Principal PilotSierra Nevada Corporation
Aircraft: Multi-engine turboprop/jet aircraft (GTOW 12,500+)Location: Fort Bliss, TXNon-type rated
Total Time5,000 hrs
PIC Time1,500 hrs
About This Role
Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) seeks an experienced Principal Pilot to lead complex, high-stakes defense and government missions based at Fort Bliss, TX. As a trusted aerospace and national security contractor, SNC provides cutting-edge command and control, communications, and ISR solutions for the Department of Defense and Homeland Security. Candidates require a minimum of 5,000 total flight hours with 1,500 hours PIC on multi-engine turboprop or jet aircraft (GTOW 12,500+), a Commercial Pilot License with instrument and multi-engine ratings, and an active Top Secret/SCI security clearance. This role offers competitive compensation with performance incentive pay, comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, 401(k) with 150% match, tuition reimbursement, and significant leadership opportunities mentoring senior pilots while driving innovation in defense aviation operations.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Lead and manage execution of high-stakes and complex missions
- Develop and implement strategic operational plans to support organizational objectives
- Provide expert piloting skills for the most challenging and critical missions
- Mentor and guide senior and junior pilots, fostering continuous improvement culture
- Oversee safety, regulatory compliance, and risk management for all missions
- Serve as key advisor to leadership on aviation and operational matters
- Lead analysis and review of mission outcomes to drive improvements
- Collaborate with engineering and technical teams to enhance aircraft performance and safety
- Represent the organization in high-level meetings and briefings
- Drive innovation and excellence in flight operations and mission execution
What We Offer
Annual incentive pay based on performanceMedical, dental, and vision insurance plans401(k) with 150% match up to 6%Life insurance3 weeks paid time offTuition reimbursementGenerous benefit package
Requirements
- Minimum 8+ years of professional aviation experience
- Minimum 5,000 hours total fixed-wing flight time
- Valid Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with instrument and multi-engine ratings
- Minimum 1,500 hours PIC in multi-engine turboprop or jet aircraft (GTOW 12,500+)
- FAA-issued Second Class Medical Certificate
- Active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance (required)
- U.S. Citizenship status (required for security clearance)
- Army Instructor Pilot certification
- Ability to pass FAA/Military Pilot Background Check
- Mandatory drug and alcohol screening clearance
- Proven leadership experience in high-stakes operational environments
- In-depth knowledge of strategic planning and aviation management
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly
- Ability to remain seated and operate flight controls for extended periods
- Fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination
- Ability to hear and respond to audio cues in loud environments
- Frequent travel required; availability for on-call missions
- Ability to work in potentially hazardous or high-stress environments
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
About Sierra Nevada Corporation
Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) is a global leader in aerospace and national security, founded in 1963. As a privately owned mid-tier aerospace and defense contractor, SNC provides innovative command and control, communications, integrated ISR, force protection and security solutions for the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, commercial and international customers.