Job Description

Assistant Chief Pilot (Aviation Manager)

The Assistant Chief Pilot supports the Chief Pilot in managing daily flight operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, safety, and alignment with Life Link III’s mission. Acting as a liaison between crews and leadership, the role promotes a strong safety culture and continuous improvement. This role supervises pilots, assists with training and evaluations, and addresses crew concerns, escalating issues as needed. At times, they perform line pilot duties, provide administrative coverage, and support the training department through instruction and evaluation. The Assistant Chief Pilot embodies and lives out Life Link III’s mission and values.

This hybrid position is based at a Life Link III base and from home, with travel to other Life Link III bases as needed. Must live in either Minnesota or Wisconsin near a Life Link III base.

Key Responsibilities:

Flight Operations & Regulatory Compliance:

• Supports daily flight operations aligned with patient care, regulations, and SOPs
• Monitors operational issues and coordinates with the Chief Pilot for resolution
• Holds delegated FAA Tier 1 operational control under 14 CFR Part 135.77
• Acts on behalf of the Chief Pilot when delegated; supervises pilots and ensures compliance with FARs, GOM, and training standards
• Maintains check pilot certification and supports pilot evaluations and training records
• Ensures accurate flight documentation and participates in compliance audits and monthly aviation meetings

Leadership & Talent Development:

• Engages and mentors pilots, fostering a culture aligned with Life Link III’s mission
• Supports recruitment, retention, performance, and disciplinary documentation in collaboration with HR
• Oversees scheduling, pilot orientation, and internal programs to support operational readiness

Collaboration & Communication:

• Maintains a positive attitude, with open, honest, and respectful communication to all stakeholders
• Provides on-time feedback that contributes to ongoing development of pilots
• Work in collaboration with leaders from other departments to ensure the bases operate in a manner that supports Life Link III’s patients, partners, and values

Quality, Safety & Risk Management:

• Actively participates in Life Link III’s Safety Management System (SMS) including reporting hazards and incidents encountered in daily operations
• Understands, complies, and promotes the Life Link III Safety Policy; and other safety duties as assigned by the Director of Aviation Safety, including:
  • Aviation Safety Representative
  • Assisting in the investigative process for Incident Reports
  • Assisting in the Base Safety program

What We Offer:

• Compensation: annual salary of $140,000 – $158,000 depending on experience
• Additional $775 bonus for each front-line pilot shift picked up
• Insurance starting the first of the month after date of hire:
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Health Savings (HSA) on qualified plans plus an employer match
• Employer Matching on 401(k)
• Competitive Paid Time Off to foster a work/life balance
• Life and AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability, Critical Illness and Accident Insurance
• Cell Phone and Internet Stipends available
• Annual $1500 reimbursement available for professional development

Compliance/HIPAA: Must perform work in the manner prescribed by documented work process in order to ensure compliance with all rules and regulations, accreditation standards and laws that apply, specifically work processes that involve billing practices, for avoiding activities that constitute fraud and abuse.

Employment Status Requirements: Life Link III does not sponsor employment visas of any kind. As a pre-condition of employment, all applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Life Link III is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and believe in providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, marital or family status, status with regard to public assistance, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Our commitment to an equitable workplace extends to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, training, working conditions, compensation, benefits, and termination. We are dedicated to maintaining a workplace that is free of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, and where all individuals can thrive professionally.

If you require any accommodations to apply or participate in our hiring process, please contact Life Link III human resources.

Job Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

• 1–3 years of strong leadership experience
• Commercial pilot certificate and instrument Rating for category and class of aircraft (ATP in category meets this requirement)
• 2000 hours total flight time
• 1500 hours flight hours in category
• 1000 hours PIC in category
• 500 hours of rotorcraft turbine time
• 200 hours of cross
• 100 hours of unaided night - 50 hours of unaided night can be accepted with a minimum of 100 hours of aided night
• 50 hours of hood or actual time instrument time in flight in category (Simulator time does not count) A pilot that is dual qualified in fixed wing with 100 hours of actual instrument time can reduce this requirement to 25 hours
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; able to travel and work flexible hours
• Holds a valid driver’s license and FAA First or Second-Class Medical Certificate
• Maintains currency in at least one Life Link III aircraft; knowledgeable in 14 CFR Parts 91, 119, and 135
• Possesses a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating (ATP acceptable)
• Strong interpersonal, motivational, and team-building skills
• Proven ability to foster an inclusive, collaborative, and ethical work environment
• Skilled in conflict resolution, relationship building, and operational problem-solving
• Customer-focused with effective communication and active listening abilities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field
• Certified Flight Instructor Instrument and Instructor Pilot Experience
• Experience in coaching, mentoring, and developing a team

Job Tags

Full time, Temporary work, Live in, Work at office, Local area, Work from home, Visa sponsorship, Work visa, Flexible hours, Shift work, Night shift,

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