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Director Of Flight Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ICBD

Director of Flight Operations

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

About the Role The Director of Flight Operations is responsible for the strategic, operational, financial, and regulatory management of the family office aviation program. This leader will oversee ...

Freeman Jet Center

Director of Operations

Abilene, TX · On-site

The Director of Operations has overall authority and accountability for the structure and operation ... Oversees the development of flight schedules, and the retention of duty time / flight records. * Is ...

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Director Of Flight Operations information

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$45K

$97K

$159.5K

How much do director of flight operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of flight operations in the United States is $97,045.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $122,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Director of Flight Operations typically collaborate with other departments within an airline?

A Director of Flight Operations works closely with various departments such as Maintenance, Crew Scheduling, Safety, and Regulatory Compliance to ensure seamless flight operations. Regular coordination with these teams is essential for addressing operational challenges, implementing safety protocols, and maintaining regulatory standards. This collaborative approach helps align flight schedules, resolve issues promptly, and support overall operational efficiency. Effective communication and teamwork are key components of success in this leadership role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director Of Flight Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Of Flight Operations, you need extensive experience in aviation operations, regulatory compliance, and typically hold an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) or similar qualifications. Familiarity with flight planning software, safety management systems (SMS), and aviation regulations such as FAA or EASA standards is essential. Strong leadership, decision-making, and effective communication skills help manage teams and coordinate complex operational demands. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant flight operations within an organization.

What are the responsibilities of a Director of Flight Operations?

A Director of Flight Operations oversees all aspects of an airline or aviation company's flight operations. This includes ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, managing pilots and flight crews, developing operational policies, and coordinating with maintenance and safety departments. They are also responsible for maintaining operational efficiency, addressing safety concerns, and implementing procedures to enhance flight performance. Their leadership is crucial in ensuring that all flights are conducted safely, efficiently, and in accordance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Director Of Flight Operations vs Flight Operations Manager?

AspectDirector Of Flight OperationsFlight Operations Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees all flight operations, strategic planning, compliance, and safety policiesManages daily flight operations, crew scheduling, and operational tasks
Required CredentialsCommercial pilot license, management experience, FAA certificationsCommercial pilot license, operational experience, FAA certifications
Work EnvironmentExecutive leadership, corporate offices, flight departmentsOperational settings, flight bases, airline or corporate flight teams

The main difference is that the Director Of Flight Operations focuses on strategic oversight and policy, while the Flight Operations Manager handles daily operational management. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, but their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Director Of Flight Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Of Flight Operations jobs? Cities with the most Director Of Flight Operations job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Director Of Flight Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Of Flight Operations jobs are:
Director Of Flight Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Of Flight Operations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,045 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Director of Flight Operations

ICBD

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

ICBD is a robust business incubator focused on private investment and business development, supporting exceptional companies in healthcare, technology, and beyond. 

We manage a growing portfolio of high-performance businesses united by a shared commitment to people, operational excellence, and long-term value creation. But we're not just building businesses. We're building a legacy of leadership, innovation, and purpose. 

Joining ICBD means you'll be part of the team behind some of the fastest-growing companies in healthcare, technology, and business services. We are proudly self-funded, committed to sustainable growth, and led by visionary thought leaders, including our CEO and Founder, the 2024 Ernst & Young U.S. Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner. 

Our most visible success is ABA Centers, a revolutionary leader in autism care and diagnostics, ranked #5 on the Financial Times "The Americas' Fastest-Growing Companies 2026" list, following 2025's No. 1 ranking. 

The ICBD portfolio includes these dynamic organizations united by strategic vision, operational expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence: 

  1. ABA Centers - The leading provider of autism care in the U.S., with 13 regional brands and 70+ operating areas. 
  2. GateHouse Treatment - A comprehensive network of substance use disorder programs that address the full spectrum of recovery needs from medical treatment to supportive housing and respite services. 
  3. Marquis MD - A concierge medicine concept redefining healthcare by prioritizing convenience, connection, and care powered by advanced technology. 
  4. Exact Billing Solutions - Innovative revenue cycle management and advanced billing support systems for healthcare providers. 
  5. Curative AI - A next-generation platform using AI to disrupt and transform the healthcare system by providing new solutions for revenue cycle management, scheduling, medical documentation, clinical and diagnostic support, and more. 
  6. The Christopher M. Barnett Family Foundation - The philanthropic heart of ICBD, advancing programs that address autism care, food insecurity, homelessness, women's empowerment, and underserved children. 

