Are you a seasoned aviator with a passion for sharing your knowledge and expertise? We're in search of a Chief Flight Instructor who sees instructing as more than just a job—it's a profound calling to mentor, inspire, and shape the next generation of pilots. If you're ready to lead with purpose, drive excellence, and make a tangible difference in the lives of aspiring flyers, then this opportunity is tailor-made for you. Join us in inspiring, empowering, and transforming lives, one lesson, one flight, and one story at a time.

Job Description

Job Overview: The Chief Flight Instructor (CFI) is responsible for the overall management and supervision of the flight training program. This includes ensuring the quality and safety of flight instruction, compliance with aviation regulations, and the professional development of Ignite’s flight instructors and students.

Key Responsibilities:

Flight Training Program Management:
- Develop, implement, and oversee flight and ground training programs.
- Ensure that training materials, manuals, and procedures are up-to-date and in compliance with aviation standards.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the training curriculum and make necessary and timely adjustments.
- Lead regular flight instructor meetings to discuss program updates, address concerns, and foster a collaborative and communicative environment.
- Foster an open lane of communication between the Director of Operations, the Flight Ops Director, and the Assistant Chief position always.
Instructor Oversight:
- Interview, train, mentor and supervise flight instructors.
- Conduct regular evaluations of flight instructors to ensure compliance with standards (standardization), communicate concerns and provide constructive feedback.
- Address, document and resolve any issues related to CFI performance or conduct.
- Collaborate with the Flight Ops Director and CFI’s to maintain efficient and productive schedules for the CFI’s.
- Be responsible for the productivity and efficiency of the Flight Instructor and the utilization of their time.
- Manage instructor time off schedules and assignments.
Safety and Compliance:
- Ensure that all flight training activities comply with aviation regulations and company policies.
- Investigate and report safety incidents or accidents in a timely manner, and implement corrective actions as needed.
- Stay informed about changes in aviation regulations and constantly incorporate updates into the training program.
Student Progress and Evaluation:
- Oversee the tracking of student progress and ensure timely completion of training milestones.
- Review and sign off on student records, endorsements, and certificates.
- Address and resolve any issues related to student performance or conduct.
- Conduct stage checks and backseat lessons as necessary to evaluate student and instructor performance.
Professional Development / Mentorship:
- Provide ongoing training, mentoring, and continually develop opportunities for flight instructors.
- Stay current with industry trends, new technologies, and teaching methodologies. Continually work to innovate and implement these into curriculum and teaching methods.
- Foster a culture of continuous learning, open communication, and mentorship within the flight training team and students.
Customer Relations:
- Interact with students and their sponsors to address concerns, answer questions, and provide updates on training progress.
- Maintain a professional and positive image of the flight training program.
- Constantly emulate a professional aviation leader by maintaining a professional image, a professional message, and a professional demeanor.
- Actively foster the Mission, Conviction, and Core Values of Ignite Flight Academy.

Qualifications:

Hold a valid FAA Flight Instructor Certificate with Instrument and Multi-Engine Instructor ratings.
Must meet FAA Part 141 Chief Instructor minimum qualifications.
Thorough understanding of FAA Part 141 regulations and compliance requirements.
Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Education, or a related field is preferred.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to perform all duties associated with piloting and instructing in aircraft.
Regularly lift 25lbs and occasionally lift/move up to 50lbs.

Compensation

$100,000 - $130,000 per year