Become an FAA Aviation Safety Inspector: A Career in Aviation Leadership
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the cornerstone of safe, efficient flight in the United States. We are currently looking for an expert Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) to join our team in Spokane Valley, Washington. As a Principal Operations Inspector (POI), you will serve as the eyes and ears of the FAA, ensuring that operators meet the highest safety standards in the industry.
Job Responsibilities
As a POI, your duties are multifaceted:
- Act as the primary interface between the FAA and air operators.
- Monitor and enforce Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs).
- Conduct surveillance, investigations, and certification of airmen and organizations.
- Evaluate training programs, flight simulators, and manual revisions.
- Provide expert technical support for legal counsel and formal inquiries.
Requirements Comparison
| Requirement Type | Minimum Specification |
|---|---|
| Pilot Certificate | ATP or Commercial with Instrument Rating |
| Flight Instruction | Current CFI with Rotorcraft-Helicopter Instrument Rating |
| Experience | 1,500 total hours; 1,000 in Helicopters |
| Recent Flight Time | 100 hours in last 5 years |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a salary range of $126,432 to $164,366 per year. Employees also benefit from the robust Federal benefits package, which includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, and a generous retirement plan.
Application Tips
To succeed in the application process:
- Be specific: Detail your flight hours and relevant Part 135 experience.
- Conciseness: Keep your resume to exactly two pages.
- Documentation: Ensure your medical certificate and pilot credentials are current and legible.
Serving as an Aviation Safety Inspector is a high-responsibility role that ensures every helicopter in our skies operates safely. If you have the experience and dedication to aviation excellence, apply to join the FAA today.
Why This Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) (Principal Operations Inspector (Poi)) Job Matters
Take your aviation expertise to new heights with the FAA as a Principal Operations Inspector, where you will directly shape the safety and standards of rotorcraft-helicopter operations.
Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) (Principal Operations Inspector (Poi)) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking a highly skilled Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) to serve as a Principal Operations Inspector (POI) in Spokane Valley, Washington. In this critical role, you will act as the primary liaison between the FAA and aviation operators, ensuring that all helicopter programs adhere strictly to Federal Aviation Regulations. You will be responsible for surveillance, investigation, and certification activities, playing a vital role in maintaining the safety and efficiency of the national aerospace system.
Requirements for Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) (Principal Operations Inspector (Poi))
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must hold an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) OR Commercial Pilot Certificate (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) with Instrument rating.
- Must hold a current Flight Instructor Certificate (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) with Instrument Helicopter rating.
- Minimum of 1,500 total flight hours (at least 1,000 in helicopters).
- Minimum of 200 hours flight instruction in a helicopter.
- At least 100 flight hours in helicopters within the last five years.
- Possession of a valid second-class medical certificate.
- Valid state driver's license and English fluency.
Preferred Qualifications for Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) (Principal Operations Inspector (Poi))
- Demonstrated experience in surveillance, certification, and enforcement activities under FAR Part 135.
- Expertise in evaluating training programs, flight simulators, and check airman designations.
- Strong technical communication skills for legal depositions and congressional inquiries.
- Experience in complex aviation operations oversight comparable to an FAA grade 12/13 level.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and locality pay.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) (Principal Operations Inspector (Poi)) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) (Principal Operations Inspector (Poi)) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages.
- Gather required documentation, including your pilot certificates, medical certificate, and SF-50 (if applicable).
- Complete the online application and any required assessment questionnaires.
- Submit your application and all required documents by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists job titles, hours worked per week, and specific dates for all experience to verify eligibility.
- Do not provide narrative KSA responses; instead, embed your accomplishments within your work history sections.
- Review your application for completeness; incomplete submissions will not be considered.
- Save and resubmit your application if you make any changes after the initial submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a Principal Operations Inspector?
A POI serves as the main FAA point of contact for assigned air operators, responsible for ensuring all aspects of their operations, manuals, and training comply with Federal Aviation Regulations.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, this position involves travel as part of inspections and surveillance duties.
Can education substitute for flight experience?
No, education cannot be substituted for the specific aeronautical experience required for this safety-critical role.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
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