Lead Flight Operations Engineer — Route & Performance Optimizer

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement savings

Professional development

Paid time off

Job summary

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Data analysis

Communication

Decision making under pressure

Pilot/dispatcher experience advantage

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering

Related field

Tools

Flight planning software

Regulatory knowledge (ICAO, SACAA)

Job description

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.