What are the responsibilities and job description for the Aviation Leadership Program Director position at Saint Francis University?
Aviation Leadership Program Director
Search Status: Application material received by July 24, 2026 will receive primary consideration.
Saint Francis University invites applications for a 12-month full time position as the Aviation Leadership Program Director in the new University-based pilot training program offered in partnership with Nulton Flight Academy at the John Murtha Johnstown-Cambria County Airport (KJST). This program builds on the University’s nearly decade-long partnership with the Nulton Flight Academy as well as our recently established SFU Aviation Education Center at KJST which presently houses our 14 CFR 147-certified Aviation Maintenance Technical School. The director will develop and manage the new Aviation Leadership program including all related areas managing budget, handling curriculum oversight, aiding recruitment tasks, advising students, connecting with flight schools, managing the Nulton Flight Academy partnership, teaching theory courses and hiring and supervising adjuncts as needed.
The candidate should meet the minimum requirements to be a chief instructor at a Part 141 flight school as described under 14 CFR 143.35 (a), (d), and (e). As such, the candidate should hold current commercial pilot and flight instructor certificates with instrument ratings. Minimum flight experience of 2000 hours as a pilot in command which includes at least 100 hours of flight time in actual or simulated instrument conditions. Minimum flight training experience of either 3 years and at least 1000 flight hours, or a minimum of 1500 hours of total instructional flight training experience. This flight training experience is to include minimum experience as an instrument flight instructor of either 2 years and a total of 250 flights hours or a total of 400 flight hours. Minimum of 1 year experience as a ground school instructor at a certified pilot school. Ability to pass the FAA knowledge and practical exams for chief instructors as described in 14 CRF 141.35 (a)(3,4). A bachelor’s degree is strongly preferred. Excellent leadership, written and oral communication skills with a zeal for aviation and collegiate life.
Eligibility requirement: Candidates must have current authorization to work in the United States. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship or assist with work authorization.
Complete an online application at https://www.francis.edu/employment , then submit letter of application, resume, and names, addresses and phone numbers of three references to: positions@francis.edu
Saint Francis University is an equal opportunity employer.
The University is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-472-3264 or positions@francis.edu.
Pay: $48,950.00 - $99,650.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education:
- Bachelor's (Preferred)
Experience:
- flight training : 3 years (Preferred)
- Ground school instructor: 1 year (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- commercial pilot and flight instructor w/ instrument ratings (Preferred)
- FAA chief instructor certification (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $48,950 - $99,650