Director of Flight Operations

About the role

Fargo Jet Center is seeking an experienced and strategic aviation leader to serve as Director of Operations (DO) for their Aircraft Management & Charter Department. This role represents the highest level of operational authority and is responsible for ensuring the safety, regulatory compliance, and overall performance of all flight operations conducted under their Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate at Hector International Airport (KFAR).

Responsibilities

• Exercise final authority over the initiation, continuation, and termination of all flight operations.
• Ensure full compliance with FAA regulations, including maintaining the General Operations Manual (GOM), Operations Specifications (OpSpecs), and training programs.
• Serve as the primary point of contact with the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) for certificate management, audits, and inspections.
• Lead and continuously improve the Safety Management System (SMS), reinforcing a proactive and accountable safety culture.
• Partner with the President to support operational growth, including fleet planning, pilot staffing, and long-term capability development.
• Work closely with the Director of Maintenance to ensure aircraft airworthiness, MEL compliance, and operational efficiency.
• Lead, develop, and hold accountable the Chief Pilot and pilot group, including recruitment, selection, and performance management.
• Maintain aircraft qualification and serve as a line pilot as needed to remain actively connected to operations.

Requirements

• Must meet Director of Operations qualifications under 14 CFR §119.71(a)
• Current Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate
• Minimum 3 years of supervisory or managerial experience within the past 6 years in a role exercising operational control under Part 121 or 135, or Minimum 3 years as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) under Part 121 or 135 within the past 6 years (for first-time DO candidates)
• Current FAA First Class Medical Certificate
• 3,000+ total flight hours; 1,500+ multi-engine; 750+ turbine BE-300 type rating or experience with King Air and/or light-to-mid-size jet aircraft
• Strong working knowledge of FAA Order 8900 and FAR Part 135
• Proven ability to lead in a high-accountability, client-focused environment
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with aircraft owners, clients, and regulatory authorities

Preferred Qualifications

• Preferred working knowledge of FAA Order 8900 and FAR Part 135

Additional Requirements

• Successful completion of pre-employment and random drug screening and background check
• Clean driving record
• Able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Physically able to climb, balance, bend, crouch, sit for extended periods, and lift up to 50 lbs
• Authorized to work in the United States (no visa sponsorship available)

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: Commensurate with experience
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
• Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA, Dependent Care FSA, 401(k), and Paid Time Off
• Company-provided Pilot Occupational Disability Insurance (Loss of Medical)