Become a Principal Operations Inspector with the Federal Aviation Administration
Are you an experienced pilot looking to shift your focus from the cockpit to the future of aviation safety? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking a highly qualified Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations) to join the Atlanta Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). This is a career-defining role for professionals dedicated to maintaining the world’s safest aerospace system.
Job Responsibilities
As a Principal Operations Inspector (POI), you will:
- Act as the primary interface between the FAA and assigned air operators.
- Evaluate and oversee complex aviation flight programs.
- Conduct surveillance, certification, and investigation activities.
- Advise industry leaders on safety procedures and operational capabilities.
- Serve as a subject matter expert on advanced multi-engine turbojet operations.
Comparison of Responsibilities
| Feature | FG-13 Level Inspector | FG-14 Level (This Role) |
|---|---|---|
| Complexity | Moderate | High/Unusual Complexity |
| Oversight Scope | Partial/Routine | Comprehensive/Major Authority |
| Decision Making | Directed by Seniors | Independent/Expert Authority |
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate significant aviation experience. Key requirements include:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Valid Flight Instructor Certificate with single and multi-engine ratings.
- 1,500 total flight hours, with 100 hours in the last 3 years.
- Valid second-class FAA medical certificate.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the FG-13 grade.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $133,007 to $172,915 per year. Beyond the salary, the FAA provides a robust federal benefits package including health insurance, retirement options, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
Success in your application depends on detail and adherence to formatting. Keep your resume to exactly two pages and ensure your work history explicitly matches the job requirements. Remember to upload all certificates, ratings, and your most recent SF-50 if applicable.
This role offers a unique opportunity to shape aviation safety standards in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenging new chapter, apply through the official FAA portal before the September deadline.
Why This Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations) Job Matters
Elevate your career as a Principal Operations Inspector with the FAA in Atlanta—lead safety standards for the future of aviation.
Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking an experienced Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations) to join the Atlanta FSDO team. In this high-impact role, you will serve as a Principal Operations Inspector (POI), acting as the primary liaison between the FAA and aviation organizations. You will be responsible for ensuring rigorous compliance with Title 14 CFR, overseeing complex flight operations, and maintaining the highest safety standards in the industry. This position is ideal for a seasoned aviation expert ready to influence safety policy and drive operational excellence at a national level.
Requirements for Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Possession of a valid, unexpired Flight Instructor Certificate (single/multi-engine and instrument ratings).
- Minimum of 200 hours of documented flight instruction.
- Possession of an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate or Commercial Pilot Certificate with instrument rating.
- Minimum of 1,500 total flight hours.
- Minimum of 100 flight hours within the last 3 years.
- Possession of single and multi-engine land airplane ratings.
- Valid second-class FAA medical certificate.
- Not more than two separate incidents involving Federal Aviation regulation violations in the last 5 years.
- Not more than two flying accidents in the last 5 years involving pilot error.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the FV-I or FG/GS-13 level.
Preferred Qualifications for Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations)
- Extensive experience in the certification, surveillance, and enforcement of aviation safety regulations.
- Demonstrated ability to lead complex oversight programs for major aviation organizations.
- Expertise in advanced multi-engine turbojet operations.
- History of successful interaction with air carriers and aviation designees.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Potential for telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Aviation Safety Inspector (General Aviation - Operations) Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account if you do not have one.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Gather your SF-50 (for current/former federal employees), flight certificates, and rating copies.
- Complete the online application through the FAA portal.
- Ensure all work history entries clearly state the title, series, grade, and hours worked per week.
- Submit your application and all required documentation by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Resumes must not exceed two pages; prioritize your most relevant experience.
- Clearly link your work history to the specialized experience requirements mentioned in the announcement.
- Double-check that your certificates and ratings are legible before uploading.
- Resubmit your application if you make any changes after your initial submission.
- Do not provide narrative KSA responses; instead, integrate specific examples directly into your work history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Principal Operations Inspector?
The POI serves as the main FAA representative for assigned air carriers and aviation operators, ensuring compliance with 14 CFR and providing safety oversight.
Can I use education to substitute for the required experience?
No, for this specific grade level, professional experience cannot be substituted with education.
Do I need to submit KSA narrative responses?
No, the FAA has moved away from KSA narratives. Please weave your KSA-related experiences directly into your resume work history.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA is more than just a regulatory body; it is an innovator and a leader in global aerospace. With a diverse workforce of over 44,000 employees, the agency handles everything from autonomous vehicle research to long-endurance solar aircraft. By joining the FAA, you contribute to a mission that impacts millions of lives daily.