Become a Principal Operations Inspector with the FAA
Are you looking to pivot your extensive flying career into a high-impact regulatory and leadership role? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently accepting applications for an Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations) based in Enfield, Connecticut. This is an exceptional opportunity for experienced pilots to influence the safety culture and operational standards of the general aviation industry.
Job Responsibilities
As a Principal Operations Inspector (POI), you will serve as a technical expert for general aviation organizations. Your responsibilities will include:
- Designing and implementing flight operations programs.
- Conducting surveillance and certification investigations.
- Serving as an advisor to management on high-priority aviation matters.
- Developing innovative policies for complex aircraft systems.
- Maintaining currency requirements via participation in the FAA flight program.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Requirement Type | Specification |
|---|---|
| Flight Time | Minimum 1,500 total hours |
| Recent Experience | 100 hours in the last 3 years |
| Certification | Commercial Pilot / ATP with Instrument Rating |
| Medical | Valid 2nd-Class FAA Medical |
Requirements
Candidates must possess extensive flight experience and meet rigorous professional standards. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, pass strict medical examinations, and have a clean record regarding federal aviation violations and pilot-error accidents.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $141,915 to $184,495 per year. Employees also receive comprehensive federal benefits, including robust health insurance, a generous retirement pension, and significant leave accrual.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages. Be specific with your work history, noting hours worked and detailed duties that mirror the job announcement. If you are a current federal employee, ensure your SF-50 is attached.
This role is ideal for seasoned aviators looking to retire from the cockpit while remaining deeply involved in the future of flight safety. Apply via USAJOBS by August 12, 2026.
Why This Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations (Poi)) Job Matters
Elevate aviation safety standards as a Principal Operations Inspector with the FAA in Enfield, Connecticut.
Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations (Poi)) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking an experienced Aviation Safety Inspector (Operations) to serve in a pivotal role within the Bradley Flight Standards District Office. This position offers the opportunity to influence the safety and operational standards of the general aviation industry. You will function as a Principal Operations Inspector (POI), providing expert guidance and oversight to ensure compliance with federal aviation regulations. This role involves developing policies, evaluating complex flight operations programs, and advising industry leadership on high-level safety initiatives.
Requirements for Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations (Poi))
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Must have a valid, unexpired Flight Instructor Certificate with single and multi-engine airplane and instrument airplane ratings.
- Minimum of 200 hours of flight instruction experience.
- Total flight time of at least 1,500 hours.
- Minimum of 100 flight hours within the last three years.
- Possession of a Commercial Pilot Certificate with instrument rating or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.
- Valid second-class FAA medical certificate.
- No more than two pilot-error accidents in the last five years.
- Clearance from FAA regulation violations (no more than two in the last five years).
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening and ongoing random testing.
Preferred Qualifications for Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations (Poi))
- Demonstrated experience in technical functions related to FAR Part 135 air carrier certification and surveillance.
- Expertise in advanced multi-engine turbojet aircraft operations.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with high-level industry stakeholders and government agencies.
- Ability to work independently with broad policy guidelines to solve unique technical problems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Generous retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Life insurance and flexible spending accounts.
💡 How to Apply Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations (Poi)) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations (Poi)) Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS website.
- Submit your application online before the closing date of August 12, 2026.
- Ensure all work history entries clearly state job titles, hours worked per week, and dates.
- Upload required documentation, such as professional certificates and SF-50 forms for current federal employees.
- Complete any required online assessments triggered by the application process.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to directly address the specialized experience requirements.
- Use concrete examples from your professional history to demonstrate your qualifications for each competency.
- Double-check your application for clarity and completeness before submitting, as errors may disqualify your candidacy.
- If you make changes to your application, you must re-submit it for the updates to count.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the required flight experience?
No. Education is not qualifying for this position and cannot be substituted for the specific flight and professional experience requirements.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy and manager approval.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA is the largest transportation agency in the U.S. government, managing over 44,000 employees committed to providing the safest and most efficient aerospace system in the world. From overseeing autonomous vehicle research to ensuring commercial compliance, the FAA is at the forefront of aviation technology.