Confidential Employer — Texas, USA
Pay: $170,000–$190,000 per year
Chief Pilot — Part 135 Operator (West Texas) Location: West Texas (base airport details provided upon interview) Employment Type: Full-Time Reports To: Director of Operations About the Opportunity A well-established Part 135 charter operator based in West Texas is seeking an experienced Chief Pilot to lead flight operations. This is a hands-on leadership role for a pilot who wants to fly the line while also shaping the safety culture, training standards, and operational reliability of a growing certificate. Company name withheld at this stage; details will be shared with qualified candidates. The Role As Chief Pilot, you will serve as the primary point of accountability for flight operations under our Part 135 certificate, working closely with the Director of Operations and Director of Safety to ensure every flight is conducted safely, legally, and efficiently. Core Responsibilities: • Serve as the certificate's Chief Pilot per 14 CFR Part 135 requirements
• Oversee pilot hiring, training, and standardization (initial, recurrent, and check rides)
• Develop and maintain training programs, GOM/FOM/training manuals, and SOPs
• Monitor pilot currency, qualifications, and duty/rest compliance
• Serve as a check airman or coordinate with contracted check airmen as needed
• Fly line trips as PIC to maintain proficiency and operational visibility
• Investigate irregularities, incidents, and safety reports; drive corrective actions
• Liaise with the FSDO on operational and certification matters
• Support fleet, route, and crew scheduling decisions
• Champion a strong safety culture (SMS experience a plus)
Qualifications • ATP certificate with appropriate type rating(s), or ability to obtain
• Meets 14 CFR 135.153 Chief Pilot experience requirements
• Prior Part 135 experience required; prior Chief Pilot, Check Airman, or Director of Operations experience strongly preferred
• Clean FAA record; must pass FAA/company background and drug testing program
• Strong working knowledge of Part 135 regulations, OpSpecs, and FAA oversight processes
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Willingness to be based in West Texas
What We Offer • Competitive salary: $170,000–$190,000, commensurate with experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Relocation assistance considered for the right candidate
• A lean, close-knit team where your leadership directly shapes the operation
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