part 121 or Part 135 operations.
• Possess an established career in professional aviation with a strong and proven flight record.
• Have direct experience working in Part 135 operations.
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of FAA regulations and Part 135 requirements.
• Demonstrate strong leadership, coaching, and mentorship experience with pilot teams.
• Competitive base salary of $150,000–$190,000, based on qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package designed to support a balanced and rewarding professional life.
• Opportunity to contribute to a culture focused on safety, transparency, and operational efficiency.
• Professional work environment that supports career development and long-term growth.