Lead Tow Pilot

Seasonal (Late-May through October), Full-Time (40 hrs/wk/flexible)

Description:

The Lead Tow Pilot (LTP) is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of Sugarbush Soaring’s towplanes, as well as overseeing their maintenance. The LTP works closely with the Director of Maintenance to ensure that all FAA inspections, certifications, and licensing requirements for the towplanes are met. The LTP reports to the Director of Operations (DO) and coordinates with towpilots to establish and maintain standardized operating procedures that guarantee safe, efficient, and professional tow operations for both club and visiting pilots.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Maintain currency, qualifications, and proficiency in operating SSA towplanes, adhering to the assigned flight schedule.
  • Oversee and ensure compliance with maintenance requirements, including annual and 100-hour inspections, Airworthiness Directives (ADs), preventive maintenance, airframe repairs, and engine overhauls.
  • Provide the office staff with necessary aircraft flight data, including times and the number of tows, for internal record-keeping.
  • Ensure all towplanes are kept in a serviceable and airworthy condition.
  • Maintain cleanliness of towplanes.
  • Monitor aircraft squawks and coordinate regular maintenance and repairs with the Director of Maintenance and Director of Operations.
  • Manage the inventory of spare parts, particularly consumables such as air filters, hydraulic fluid, engine oil, oil filters, tires, brake pads, batteries, skids, tow rings, and weak links, and reorder as needed.
  • Perform engine oil changes and oil filter replacements as recommended by the engine manufacturer and FAA regulations.
  • Act as the liaison with aircraft mechanics (IA and A&P) to schedule inspections and coordinate timely repairs, minimizing aircraft downtime.
  • Collaborate with the DO to ensure compliance with FAA and SSA towpilot training and currency requirements.
  • Assist with facilities and grounds upkeep, and perform other duties as assigned by the Airport Manager (AM).
  • As with all SSA staff, represent the sport, the SSA, the airport, and oneself as a friendly, highly qualified, and competent professional.

Ideally, the individual in this role should be a Commercial Pilot with qualifications in both gliders and airplanes, and hold Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) credentials for both power and glider operations. If qualified, this individual may also be scheduled as a Commercial Ride Pilot and Glider Instructor.  The LTP is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week position with a flexible schedule that may include weekends.   Pay commesurate with experience and housing accommodations available based on candidate need.