Job Title: Flight Operations Manager
Location: Coppell Texas with travel as needed
Company: Sky Elements
Job Summary:
Join our dynamic team at Sky Elements as a Flight Operations Manager, where you will oversee and ensure the highest standards of regulatory compliance and operational efficiency within our flight operations department. This role requires exceptional organizational and communication skills to manage complex scheduling, documentation, and compliance tasks while coordinating seamless flight operations that meet both company and regulatory standards. Additionally, the ability to understand and execute operational requirements based on FAA policies is essential.
Key Responsibilities:
FAA Liaison and Airspace Coordination Serve as the primary administrative point of contact with the FAA, handling applications for airspace authorizations, operational waivers, and NOTAM filings while coordinating with local Flight Standards District Offices (FSDOs). Provide input on site plans and pyrotechnic AHJ requirements based on system knowledge and FAA policies.
Training and Development
Primary creator and coordinator of all training systems for all Pilots and Co-Pilots. Training will include new hire, continuing education, and development. Training classes should be audited to ensure proper content and be modified as technology and policies change. Field audits should be conducted to determine opportunities for training modification or continuing education needs. Creation of appropriate support staff training to support the flight operations team will also be in scope.
Regulatory Compliance and Documentation Maintain and update all required documentation to ensure compliance with FAA regulations. This includes managing flight records, pilot training logs, certifications, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Systems Expertise Develop a comprehensive understanding of flight operations, drone systems, internal technology, and FAA policies. Use this knowledge to develop and maintain training curriculum, modify materials as systems or regulations change, and provide input on future system enhancements. This role will also contribute to equipment selection, support, upkeep, and iteration cycles.
Crew Scheduling and Contractor Coordination Oversee the scheduling and onboarding of pilots and co-pilots for training and operational flights. Communicate clearly with crew members and contractors to ensure alignment with operational needs. Verify contractor invoices and services to ensure compliance with contract terms.
Post-Show Review and Policy Adherence In coordination with the Chief Pilot, review post-show reports and flight logs to ensure policy adherence.
Analyze video footage to assess compliance with safety and operational guidelines and provide clear, actionable feedback for continuous improvement.
Qualifications:
- Strong organizational and administrative skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and documentation efficiently
- Exceptional attention to detail
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- A collaborative team player who proactively initiates communication and solves problems
- Experience in aviation operations management or a related field is a plus
- Working knowledge of FAA regulations is a plus
- Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams, external partners, and regulatory agencies
- Understanding that this role is not a traditional 9-to-5, Monday-through-Friday position
- High technical understanding of complex systems
Skills and Competencies:
- Strong attention to detail
- Strong cross-functional communication skills
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in engineering project management, logistics, entertainment operations, or a related field
- Aviation or FAA experience is a bonus
- Proven track record of managing multiple projects at once
- Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required; relevant experience is highly valued
- Proven ability to develop and maintain organized documentation and operational processes
- Experience with crew scheduling, contractor coordination, and regulatory documentation management
Work Environment
This role operates in a combination of in office, remote, and field environments. Field work may include outdoor job sites and live event locations. The position may require exposure to varying weather conditions, noise levels, and active flight operations environments.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Sky Elements is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Paid training
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
