Director of Flight Operations Sought for ARM Aerial Facility

Published: 6 April 2020

Lead research flight operations in support of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) as director of flight operations for the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Aerial Facility. At Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Washington state, the facility operates both manned and unmanned aircraft configured as science platforms for sampling the Earth’s atmosphere around the globe. Directing flights and the aerial crew within PNNL’s Atmospheric Science and Global Change Division and directly supporting the DOE ARM user facility, you will play an essential role in managing campaigns that aim to broaden our knowledge and predictive understanding of dynamic earth systems so we can better prepare for—and adapt to—the rapid changes those systems are undergoing.

We are seeking an experienced pilot with expertise in flight operations, pilot training, and FAA standards and comprehensive mission planning. The director of flight operations acts as team lead and oversees an aerial research crew, maintenance, training, projects, and campaigns that are funded by DOE.

As a leader in aerial research operations, you’ll develop, steward, and manage project investments related to fundamental science mission objectives. Further, you’ll manage key relationships while organizing campaigns to conduct science in the field, working with atmospheric scientists, modelers, data analysts, and other experts who are part of international and multi-institutional research endeavors. Specific experience, certification, and required flight time are qualifications for consideration. The ability to demonstrate wise decision making and effective aviation mission planning is desired.

Learn more about the job, qualifications, and how to apply.