The Airborne Systems Business Area (ASBA) within the Leidos Defense Sector has an opening for a Sr. Director of Aviation Operations. Work location for this position will be based in Manassas, VA.

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Airborne Systems Business Area (ASBA) SVP, the Sr. Director of Aviation Operations (DAO) is responsible for oversight of aircraft integration activities, FAA Part 145 and DCMA 8210.1C maintenance operations, supply chain logistics, and ensuring compliance with flight and ground operational procedures. The DAO is also accountable for the safety and success of overall operation of the ASBA worldwide flight operations, meeting program safety goals, and successful delivery on contractual obligations will lead a team of five direct reports (5): Chief Pilot, Director of Maintenance, Chief of Aviation Safety, GM of Part 145 and Manager of Logistics.

Primary Responsibilities

Scope of responsibility includes leadership and oversight of complex mission equipment payloads on fixed wing aircraft variants.

Instantiation of industry standard aeronautical design modification processes and quality control measures.

Management of Part 145 Repair Station including sustainment of the certificate.

Management and sustainment of a DCMA 8210.1C approved flight and ground operation.

Support of the Quality Management System to include the AS9100 registration.

Establishing and fostering a strong safety culture.

Management of the Leidos Manassas facility hangars and storage space; organizing, staffing and directing flight operations, cabin safety, crew scheduling and training programs.

Controlling operations and operational standards of all aircraft operated.

Actively supporting the IS-BAO approved Safety Management System.

Validating and addressing safety-risk management deficiencies in an appropriate and timely manner.

Developing and maintaining the IS-BAO approved Flight Operations & SMS Manual.

Liaising with the regulatory authority on all matters concerning flight operations and with any external agencies which may affect aircraft operations.

Ensuring that flight operations and aircraft maintenance activities are conducted in compliance with all applicable safety regulations, national and international regulations, standards and company operating policies.

Ensuring that crew scheduling complies with flight and duty time limitations and are kept informed of any changes to the regulations and operating standards.

Receiving and taking action with respect to any aeronautical information affecting the safety of flight; disseminating aircraft safety information, both internal and external.

Ensuring compliance with all national and local environmental laws and requirements addressed Chapter 11.

Ensuring that flight crew qualifications are current, maintaining a current operations library; and overseeing the welfare of flight operation personnel.

Developing, engaging and retaining a high-performing team.

Collaborating across organizations for engineering expertise.

Oversight of internal, research and development projects.

In addition, the DAO must be able to develop, monitor, forecast, and meet budget and schedule for aircraft projects and supporting functions.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, plus a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience (service and aviation industry experience may be considered in lieu of degree); or Master's degree and 10 years' experience.

A minimum of eight (8) years’ experience in project management and engineering.

Minimum of six (6) years of team leadership experience, and a demonstrated record of leading and managing an organization.

Must possess an active DoD Top Secret security clearance.

Experience managing an aviation organization including aircraft modification and facilities management as well as a deep understanding of and background in Airborne ISR, Aviation and related technology.

Demonstrated and consistent success in achieving project budget and schedule plans.

Ability to devise and present technical solutions to complex problems.

Program management skills, experience supporting a variety of customers, and managing a diverse technical team.

Ability to manage multiple complex demands concurrently.

Interdisciplinary leadership skills with a proven track record of managing and mentoring staff in a successful organization.

Ability to gain internal consensus support; operate independently without supervision or feedback; conceive new and innovative ideas and solutions; predict potential outcomes, and determine which alternative course of action to follow.

Ability to establish positive, constructive relationships with technical and functional staff, managers, and peers within the Business Area, Sector, and across Leidos organizations.

Experience in identifying potential business partners, developing teaming agreements and working with other team members to develop integrated solutions.

Outstanding written and verbal communication skills are essential and should be able to adapt communication style to suit different audiences.

Required Technical Skills:

Eight (8) years of experience managing one or more program(s) of high complexity modifying aircraft and integrating mission equipment payloads to include RF sensors, radar, electro-optics and large-scale antennas. 

Previous experience in a formally identified safety or quality management role.

Working knowledge of FAA Part 145 and DCMA 8210.1C required.

Strong understanding and working knowledge of aviation quality and safety standards.

Must have direct experience working in a classified environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Previous experience as Director of Maintenance or Government Flight Representative.

Proven success transitioning airborne technology programs to operational use.

Experience taking prototype hardware and software to product.

Familiarity with financial management, program management, and contracting approaches and processes.

Experience as FAA certified pilot or maintenance A&P/IA.

Original Posting Date:2025-02-13

While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $148,850.00 - $269,075.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.