Head Of Training Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Temecula, CA, US

Salary Range: $215,000.00 To $230,000.00 Annually

Metreadelivers effects-as-a-service to national security partners across five domains and more than a dozen mission areas—including airborne ISR, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerial refueling, special mission aviation, aerial firefighting, and advanced simulation.

Wherever we operate, we build vertically integrated full stacks of capability—designing, building, and operating turnkey solutions that let customers scale capacity while benefiting from continuous cycles of innovation. With operators and engineers under one roof, we close the gap between lab and field—what we call connecting design with effect.

Metrea’s solutions are built for elegance: effective, efficient, and evolving. This approach enables our partners to do more with less and achieve outsized, asymmetric advantage against rapidly evolving threats.

Headquartered in Washington, DC, Metrea has facilities across the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, and beyond.

This role sits within Air Mobility Group (AIRMOB) and is responsible for developing and delivering Metrea’s aerial refueling (AAR) capabilities, ensuring the readiness and operational effectiveness of the tanker fleet. AIRMOB oversees fleet management, maintenance, and airworthiness, working to sustain and enhance refueling operations. It manages the integration of new processes and technologies, ensuring that tanker aircraft remain mission‑ready through effective logistics, maintenance oversight, and regulatory compliance. By coordinating across various teams, AIRMOB ensures the fleet meets both current and future operational needs, supporting a range of specialized air mobility missions.

In this role, you will serve as AIRMOB’s Head of Crew Training, equivalent to an FAA Chief Pilot, EASA Nominated Person for Crew Training, or CASA Head of Training and Checking. You will be successful if you can deliver highly trained, qualified, and competent crews who meet AIRMOB’s mission requirements. Your leadership will ensure compliance with global aviation standards, foster a culture of safety, and drive continuous improvement in training effectiveness.

• Ensure all flight crew members are properly trained, qualified, and prepared to perform their duties safely.
• Design and implement comprehensive training programs for pilots, navigators, and Air Refueling Operators, including initial, recurrent, and specialized training.
• Guarantee training programs comply with FAA, ICAO, and other applicable aviation regulations and standards.
• Monitor and evaluate training effectiveness through assessments, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Recruit, train, and mentor flight instructors, ensuring they remain current with best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Manage training resources such as simulators, training aircraft, and other instructional equipment.
• Embed SMS and risk management practices into all training programs to uphold the highest safety standards.
• Incorporate new technologies, methodologies, and industry advancements to enhance training delivery and outcomes.

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Education, Business Administration, or related field.
• Proven experience in aviation training coordination, compliance management, or a related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of aviation regulations and standards (FAA, ICAO, EASA, CASA).
• Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and training software.
• Extensive knowledge of aviation safety management policies and practices, particularly for KC‑135 and air‑to‑air refueling operations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for briefings, presentations, and customer engagement.
• Strong organizational, multitasking, and prioritization skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across diverse teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel).

• Advanced degree (MBA or Master’s in aviation, education, or technical discipline).
• Experience leading training programs in military or complex aviation environments.
• Demonstrated success in strategic thinking, team building, and conflict resolution.
• Familiarity with cutting‑edge training technologies and methodologies.
• High level of discretion, confidentiality, and professional integrity.

Valid Driver’s License.

Current US Passport.

Must hold, or previously held, an Instructor/Evaluator certification for KC‑135 Aircraft.

Valid Pilot License - ATP Multi-Engine Land with B‑707 Type Rating (Restricted ATP is permissible).

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Must be a U.S. citizen.

Active Secret clearance required at time of hire, and the ability to maintain it throughout employment.

Comprehensive medical plan options

HSA/FSA accounts

Dental and vision coverage

Fully paid parental leave for all new parents

Generous PTO

Life and disability insurance
Long-term and Short-term disability coverage

AD&D Coverage

Pet Insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Subsided gym membership / plans through Wellhub

Legal Entity is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

This is a full-time exempt position with typical working hours of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Hours and work shifts may change in accordance with department and business needs. Exempt Employees must have the ability to be on-call and available, as business needs require.