Director of Flight Operations

Position Overview

Fargo Jet Center is seeking an experienced and strategic aviation leader to serve as Director of Operations (DO) for our 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 our Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate at Hector International Airport (KFAR).

This is a key leadership position with direct influence on operational excellence, safety culture, and the continued growth of our charter operations.

About Fargo Jet Center

Fargo Jet Center (FJC), headquartered in Fargo, ND (KFAR), and subsidiary Premier Jet Center (PJC), based in Eden Prairie, MN (KFCM), are recognized leaders in aviation services and have been ranked among the top aviation service companies in the world. Both facilities offer a full-service FBO including refueling and ground support, maintenance, avionics, and special mission completions, aircraft charter and management, and upholstery and paint services. Additionally, FJC offers flight training and has U.S. Customs on-site. Fargo Jet Center and Premier Jet Center are members of NATA, NBAA, the Avfuel-branded FBO network, Pinnacle Air Network, and the Paragon Aviation Group.

Key Responsibilities

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

Required Qualifications

• Must meet Director of Operations qualifications under 14 CFR §119.71(a)
• Current Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate
• Experience:
  • 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

Preferred Qualifications

• 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

Additional Requirements

• Successful completion of pre-employment and random drug screening and background check
• Clean driving record
• Ability 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
• Must be 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)