Chief Pilot & Flight Operations Base Manager (Part 135)

Chief Pilot & Flight Operations Base Manager (Part 135) 

Location: White Plains, NY(On site)

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent (W2)

About Our Client

Our client is a recognized Part 135 commuter and on-demand charter operator delivering premium private air travel throughout North America and the Caribbean. The organization has built its reputation on rigorous safety standards, a well-maintained fleet, and a crew-first culture, positioning it as a long-term career destination within the charter aviation space.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $160,000 – $180,000 annually, commensurate with leadership experience

• Starting Bonus: Not specified in source — confirm with client before posting

• Relocation Assistance: Negotiated case-by-case for the right candidate

• Schedule: Monday through Friday, with line flying approximately once every two weeks on Northeast regional routes (e.g., Teterboro, NJ and surrounding corridors)

• Benefits Package: Not specified in source — confirm with client before posting

Job Summary

This is a leadership-track opportunity for an experienced Part 135 pilot ready to move into a permanent, highly visible base management role. The position is structured as roughly 95% operational leadership and 5% active flying, making it well suited for a pilot seeking a stable, predictable schedule without stepping away from the cockpit entirely. The Chief Pilot will report to the senior Chief Pilot and act as the primary operational lead for the HPN base, overseeing a team of 95 pilots across a fleet of 38 aircraft, with a strong emphasis on coaching and developing early-career flight crew. Pilots who do not currently hold a Pilatus PC-12 type rating will receive full sponsorship and support to obtain certification upon hire.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct oversight, coaching, and day-to-day support to a team of 95 flight crewmembers, addressing performance matters constructively

• Partner with senior leadership and the Chief Pilot to maintain smooth daily flight operations and clear communication between crews and dispatch

• Conduct pilot evaluations, base-level standardization checks, and recurrent training as required

• Uphold full regulatory compliance with FAA Part 135 standards and the company's General Operations Manual (GOM)

• Support recruiting, interviewing, and onboarding of new pilots at the base

Minimum Requirements

• Prior experience as an Assistant Chief Pilot, Base Lead, or Chief Pilot overseeing an operation of 10 or more pilots

• At least 3 years of direct Part 135 operational experience

• FAA Commercial or ATP certificate with applicable ratings

• Valid FAA First Class Medical Certificate

• Strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills, with a demonstrated ability to mentor early-career flight crew

Ideal Qualifications

• CFI, CFII, or MEI instructor credentials

• Prior experience as a Check Airman or Check Pilot

Elevate Your Career

Apply for this Chief Pilot position and let Rio Staffing connect you with one of the industry's most respected charter operators. We're committed to fast, transparent communication and strong advocacy throughout your hiring process, helping you find a leadership role where you can build a lasting legacy. Our direct hire team specializes in placing top aviation professionals into positions where they can lead, mentor, and grow.

Apply with us or reach out today at www.riostaffing.com to find your perfect role.