Aviation Search Group · 1 week ago
Director of Operations - Part 135
Aviation Search Group is seeking a Director of Operations for a Part 135 Air Carrier. The role is vital for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient operations, overseeing both administrative and flight-related functions while maintaining regulatory compliance and operational control.
Responsibilities
Serve as Director of Operations for Parts 133, 135, and 137
Develop, maintain, revise, and distribute updates to the company General Operations Manual, policies, and procedures
Submit GOM and OpSpecs revisions to the FAA for acceptance; distribute approved revisions to all required personnel
Maintain current knowledge of all applicable FARs, FSIMS 8900 guidance, and industry best practices
Ensure all commercial operations are conducted by properly trained, qualified, and current crewmembers, including route qualifications, currency requirements, and proficiency checks
Oversee the recordkeeping requirements of FAR 135.63
Ensure conformity with all Flight and Duty Time Limitations under Part 135
Verify that all aircraft operated under the certificate comply with the Operations Specifications and relevant regulations
Maintain Hazardous Materials Training Manual and Special Permits in accordance with federal standards
Communicate regularly with the FAA Flight Standards District Office and the NTSB; file all required reports and documentation
Exercise Operational Control with a comprehensive understanding of crewmember qualifications, aircraft capability, contractual demands, and regulatory restrictions
Coordinate closely with the Director of Maintenance to ensure all aircraft adhere to the company maintenance program
Work collaboratively with the General Manager and Chief Pilot regarding flight scheduling and aircraft availability
Assign duty schedules for pilots and ensure adequate staffing for all operational needs
Support and enforce a robust Safety Management System (SMS) in partnership with the Director of Safety
Participate in safety committee activities, incident review, risk mitigation, and policy development
Oversee training conducted by the Chief Pilot, instructors, and Check Airmen
Assist with pilot qualification, training, and checking
Serve as a Check Airman in assigned airframes
Conduct interviews, hire personnel, and perform employee evaluations
Maintain positive, professional relationships with customers and business partners
Collaborate with leadership to create, evaluate, and submit bids and contracts
Assist in adjusting aircraft rates, operational minimums, and financial models
Work with management teams on the acquisition and sale of aircraft
Support tourism-focused operations and contribute to strategies that enhance the guest experience
Report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and execute tasks as assigned
Expected to perform 10–20% flight duties, with the majority of the role focused on operational leadership and administration
Qualification
Required
Commercial helicopter pilot certificate required
First or Second-Class FAA Medical certificate required
Minimum 3 years of experience within the last 6 years as PIC under Part 135 or 121 operations
Demonstrated knowledge of FARs, FSIMS 8900, SOPs, and industry best practices
Minimum 4,000 hours total flight time (more preferred)
Experience in Robinson R-44 and/or R-66, and AS350/H125 aircraft
Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
Effective leadership abilities with the capacity to guide diverse operational teams
Proficient with Microsoft Office applications and aviation scheduling/operational software
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to manage complex logistics in dynamic environments
Exceptional customer service mindset
Able to command respect and maintain authority while working closely with the Chief Pilot and training staff
Comfortable drafting, implementing, and enforcing policy
Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
Ability to pass background and drug screening (Zero Tolerance drug policy)
Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as operational needs require
Ability to travel as needed for operational support or training
Must be able to commute reliably to the primary operating base daily
Preferred
Long-line experience (preferred but not required)
Experience with U.S. Forest Service operations or procedures (beneficial)
OAS Carding (current or previous) preferred
Benefits
Some relocation assistance may be available.
Company
Aviation Search Group
Aviation Search Group is a staffing agency that offers recruiting services to manufacturing, accounting, and airports.
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageCompany data provided by crunchbase