CHIEF PILOT
Are you a skilled aviator with exceptional leadership qualities? Backcountry Aviation, a Part 135 airline operating in the Pacific Northwest, is seeking a talented and dedicated Chief Pilot to join our growing team. As Chief Pilot, you will be instrumental in guiding our flight operations, ensuring the highest standards of safety, and leading our team of skilled pilots.
SUMMARY OF POSITION:
Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Chief Pilot will be responsible for supervising flight operations personnel in compliance with FARs and ensuring that all pilots are trained, qualified, and proficient for Parts 91 and 135 operations. This position has both tactical and strategic elements; seeking solutions to short-term operational issues and planning long-term solutions to support Backcountry’s strategic vision.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Flight Operations and Operational Control:
- Oversee and manage flight operations, ensuring compliance with all FAA and company regulations and safety standards.
- Authorized by the Director of Operations to exercise Operational Control.
- Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to streamline flight schedules and maintain aircraft airworthiness.
- Responsible for the assignment and scheduling of all pilots.
- Serve as PIC as needed.
- Other duties as assigned by the Director of Operations.
- Management and Training:
- Supports the Director of Operations with employee management, including interviewing, hiring and counseling pilots and operations staff.
- Directs all pilot training activities and compliance programs.
- Supports the Director of Operations with preparing and maintaining pilot and operational records in accordance with Part 135 and DOT requirements.
- Ensures accurate and consistent communication with pilots.
- Prepare and distribute applicable crew member instructions, bulletins, and manual information.
- Safety and Regulatory Compliance:
- Promotes safety in all areas of the operation and ensures implementation of safety programs and management.
- Has the authority and is accountable for all training and manual revisions.
- Represent Backcountry Aviation in regulatory meetings and audits.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:
- Must satisfy the applicable management qualifications of 14 CFR 119.69 and Chief Pilot experience requirements of 14 CFR 119.71(c).
- FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate with Cessna 402C and/or T303 type ratings.
- Minimum of 1,500 flight hours, with at least 500 hours of multi-engine (AMEL) PIC time.
- Previous experience in a leadership role within a Part 135 airline is preferred.
- Strong interpersonal, team-building and communication skills.
- Ability to multitask and handle administrative, operational and flight duties as needed.
- Must be thoroughly familiar with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Company Manuals, Operations Specifications, FAA and DOT regulations and aviation safety standards.
- Must pass DOT drug and alcohol test and hold a valid FAA First Class Medical.
- Ability to travel to offsite locations, including attending meetings or events as a representative of Backcountry Aviation.
BENEFITS:
- Competitive salary base starting at $100,000
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision coverage
- Paid time off
- Employee Discounts
- Possibility to be based in Port Angeles or Seattle
- Possible relocation assistance as needed
Join us as we continue to revolutionize regional aviation and provide unparalleled travel experiences to our passengers. To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and flight logbook to (see our website) with "Chief Pilot Application" in the subject line. We look forward to welcoming an exceptional aviator to our Backcountry family!