Lead Flight Operations Engineer

Placements24; Paarl; Hybride; ZAR 900 000 - 1 300 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Health coverage

Retirement savings

Professional development

Paid time off

Résumé du poste

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, invites applications for a Lead Flight Operations Engineer to oversee the technical aspects of flight operations, optimize flight plans, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management or Aerospace Engineering, 7+ years in flight operations with 3+ years in leadership, and deep knowledge of flight planning software, aircraft performance, and meteorology.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management or Aerospace Engineering (or related field).
• 7+ years in flight operations with at least 3 years in a supervisory/lead role.
• Strong knowledge of flight planning software and systems.

Responsabilités

• Lead development and refinement of flight plans for efficiency, safety, and fuel economy.
• Analyze aircraft performance including weight, balance, fuel calculations, takeoff/landing performance.
• Ensure flight operations comply with aviation regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate with flight crews, dispatchers, and air traffic control to manage operations.
• Monitor weather conditions and their impact on operations, providing updates.
• Utilize flight planning software and other tools to support decision-making.
• Conduct post-flight analysis to identify improvements.
• Develop and deliver training on flight planning and procedures.
• Stay updated on advancements in flight operations technology and best practices.
• Manage and mentor a team of flight operations staff.

Connaissances

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Data analysis

Communication

Decision making under pressure

Pilot/dispatcher experience advantage

Formation

Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering

Related field

Outils

Flight planning software

Regulatory knowledge (ICAO, SACAA)

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic aviation services company, is seeking a proactive and experienced Lead Flight Operations Engineer to join their team in Paarl, Western Cape . This crucial position involves leading the technical aspects of flight operations, ensuring the efficiency, safety, and regulatory compliance of all flight planning and execution processes. The Lead Flight Operations Engineer will be responsible for developing and optimizing flight plans, analyzing aircraft performance, and collaborating with flight crews and dispatchers. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in flight operations, a comprehensive understanding of aircraft performance, navigation systems, and meteorology, as well as excellent analytical and leadership skills. This is an outstanding opportunity to contribute to a key operational function within the aviation industry, based in the heart of the Cape Winelands.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and refinement of flight plans, optimizing routes for efficiency, safety, and fuel economy.
• Analyze aircraft performance data, including weight and balance, fuel calculations, and takeoff/landing performance.
• Ensure all flight operations comply with current aviation regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate closely with flight crews, dispatchers, and air traffic control to manage flight operations effectively.
• Monitor weather conditions and their potential impact on flight operations, providing critical updates.
• Utilize flight planning software and other operational tools to support decision-making.
• Conduct post-flight analysis to identify areas for operational improvement.
• Develop and deliver training on flight planning and operational procedures to relevant personnel.
• Stay abreast of advancements in flight operations technology and best practices.
• Manage and mentor a team of flight operations support staff.

This role requires regular presence at our Paarl, Western Cape office.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in flight operations or a related aviation role, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or lead capacity.
• Comprehensive knowledge of flight planning software and systems.
• Strong understanding of aircraft performance, aerodynamics, and meteorology.
• Familiarity with aviation regulations governing flight operations (e.g., ICAO, SACAA).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Experience as a pilot or dispatcher is a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package tailored to experience and qualifications, along with a robust benefits program that includes comprehensive health coverage, retirement savings options, and ample opportunities for professional development and further training. This role offers the significant satisfaction of contributing directly to the smooth and safe operation of flights. Employees enjoy a collaborative and supportive work environment, performance-based incentives, and generous paid time off. Join our team and help shape the future of flight operations in scenic Paarl, Western Cape .