MindWinder Aviation is seeking an experienced Chief Pilot to lead our flight operations and pilot training programs for our Part 135 air carrier certificate operations. This key leadership role is essential to maintaining the highest standards of flight safety, pilot proficiency, and operational excellence in supporting wildfire suppression and emergency response missions as a civilian contractor for the United States Forest Service.

Key Responsibilities:

Flight Operations Management:

• Oversee all flight operations including scheduling, crew assignment, and flight planning
• Ensure compliance with all FAA Part 135 flight regulations and company flight procedures
• Develop and maintain standardized operating procedures and flight training programs
• Conduct pilot proficiency checks, line checks, and recurrent training
• Manage pilot qualifications, currency requirements, and training records

Safety & Standards:

• Implement and maintain flight safety programs and standards
• Investigate flight-related incidents and implement corrective actions
• Conduct safety meetings and promote a strong safety culture among flight crews
• Ensure all pilots meet company and regulatory proficiency standards
• Oversee implementation of Safety Management System (SMS) for flight operations

Pilot Management & Training:

• Lead recruitment, selection, and hiring of qualified pilots
• Develop and conduct initial and recurrent pilot training programs
• Mentor and develop pilot careers within the organization
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide professional development guidance
• Manage pilot scheduling to ensure adequate rest and regulatory compliance

Operational Support:

• Coordinate with maintenance department on aircraft availability and airworthiness
• Work closely with operations control on mission planning and execution
• Interface with customers and government agencies regarding flight operations
• Participate in contract operations planning and execution
• Maintain current knowledge of wildfire tactics and air attack procedures

Regulatory Requirements (Part 119.65):

• Must hold an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with appropriate ratings
• Must be qualified to serve as pilot in command in at least one aircraft used in company operations

AND one of the following:

• For first-time Chief Pilot: Minimum 3 years experience within the past 6 years as pilot in command of an aircraft operated under Part 121 or Part 135
• For candidates with previous Chief Pilot experience: Minimum 3 years experience as pilot in command of an aircraft operated under Part 121 or Part 135

Flight Experience & Qualifications:

• Current FAA medical certificate (First Class preferred)
• Demonstrated experience in Part 135 operations
• Strong knowledge of FAA regulations, particularly Part 135, Part 91, and Part 61
• Experience with crew resource management and flight training

Location:

• Must reside within approximately 60 minutes of Reno, Nevada, or be willing to relocate

Strongly Preferred Qualifications:

• Wildfire/Emergency Response Aviation Experience: Previous experience in aerial firefighting, emergency response, or government contract aviation operations
• Cessna Citation CE-500 Type Rating: Valid type rating with SIC required limitation removed
• Experience as Check Airman or Training Captain
• Previous Chief Pilot experience with Part 135 operator
• Experience with USFS or other federal agency contract flight operations
• Multi-engine turbine experience
• Instructor qualifications (CFI/CFII/MEI)

Essential Skills & Attributes:

• Exceptional leadership and mentoring abilities
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and record-keeping skills
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and in emergency situations
• Commitment to safety and regulatory compliance
• Flexibility to respond to emergency operations and seasonal demands
• Professional demeanor when representing the company to customers and agencies

Working Conditions:

• Regular flying duties as pilot in command
• Office responsibilities for training, scheduling, and administrative duties
• Irregular hours during fire season and emergency response operations
• Ability to travel to remote locations and operate in challenging environments
• Physical ability to meet FAA medical standards and perform pilot duties

Reporting Structure:

• This position reports directly to the Director of Operations and works closely with the maintenance and operations control departments.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and flight time
• Flight pay and per diem for operational flights
• Company-supplemented health insurance, vision and dental
• 3% IRA match fully vested immediately
• Performance-based incentives
• Professional development and training opportunities