Chief Pilot, Part 135 Operations Leader

Black Hills Aviation; Rapid City (SD); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Leadership role

Part 135 development

Family-owned company

Safety-focused culture

Competitive compensation

On-site in Rapid City

Job summary

Black Hills Aviation, based in Rapid City, SD, seeks an experienced Chief Pilot to lead flight operations for FAA Part 135. This on-site role requires strong leadership, regulatory knowledge, and the ability to manage pilot training, scheduling, and safety programs.

Ideal candidate has prior Chief Pilot experience in Part 135, excellent judgment, and the ability to balance operations with regulatory responsibilities. Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as Chief Pilot for a Part 135 operator.
• Minimum 3 years PIC experience under Part 135 or Part 121.
• Current FAA pilot certificate appropriate for Part 135 operation.
• Appropriate aircraft category, class, instrument, and type ratings as applicable.
• Qualified to serve as PIC in at least one aircraft used in the operation.
• Strong working knowledge of FAA regulations applicable to Part 135 operations.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Excellent judgment and decision-making.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple operational priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Meet all FAA, DOT, company, and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the company's designated Chief Pilot for Part 135 operations, subject to FAA approval and qualification.
• Provide leadership, direction, and oversight to all flight crew members.
• Ensure flight operations comply with applicable FAA regulations, Operations Specifications, company manuals, and established safety procedures.
• Oversee pilot qualifications, currency, proficiency, training, and records.
• Coordinate initial, recurrent, upgrade, and other required pilot training.
• Maintain accurate pilot qualification and training documentation.
• Develop and manage pilot schedules while maintaining compliance with applicable crew qualification, duty, and rest requirements.
• Monitor flight operations and ensure pilots adhere to established company procedures and operational standards.

Skills

Part 135 experience

PIC experience

FAA regulations knowledge

Leadership

Communication

Job description

Black Hills Aviation, based in Rapid City, SD, seeks an experienced Chief Pilot to lead flight operations for FAA Part 135. This on-site role requires strong leadership, regulatory knowledge, and the ability to manage pilot training, scheduling, and safety programs.

Ideal candidate has prior Chief Pilot experience in Part 135, excellent judgment, and the ability to balance operations with regulatory responsibilities. Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate.