Lead Captain

At Clay Lacy Aviation, we’ve built a legacy of excellence by combining innovation, safety, and exceptional service. We’re looking for people who share our passion for aviation and our commitment to doing the right thing. Here, curiosity and continuous learning are valued, and teamwork is essential. If you’re ready to contribute your skills in a supportive, high-performing environment where every detail matters, you’ll find opportunities to grow your career and be part of shaping the future of private aviation.

Position Summary

Clay Lacy Aviation is seeking a highly experienced, safety-focused Lead Captain for our Part 91 Gulfstream G600 based in San Jose, CA (KSJC). Candidates must hold a current FAA GVII type rating and reside within a two-hour driving distance of the aircraft base or be willing to relocate. This is not a commutable position.

The Lead Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of all assigned flights while delivering an exceptional level of customer service. This role provides leadership, mentorship, and operational oversight to the flight crew, ensuring the highest standards of safety, professionalism, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.

• Position: Lead Captain

• Aircraft: Gulfstream G600

• Position Type: Full-time only; no contract

• Location: San Jose, CA (KSJC)

• Operation: 91

• Compensation/Benefits: $360,000-$415,000; fully paid medical/healthcare premium.

Responsibilities

Flight Operations:

• Serve as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of Gulfstream G550 aircraft, operating domestic and international flights in accordance with FAA regulations, company policies, and aircraft limitations.

• Ensure all flights are conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable regulations and procedures.

• Conduct thorough pre-flight planning, including weather analysis, NOTAM review, performance calculations, and route optimization.

• Monitor aircraft systems and performance during flight, making appropriate adjustments and decisions as necessary.

• Communicate effectively with air traffic control, ground personnel, and passengers.

• Complete all required flight documentation accurately and in a timely manner.

Leadership & Mentorship

• Provide leadership and guidance to the flight crew, fostering a professional and collaborative environment.

• Mentor First Officers, assisting with their professional development and ensuring their adherence to company standards.

• Act as a primary point of contact for operational matters related to the G600

• Participate in crew resource management (CRM) training and promote effective crew communication.

Safety & Compliance

• Adhere strictly to all Clay Lacy Aviation safety policies and procedures.

• Maintain a high level of situational awareness and exercise sound judgment in all operational decisions.

• Actively participate in the company's Safety Management System (SMS).

• Ensure all required inspections, maintenance, and airworthiness directives are met for the assigned aircraft.

Customer Service

• Deliver an exceptional level of customer service, ensuring passenger comfort, safety, and satisfaction.

• Represent Clay Lacy Aviation professionally in all interactions with clients and partners.

Administrative & Other Duties

• Complete administrative tasks as assigned, including expense reports and scheduling coordination.

• Stay current with aviation regulations, procedures, and technological advancements relevant to the G600

• Maintain a flexible schedule, including availability for extended trips, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Requirements & Qualifications:

• FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate.

• Type Rating: Gulfstream G-VII (G600).

• Current FAA First Class Medical Certificate.

• FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit.

• Minimum of 4,000 hours total flight time.

• Minimum of 2,000 hours Pilot-in-Command (PIC) turbine time.

• Minimum of 1,000 hours PIC in multi-engine jet aircraft.

• Minimum of 500 hours PIC in Gulfstream G600 aircraft.

• International experience preferred.

• Demonstrated strong leadership and decision-making abilities.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Exceptional knowledge of FARs, ICAO regulations, and aircraft systems.

• Proficiency in flight planning software and electronic flight bags (EFBs).

• Strong commitment to safety and professional excellence.

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• Flexibility and adaptability to changing schedules and operational demands.

• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen, FAA background check, and criminal history record check.

• Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Benefits and Culture

Clay Lacy Aviation offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our employees’ health, well-being, and peace of mind. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) retirement plan; paid time off and paid holidays; loss of license insurance; pet insurance options; and additional wellness resources.

Our culture is service-driven and collaborative, grounded in excellence, care, accountability, and trust, while supporting our teams in a fast-paced, high-responsibility environment. We foster teamwork, promote responsibility, and create an environment where employees can perform at their best while delivering consistently high standards of service.