Recognition & Awards

At ICBD, our commitment to operational excellence, ethical leadership, and transformative care has earned us recognition across industries. Our portfolio companies and leadership team have been honored with multiple awards, including: 

  1. Inc. 5000 - 25th Fastest-Growing Private Company in America (2025). 
  2. Financial Times - #5 on "The Americas' Fastest Growing Companies." 
  3. EY Entrepreneur Of The Year U.S. Overall. 
  4. South Florida Business Journal's Top 100 Companies. 
  5. Florida Trend Magazine's 500 Most Influential Business Leaders. 
  6. Inc. Best in Business, Health Services. 
     
About the Role

The Director of Flight Operations is responsible for the strategic, operational, financial, and regulatory management of the family office aviation program. This leader will oversee flight operations, aircraft maintenance, crew management, safety programs, compliance frameworks, and vendor relationships. 

The following are duties, responsibilities, and leadership roles that the Director of Flight Operations shall provide:

Aviation Strategy & Program Leadership

  • Develop and execute the aviation strategy aligned with the principal's travel requirements.
  • Advise leadership on aircraft acquisition, leasing, upgrades, or fleet restructuring.
  • Conduct mission analysis to determine optimal aircraft type, configuration, and utilization.
  • Provide cost-per-flight-hour analysis and lifecycle cost projections.
  • Present periodic aviation performance, safety, and risk reports to leadership.

Flight Operations & Program Management

  • Oversee domestic and international flight operations across owned, leased, fractional, and charter aircraft.
  • Ensure crew duty and rest compliance and operational readiness.
  • Coordinate complex trip planning including international permits, fuel planning, and ground handling.
  • Maintain relationships with global FBOs, aviation vendors, and service providers.
  • Establish VIP protocols for principals, family members, guests, and security teams.

Regulatory Compliance & Safety Oversight

  • Ensure full compliance with FAA, ICAO, EASA, TSA, and international aviation regulations.
  • Implement and maintain a robust Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Maintain audit-ready documentation and regulatory records.
  • Oversee operational approvals, international flight permits, and compliance programs.
  • Lead safety audits, risk assessments, and emergency response planning.

Aircraft Maintenance & Airworthiness

  • Oversee maintenance planning, heavy inspections, and aircraft reliability programs.
  • Ensure compliance with airworthiness directives and service bulletins.
  • Monitor maintenance tracking systems and warranty programs.
  • Coordinate Aircraft on Ground (AOG) response planning and vendor support.

Crew Leadership

  • Recruit, vet, and retain highly qualified aviation professionals.
  • Oversee training programs, simulator scheduling, and performance standards.
  • Foster a culture of safety, professionalism, and discretion.
  • Maintain strict confidentiality and protocol standards.

Financial Management

  • Develop and manage the annual aviation budget.
  • Monitor cost-per-flight-hour metrics and operational efficiency.
  • Manage capital planning for aircraft maintenance, upgrades, or acquisitions.
  • Negotiate and oversee aviation vendor contracts.

Security Coordination

  • Partner with executive protection teams to coordinate aviation security protocols.
  • Maintain aircraft access control and passenger manifest procedures.
  • Coordinate secure ground transportation and travel logistics.

Requirements

Qualifications

The Director of Flight Operations requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree with at least 10 years of experience in executive aviation leadership.

  • Experience managing Part 135 operations.
  • Strong background in international aviation operations.
  • Experience supporting aircraft acquisition or fleet management.
  • Deep knowledge of FAA regulations and international aviation standards.
  • Strong financial acumen related to aviation cost modeling.
  • Exceptional discretion and executive presence.

Preferred

  • ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) license.
  • CAM (Certified Aviation Manager) certification.
  • Experience managing multi-aircraft fleets.
  • Experience supporting UHNW individuals or Fortune 100 executives.
  • Experience with Gulfstream, Bombardier Global, or Hawker aircraft platforms.

Benefits

  • 21 paid days off (15 PTO days increasing with tenure, plus 6 paid holidays) 
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options 
  • Medical, dental, vision, long-term disability, life insurance, AD&D insurance, and GAP Plan (TransAmerica) 
  • Generous 401(k) with up to 6% employer match 
  • 100% employer-paid maternity/paternity leave for up to 5 weeks 
  • Tuition reimbursement up to $2,500 per semester 
  • EAP (unlimited counseling 24/7), BeyondMed (discounts on wellness and elective healthcare services), PerkSpot (discounts on top brands), Pet Insurance (Nationwide), and On the GoGa wellbeing hub 

ICBD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to building an inclusive workplace free from discrimination. We make employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. 

ICBD participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. 

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process and employment. If you require assistance or accommodation, please let us know. 

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