Launch Your Career as an International Aviation Safety Inspector with the FAA
Are you an experienced pilot looking to shift your focus from the cockpit to the regulatory side of aviation? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking highly qualified candidates to join the Flight Standards team as an International Principal Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier - Flight Oversight). This is a premier opportunity to influence global aviation safety and serve as the primary link between the FAA and international air operators.
About the FAA
At the Federal Aviation Administration, we do more than manage airspace; we shape the future of transportation. From advancing autonomous vehicles to supporting eco-friendly electric aircraft, our agency is at the forefront of aerospace innovation. With a diverse team of over 44,000 professionals, the FAA offers a dynamic environment where your specialized experience translates into real-world safety impact.
Job Responsibilities
As an International Principal Aviation Safety Inspector, you will perform high-level duties focused on regulatory compliance and oversight. Your core responsibilities include:
- Regulatory Liaison: Functioning as the primary interface between the FAA and foreign air carriers, organizations, and airmen.
- Program Oversight: Independently designing and carrying out complex oversight programs to ensure entities meet 14 CFR regulations.
- Technical Analysis: Evaluating operational capabilities, limitations, and maintenance programs for advanced multi-engine turbojet fleets.
- Policy Support: Providing technical guidance to other inspectors on complex aviation policy interpretations.
Complexity of Work
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Environment | Regulatory, oversight-focused |
| Scope | International and national air carriers |
| Autonomy | High; requires independent judgment |
| Stakeholders | Key aviation officials and manufacturers |
Requirements
This position requires a deep foundation in aviation. Successful candidates must possess:
- A valid Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.
- A minimum of 1,500 total flight hours.
- At least one year of experience flying multi-engine aircraft over 12,500 lbs.
- A strong history of compliance, with no more than two pilot-error accidents in the last five years.
- The ability to pass a rigorous Tier 3 (T3) background investigation.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $107,446 to $139,684 annually. Beyond competitive pay, the FAA provides a robust benefits package, including federal health, life insurance, and a comprehensive retirement plan.
How to Apply
- Resume Prep: Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and clearly outlines your job title, series, grade, and hours per week.
- Submission: All applications must be completed online via the official portal.
- Certification: Be ready to upload copies of your pilot certificates and other required credentials.
If you have the experience and the dedication to ensure the highest standards of safety in international aviation, the FAA wants to hear from you. This role offers the perfect platform to utilize your pilot background to shape the future of global aviation. Apply today and join the team that keeps the skies safe.
Why This Aviation Safety Inspector (Ac-Flight Oversight) Job Matters
Take your aviation career to new heights by serving as a primary link between the FAA and global air operators in this high-impact oversight role.
Aviation Safety Inspector (Ac-Flight Oversight) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking experienced aviation professionals for the role of International Principal Aviation Safety Inspector (Air Carrier - Flight Oversight). In this critical position, you will act as a key liaison between the FAA and foreign air operators, ensuring that complex flight operations adhere to the highest international and federal safety standards. You will independently manage oversight programs, provide technical guidance, and analyze the operational capabilities of sophisticated, modern aircraft fleets.
Requirements for Aviation Safety Inspector (Ac-Flight Oversight)
- U.S. citizenship is required.
- Must possess a valid Airline Transport Pilot Certificate.
- Minimum of 1,500 total flight hours.
- At least one year of pilot experience in multi-engine aircraft exceeding 12,500 lbs MGTOW.
- Three years of experience within an air carrier, commercial operator, or air agency environment.
- No more than two pilot-error flying accidents in the last five years.
- No more than two incidents involving FAA regulation violations in the last five years.
- Valid state driver's license and fluency in English.
- Completion and favorable adjudication of a Tier 3 (T3) background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Aviation Safety Inspector (Ac-Flight Oversight)
- Demonstrated experience equivalent to the FV-I/FG-13 level in specialized certification, surveillance, or compliance roles.
- Expertise in analyzing flight operations for advanced multi-engine turbojet aircraft.
- Proven ability to manage and provide oversight for large-scale, complex foreign air operator fleets.
- Exceptional technical judgment and the ability to work independently under broad policy directives.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Generous retirement plans including FERS and TSP
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression
- ✓Flexible work arrangements where eligible
💡 How to Apply Aviation Safety Inspector (Ac-Flight Oversight) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Aviation Safety Inspector (Ac-Flight Oversight) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages.
- Gather necessary documentation, including your pilot certificate and SF-50 (for current FAA employees).
- Submit your application through the official FAA portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your work history, including hours worked per week and specific dates.
- Avoid generic summaries; tie your professional experience directly to the specific duties and qualifications listed.
- FAA employees must provide an SF-50 with relevant blocks clearly visible to verify tenure and series.
- Double-check your application for completeness, as omissions can result in disqualification.
- If you make changes to your application, you must re-submit it to ensure the new version is evaluated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to submit a KSA narrative for this position?
No. The FAA has eliminated the use of KSA narratives. Instead, provide specific examples in your resume that demonstrate how you meet the requirements.
Can I substitute education for experience?
No, education is not qualifying for this specific grade level.
Are there medical requirements for this role?
Yes, inspectors must have adequate vision and hearing to perform job duties safely, including the ability to occupy an aircraft jumpseat.