Director, Sikorsky Flight Operations/ Chief Pilot

Company: Lockheed Martin
Location: Jupiter
Posted on: May 24, 2025

Job Description:

Description:WHAT WE'RE DOING

At Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, we're pioneering the future of vertical lift aviation. From next-generation military rotorcraft to commercial aircraft, we build helicopters that push boundaries, save lives, and deliver capabilities that matter. Every mission we support, every aircraft we build, and every test flight we complete brings us closer to our vision: keeping people safe and connected across the globe.

THE WORK

We are seeking a Director of Flight Operations / Chief Pilot to lead and oversee all flight operations across the Sikorsky line of business. Reporting directly to the Vice President, Engineering and Technology, this high-impact leadership role is responsible for the safety, execution, and strategic direction of Sikorsky's flight test and operations enterprise.

As the senior-most flight operations authority, you will:

Oversee flight operations across all Sikorsky and customer sites worldwide.

Lead the planning and execution of engineering flight tests, production acceptance flights, and customer demonstration flights.

Manage the test aircraft fleet and personnel, ensuring operational readiness and safety.

Actively fly as a test pilot, supporting flight test objectives.

Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and flight safety standards.

Provide technical expertise and leadership in flight testing and aircraft development.

Oversee functions including airfield management, air traffic control, comms maintenance, and aviation life support.

Approve cockpit configurations and flight operations support strategies.

Mentor and manage a diverse team of test pilots, flight test engineers, and operational support staff.

Serve as a key partner in the aircraft certification process and act as a liaison with engineering, training, customer support, business development, and contracts.

Represent Sikorsky in government and industry forums on rotorcraft policy and safety.

WHO WE ARE

Sikorsky has been at the forefront of rotorcraft innovation for over 100 years. We are home to iconic aircraft like the BLACK HAWK, SEAHAWK, and CH-53K King Stallion, serving military and commercial customers around the world. As a leader in vertical lift, our teams are relentless in advancing aviation safety, capability, and sustainability.

WHO YOU ARE

You are a seasoned aviation leader and test pilot with deep experience managing high-risk flight operations in a complex, highly regulated environment. You possess:

Proven leadership in managing flight test programs and operational teams.

Strong knowledge of FAA and military regulations, and a commitment to aviation safety.

Extensive experience flying and testing rotary-wing aircraft.

A collaborative and strategic mindset, capable of guiding technical teams and engaging with senior leadership.

A deep commitment to mentoring talent, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of vertical flight.

WHY JOIN US

As the Director of Flight Operations, you won't just manage operations-you'll help shape the next generation of rotorcraft and influence the future of aviation safety and technology. You'll work alongside some of the brightest minds in aerospace and play a key role in delivering cutting-edge aircraft to customers worldwide. This is more than a job-it's a mission.
Basic Qualifications:
--- Extensive experience in helicopter flight operations and flight testing; requires a minimum of 3,500 flight hours.
--- FAA Commercial Pilot with an ATP certificate (Rotary Wing).
--- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college in engineering/STEM, or equivalent experience/combined education.
--- Familiarity with military, FAA, and international civil authorities' regulations.
--- Proficiency in flight test procedures, data acquisition, and analysis.
--- Strong leadership experience and interpersonal skills to manage and motivate a team.
--- Strong presentation skills, especially at the senior leadership level.
Travel Required: 15-20%
Desired Skills:
--- Previous pilot qualifications in Sikorsky products
--- Graduate of an accredited/recognized Engineering Test Pilot school
--- Detailed and diverse technical systems knowledge of Sikorsky products obtained through operations experience, production test experience, or engineering/developmental test experience
--- Experience as a flight instructor/FAA Certified Flight Instructor designation
--- Master's degree from an accredited college in engineering/STEM, or equivalent experience/combined education.
--- Experience in EVTOL and/or autonomy operations and platforms
--- A current U.S. government Secret security clearance required
--- Qualification as a FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER)
Security Clearance Statement: This position requires a government security clearance, you must be a US Citizen for consideration.
Clearance Level: Secret
Other Important Information You Should Know
Expression of Interest: By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Ability to Work Remotely: Onsite Full-time: The work associated with this position will be performed onsite at a designated Lockheed Martin facility.
Work Schedules: Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
Schedule for this Position: 4x10 hour day, 3 days off per week
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work.

With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.

If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you're invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on , and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.
Experience Level: Experienced Professional
Business Unit: RMS
Relocation Available: Possible
Career Area: Management
Type: Full-Time
Shift: First
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Keywords: Lockheed Martin, Miami Gardens , Director, Sikorsky Flight Operations/ Chief Pilot, Executive , Jupiter, Florida