RESPONSE AVIATION SEARCH — Southern California
Estimated salary for Transportation, Storage and Distribution Managers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025): $82,440–$146,770 per year, median $107,230. The employer did not provide a pay range for this listing.
PLEASE CONTACT ME DIRECTLY ANDREW GUTTERMAN (929) 476 9598 Agutterman2@responseco.com
Chief Pilot — Part 135 (Southern California)
Privately Owned, Members-Only Operation
Position Overview: A privately owned, Southern California–based aviation company is seeking a Chief Pilot to lead flight operations within a members-only Part 135 operation. All aircraft are owned by a single principal, and the operation is structured to prioritize consistency, professionalism, and long-term stability over high-volume charter activity. While operating under Part 135, the environment reflects many aspects of a Part 91-style operation, with a focus on relationships, operational quality, and disciplined execution. This position serves as both Chief Pilot and operational leader, with responsibility for pilot management, regulatory compliance, and day-to-day flight department performance. The role also includes direct interaction with ownership and participation in broader company decision-making.
Key Responsibilities: Provide leadership and oversight of the pilot group, including hiring, onboarding, training compliance, and performance management Manage and track all pilot training requirements to ensure regulatory and insurance compliance Oversee scheduling coordination and operational coverage across the fleet Support and execute Director of Operations–level responsibilities, including FAA interaction, manual oversight, and operational approvals Serve as the primary resource for flight crew on operational questions, flight risk decisions, and real-time problem solving Maintain an active flying role, historically averaging approximately 10 flight days per month Work closely with ownership on personnel decisions, aircraft configuration, and overall operational direction Assist dispatch with trip planning, feasibility assessments, and execution of complex missions Contribute to executive-level discussions regarding company growth, fleet planning, and operational strategy
Qualifications: Current or recent experience operating under Part 135 Prior Chief Pilot experience preferred, or senior captain with demonstrated leadership capability Strong understanding of FAA regulations, compliance requirements, and flight department management Experience with long-range, high-performance aircraft operations Gulfstream experience strongly preferred (GV-series highly desirable) Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage operational complexity, and make sound decisions under pressure Excellent communication skills with the ability to interface directly with ownership and executive leadership
Requirements: Must be currently based in Southern California (relocation is not available for this role) Ability to maintain all required certifications and qualifications for Part 135 operations Flexibility to support operational demands as required
Compensation & Benefits: Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience, aligned with the Southern California market for Chief Pilot roles within comparable operations. A comprehensive benefits package will be provided. Position Summary
This is a unique opportunity within Part 135 for a Chief Pilot to operate beyond traditional flight department responsibilities. The role offers meaningful involvement in operational and strategic decisions, working directly with the owner in a stable, professionally run environment.
PLEASE CONTACT ME DIRECTLY ANDREW GUTTERMAN (929) 476 9598 Agutterman2@responseco.com
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