Mente Group is excited to announce the launch of a brand-new Flight Department, based in the Southern Bay Area, CA, and operating a large-cabin Gulfstream (G700). We're seeking an experienced Director of Aviation (Flying) to lead this department from the ground up — building the team, setting the standard, occasionally flying as an active member of the flight crew, and overseeing every aspect of a world-class private flight operation.
If you're driven by a passion for aviation and a dedication to client service, Mente offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team from the ground up. We're seeking a talented individual eager to contribute to our mission and grow with us.
Ready to make your mark in private aviation? Apply today.
THE ROLE:
The Director of Aviation will both lead the Flight Department and serve as a line pilot on the G700, splitting time between departmental oversight and active flight duties. This role will lead a team of pilots, a cabin attendant, and a maintenance manager, and ensure a seamless, safe, and discreet travel experience for the client.
Core responsibilities include:
- Serving as Captain (PIC) on the assigned G700, flying scheduled trips as part of the regular crew rotation.
- Overseeing all flight operations for the assigned Gulfstream G700, from scheduling through completion of each trip.
- Hiring, training, and supervising pilots, cabin crew, and maintenance staff to Mente standards.
- Ensuring full FAA Part 91 compliance across all flight operations.
- Overseeing aircraft maintenance, inspections, and regulatory adherence in coordination with the Maintenance Manager.
- Developing and managing the flight department's operational budget, controlling costs, and driving efficiency.
- Serving as the primary point of contact between the aircraft owner, the client's team, and regulatory bodies — ensuring operations run safely, efficiently, and with complete discretion.
QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:
- Pilot with extensive large-cabin jet experience; prior experience as a Chief Pilot, Aviation Manager, or Director of Flight Operations who also flew as line crew is ideal.
- FAA ATP certification; Gulfstream G700 type rating (or the ability to obtain one) strongly preferred. G650 or G500/G600 acceptable.
- Recent PIC experience in large-cabin, long-range aircraft.
- Strong financial and business acumen, with experience managing multi-million-dollar aircraft budgets and vendor contracts.
- Deep knowledge of FAA Part 91 regulations and aviation safety standards.
- Proven crew leadership — experience hiring, training, and managing flight and support teams to a high standard of safety and service.
- Discretion and polish in managing a private client's travel arrangements with the highest level of professionalism.
- A degree in aviation management, business administration, or aeronautical engineering is a plus, though not required.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be accessible by phone or email 24/7 except when on scheduled time off.
- Must be willing to work nights, weekends, holidays as needed.
- Work hours can extend beyond normal office hours.
- Domestic and international travel may be required.
- Ability to lift items weighing up to 40lbs from floor to shoulder level.
- Physical ability to perform all required job functions must not be hindered.
- Must be able to work alone with minimal supervision.