We are a highly innovative surveying and engineering company with over 60 years of industry experience serving clients throughout the US and Caribbean. At Pickett, we use the acronym S.O.L.V.E. to define our core values that include: Safety first, Outstanding service, Lasting relationships, Valued teamwork and Engaged culture. “We solve the problems that matter” and we are always looking to add passionate, motivated, and qualified individuals to our rapidly expanding team. About The Role: As a Chief Pilot, you will oversee and monitor pilots and aircraft on all aviation projects. The Chief Pilot ensures that all pilots and aircraft are mission ready and adhere to the U.S. Imaging Flight Operations Manual and Safety Standards, as well as comply with Federal, State, and FAA regulations. In this role, you will need to consider weather conditions, risks and flight requirements, ensuring that all aircraft is being operated to the highest level of safety. The Chief Pilot will also serve as Pilot in Command on remote sensing missions when required. While acting as Pilot in Command, you will be responsible for planning, managing, and executing these missions including coordinating all missions with appropriate agencies and internal team members. What You Will Be Doing: Provide leadership and management of pilots and flight operations to ensure efficient and effective use of people and equipment Organize, schedule, and equip planned deployments with aircraft, sensors, and qualified pilots in coordination with the Remote Sensing Specialist Responsible for overall mission planning and safety of flights Prepare flight strategy for data acquisition missions in controlled airspace Exercise judgement at the job site in determining conditions and procedures critical to safe and effective data collection Lead pilot and support teams in setting priorities for the sequence of workflow to ensure the most efficient completion of each project Work closely with the Director of Flight Operations to ensure all required maintenance is completed in compliance with FAA requirements Provide training oversight and act as a resource to assigned staff; transfer knowledge to staff, and identify training needs Manage pilot currency and training requirements Ensure flight crews have the information needed to perform effectively and efficiently Conduct annual and bi-annual performance reviews and personal development plans for all assigned employees Responsible for development and management of aircraft operations and support safety programs in coordination with Director of Flight Operations. Safely operate the company’s single engine fixed wing aircraft Coordinate missions with Air Traffic Control as required Perform a thorough aircraft preflight check before each flight Conduct flight planning and maintaining flight logs Coordinate with field survey crews as needed Out of town travel and work on weekends, as needed What You Bring: High School Diploma/GED and three (3) years of relevant work experience or a Bachelor’s Degree (Aviation related degree preferred) 2+ years of leadership experience in similar operations Valid US Commercial Pilot License - Aircraft Single-Engine and Instrument Rating w/ High Performance and Complex Endorsement (required) Second-class medical certificate (must possess or be able to obtain) Valid Passport (with valid proof of legal US residency) Valid US Driver’s License CFI (Certified Flight Instructor) Working knowledge and understanding of aviation safety programs, including Safety Management System (SMS) and Emergency Response Plan (ERP) Ability to work in a safe manner and always obey safety regulations Ability to lift 50 pounds intermittently; sit for long periods of time in a small aircraft Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends Strong communication skills, both verbal and written Computer proficiency (MS Office Suite) Attention to detail with the ability to demonstrate confidence, professionalism, high self-motivation, integrity and solid decision-making abilities Non-flight activities will include, safety related planning, preparing/coordinating missions, aircraft cleaning/organizing, training, and other tasks as assigned by Director of Flight Operations Flight Experience Requirements: Minimum of 1500 hours total flight time Extensive understanding of all FAA Airspace to include focus on Class B, Class C, and Restricted airspace Broad level of experience flying aerial survey missions to include topographic and utility Full understanding of specific aerial survey tools (LiDAR, GPS, digital imagery, etc.) So...Why Join Us? You will have the opportunity to learn, grow and directly contribute to our business. You will also have a very visible and tangible impact by solving real world problems. You will contribute significantly to the growth and development of our company while also continuing to be challenged and inspired along the way! We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive health insurance & benefits, retirement planning support, PTO and more.