Director of Operations (14 CFR Part 135)

Location: Southern California

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Director of Operations to oversee all flight operations for our FAA-certificated Part 135 air carrier based in Southern California. The Director of Operations is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant flight operations while maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence and regulatory compliance.

The successful candidate must meet all qualification requirements outlined in 14 CFR Part 119 for the Director of Operations position and possess extensive experience in Part 135 operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Exercise operational control over all company flight operations in accordance with 14 CFR Parts 119, 91, and 135.

• Ensure continuous compliance with all applicable Federal Aviation Regulations and company operating specifications.

• Develop, implement, and maintain company flight operations policies, procedures, and operational manuals.

• Oversee the company’s Safety Management System (SMS), promoting a proactive safety culture and risk management throughout the organization.

• Maintain and revise the General Operations Manual (GOM), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), training manuals, and other operational documentation.

• Coordinate with the FAA Principal Operations Inspector (POI) and other regulatory officials regarding operational matters.

• Utilize the FAA Safety Assurance System (SAS) to support certificate management, inspections, corrective actions, and regulatory compliance.

• Supervise flight crew scheduling, qualifications, training requirements, and operational readiness.

• Monitor operational performance, safety trends, and regulatory changes to ensure continuous improvement.

• Lead internal audits and support external FAA inspections.

• Investigate operational events and implement corrective and preventive actions as necessary.

• Work closely with the Director of Maintenance, Chief Pilot, Director of Safety, and executive management to ensure efficient and compliant operations.

• Participate in emergency response planning and operational decision-making.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants must meet the qualification requirements for Director of Operations under 14 CFR Part 119, including all applicable experience requirements established by the FAA.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Previous experience serving as Director of Operations, Chief Pilot, or other management position for a Part 135 certificate holder.

• Extensive knowledge of 14 CFR Parts 91, 119, and 135.

• Thorough understanding of FAA Operations Specifications.

• Demonstrated experience implementing and managing a Safety Management System (SMS).

• Strong working knowledge of FAA Safety Assurance System (SAS).

• Experience developing and maintaining FAA-approved operational manuals, including:
  
  

  • General Operations Manual (GOM)

  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

  • Training Manuals

  • Emergency Response Plan (ERP)

• Experience with FAA certification, surveillance, inspections, and audits.

• Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and decision-making skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced operational environment.

• Bachelor’s degree in aviation or a related field is preferred but not required.

Desired Experience

• Five or more years of management experience in Part 135 flight operations.

• Experience operating turbine aircraft in charter or corporate aviation.

• Previous interaction with FAA Certificate Management Offices.

• Experience leading safety initiatives and operational risk management.

• Familiarity with electronic manual management systems and aviation compliance software.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Paid vacation and holidays.

• 401(k) retirement plan.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.