Head of Flight Operations

About the Royal Flying Doctor Service South Australia / Northern Territory (RFDS SA/NT)

RFDS SA/NT is a trusted leader in providing aeromedical and primary health care services to people in remote, rural and regional locations across South Australia and the Northern Territory. Its strategic direction places patients and communities at the heart of everything it does, supporting healthier and happier Australians no matter where they live. Values of Care, Integrity, Collaboration and Innovation guide how the organisation works, ensuring the highest standard of service and continuous improvement in outcomes for the communities it serves.

• Join Australia's most reputable charity
• Full-time position located in Adelaide
• Attractive remuneration & salary packaging benefits

About This Opportunity

Reporting to the Executive General Manager Aviation, the Head of Flight Operations is a critical leadership role responsible for the safety, compliance and operational performance of RFDS SA/NT Flight Operations. This position provides strategic leadership across the aviation function while ensuring compliance with CASA regulations and RFDS operational standards.

You Will

• Lead and oversee all flight operations activities across South Australia and the Northern Territory
• Maintain operational safety and regulatory compliance in accordance with CASA requirements and internal procedures
• Provide leadership and support to flight operations personnel, including pilot workforce planning, recruitment, training and performance management
• Work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the continued delivery of safe and effective aeromedical services
• Participate in line flying duties to maintain operational currency and support aviation operations when required

About You

You are an experienced aviation leader with a strong commitment to safety, operational excellence and people leadership, who thrives in complex operational environments.

You will bring:

• Extensive experience in senior aviation management, with demonstrated leadership, coaching and staff performance management capabilities
• Strong knowledge and practical experience in aviation safety, quality and fatigue management systems
• Highly developed communication, negotiation, influencing and interpersonal skills
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Demonstrated experience operating in remote aviation environments

Essential

• A minimum of 3,500 hours flight time
• A minimum of 3,000 hours command time
• A minimum of 500 hours turbine time
• A minimum of 500 hours multi-engine time
• A minimum of 200 hours night flight time
• Current Australian Commercial Pilot Licence
• Command Instrument Rating with a minimum of three Instrument Proficiency Checks
• Current Australian Driver's Licence
• Ability to obtain CASA approval to act as Head of Flight Operations within RFDS SA/NT operations

Desirable

• Management experience in a health related or aviation organisation
• Comprehensive experience in aero-medical operations
• Experience in rural/remote operations
• Extensive experience in training and checking of air crew, and/or instructing

Our Benefits

• Generous salary packaging options (up to $15,899 + $2,650 meal & entertainment)
• Competitive remuneration and flexible work arrangements
• Employee Assistance Program
• Reward and recognition programs, learning and development opportunities
• Comprehensive onboarding program and free onsite parking

How to Apply

Applications close at 11:59pm on 23 September 2026. RFDS reserves the right to appoint to the position before the published closing date – interested applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.