Job Description

Director of Operations – Part 135

Position Overview

The Director of Operations (DO) is an essential leadership role required for the safe, compliant, and efficient functioning of a Part 135 Air Carrier. This position ensures that all operational activities are conducted in strict accordance with the company’s General Operations Manual (GOM), Operations Specifications, and all applicable Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). The DO must possess deep operational knowledge, strong leadership skills, and the ability to oversee both administrative and flight-related functions.

Primary Responsibilities

Regulatory & Operational Compliance

• Serve as Director of Operations for Parts 133, 135, and 137.
• Develop, maintain, revise, and distribute updates to the company General Operations Manual, policies, and procedures.
• Submit GOM and OpSpecs revisions to the FAA for acceptance; distribute approved revisions to all required personnel.
• Maintain current knowledge of all applicable FARs, FSIMS 8900 guidance, and industry best practices.
• Ensure all commercial operations are conducted by properly trained, qualified, and current crewmembers, including route qualifications, currency requirements, and proficiency checks.
• Oversee the recordkeeping requirements of FAR 135.63.
• Ensure conformity with all Flight and Duty Time Limitations under Part 135.
• Verify that all aircraft operated under the certificate comply with the Operations Specifications and relevant regulations.
• Maintain Hazardous Materials Training Manual and Special Permits in accordance with federal standards.
• Communicate regularly with the FAA Flight Standards District Office and the NTSB; file all required reports and documentation.

Operational Control & Coordination

• Exercise Operational Control with a comprehensive understanding of crewmember qualifications, aircraft capability, contractual demands, and regulatory restrictions.
• Coordinate closely with the Director of Maintenance to ensure all aircraft adhere to the company maintenance program.
• Work collaboratively with the General Manager and Chief Pilot regarding flight scheduling and aircraft availability.
• Assign duty schedules for pilots and ensure adequate staffing for all operational needs.

Safety & Quality Assurance

• Support and enforce a robust Safety Management System (SMS) in partnership with the Director of Safety.
• Participate in safety committee activities, incident review, risk mitigation, and policy development.

Training & Personnel

• Oversee training conducted by the Chief Pilot, instructors, and Check Airmen.
• Assist with pilot qualification, training, and checking.
• Serve as a Check Airman in assigned airframes.
• Conduct interviews, hire personnel, and perform employee evaluations.
• Maintain positive, professional relationships with customers and business partners.

Business & Administrative Functions

• Collaborate with leadership to create, evaluate, and submit bids and contracts.
• Assist in adjusting aircraft rates, operational minimums, and financial models.
• Work with management teams on the acquisition and sale of aircraft.
• Support tourism-focused operations and contribute to strategies that enhance the guest experience.
• Report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and execute tasks as assigned.
• Expected to perform 10–20% flight duties, with the majority of the role focused on operational leadership and administration.

General Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience

• Commercial helicopter pilot certificate required.
• First or Second-Class FAA Medical certificate required.
• Minimum 3 years of experience within the last 6 years as PIC under Part 135 or 121 operations.
• Demonstrated knowledge of FARs, FSIMS 8900, SOPs, and industry best practices.
• Minimum 4,000 hours total flight time (more preferred).
• Experience in Robinson R-44 and/or R-66, and AS350/H125 aircraft.
• Long-line experience (preferred but not required).
• Experience with U.S. Forest Service operations or procedures (beneficial).
• Strong mountain flying experience recommended.
• OAS Carding (current or previous) preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Effective leadership abilities with the capacity to guide diverse operational teams.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications and aviation scheduling/operational software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage complex logistics in dynamic environments.
• Exceptional customer service mindset.
• Able to command respect and maintain authority while working closely with the Chief Pilot and training staff.
• Comfortable drafting, implementing, and enforcing policy.

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass background and drug screening (Zero Tolerance drug policy).
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as operational needs require.
• Ability to travel as needed for operational support or training.
• Some relocation assistance may be available.
• Must be able to commute reliably to the primary operating base daily.

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