Chief Pilot – Part

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Full Time Black Hills Aviation, Rapid City, SD, US

3 days ago Requisition

Black Hills Aviation is part of the Riddle’s Group, a family-owned company with a diverse portfolio of businesses throughout the region. Our aviation operation is based in Rapid City and is focused on providing safe, professional, and reliable aviation services.

We are seeking an experienced Chief Pilot to lead our flight operations and play a key role in the development and management of our FAA Part 135 operation.

This is a hands-on leadership position for an experienced aviation professional who understands the regulatory, operational, and safety responsibilities associated with Part 135 operations.

Position Summary

The Chief Pilot is responsible for the leadership and oversight of the company's flight crew and flight operations. This position ensures that flight operations are conducted safely and in accordance with FAA regulations, company policies, Operations Specifications, and applicable company manuals.

The Chief Pilot will oversee pilot qualifications and training, crew scheduling, operational standards, safety, and regulatory compliance while working closely with company leadership and other aviation management personnel.

The ideal candidate will have significant Part 135 experience and prior experience serving as a Chief Pilot, along with strong leadership, communication, and operational decision-making skills. This is an on-site role, located in the Rapid City, South Dakota area. Relocation assistance can be available for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the company's designated Chief Pilot for Part 135 operations, subject to FAA approval and qualification.
• Provide leadership, direction, and oversight to all flight crew members.
• Ensure flight operations comply with applicable FAA regulations, Operations Specifications, company manuals, and established safety procedures.
• Oversee pilot qualifications, currency, proficiency, training, and records.
• Coordinate initial, recurrent, upgrade, and other required pilot training.
• Maintain accurate pilot qualification and training documentation.
• Develop and manage pilot schedules while maintaining compliance with applicable crew qualification, duty, and rest requirements.
• Monitor flight operations and ensure pilots adhere to established company procedures and operational standards.
• Provide operational guidance regarding weather, routing, aircraft performance, airport considerations, and other flight-related matters.
• Promote sound aeronautical decision-making and a strong safety culture.
• Assist with development, implementation, and maintenance of company flight operations manuals, procedures, checklists, and training programs.
• Coordinate with maintenance personnel regarding aircraft availability, discrepancies, inspections, and operational readiness.
• Assist with operational planning as the Part 135 operation grows.
• Investigate and document operational incidents, irregularities, and safety concerns as appropriate.
• Ensure required FAA and company records are maintained accurately and timely.
• Maintain professional relationships with FAA personnel, customers, vendors, and aviation partners.
• Serve as Pilot in Command when assigned and appropriately qualified.

Required Qualifications

• Previous experience serving as a Chief Pilot for a Part 135 operator.
• Minimum of 3 years of qualifying PIC experience under Part 135 or Part 121, consistent with applicable FAA requirements.
• Current FAA pilot certificate appropriate for the company's operation.
• Appropriate aircraft category, class, instrument, and type ratings as applicable.
• Qual…