Location: Tamworth, with multi-site responsibility

Reports To: Head of Operations (HoO)

Direct Reports: Nil

Salary: Excellent remuneration package, negotiable based on experience and qualifications

Key Relationships: Operational leaders and managers across both sites, flight instructors, students

About Us

SFC was born as Schofields Flying Club Ltd. and has grown to be the largest flying club in NSW. The club has had a proud history of flying operations over 57 years, with flight training and club flying as its core activities. SFC Pilot Academy Tamworth was born in 2023 with the growth of SFC in the last 20 years.

Sydney Flight College was introduced by the club in 2001 with a variety of academic accreditations. With continuing growth, the club now distinguishes its training and club activities as a family of SFC names. SFC Pilot Academy Tamworth and Sydney Flying Club are newer faces to the business now continuing the proud heritage of Schofields Flying Club Limited.

The organisation maintains an unblemished safety record that is the envy of general aviation operators throughout Australia. Under the Schofields banner Sydney Flying Club, Sydney Flight College and SFC Pilot Academy Tamworth are all managed by an industry leading safety management system that has the approval of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. Our members still affectionately call our operations "Schoies" in reflection of the affection they feel for our heritage and everything we have achieved together over the last fifty-seven years.

With continued growth and a strong intake of full-time students, we are seeking an experienced and driven Ground Theory Manager to lead and develop our ground training department.

The Role

Reporting directly to the Head of Operations, the Ground Theory Manager is responsible for the development and delivery of all ground-based training programs at SFC. This role will oversee and support instructors with the delivery of ground theory, ensure that content meets regulatory compliance and drive continuous improvement across all theory training programs.

The role will also include Flight Instructor duties from ab-initio training through to Multi-Engine and IFR training as qualifications permit.

Key Responsibilities

·       Coordinate with the Flight Operations Team regarding scheduling of Ground Theory Instructors.

·       Coordinate with the Flight Operations Team regarding scheduling of CASA Exams.

·       Provide remedial training and conduct student interventions in line with the Student Handbook.

·       Ensure students are progressing in line with their course schedule.

·       Provide monthly reports on student progress.

·       Oversee stocktake and ordering of Ground Theory resources (textbooks, navigation equipment, and training materials), ensuring accuracy and availability.

·       Lead, mentor and upskill Ground Theory Instructors.

·       Support the recruitment of Ground Theory Instructors.

·       Oversee standardised delivery of ground training programs (RPL, PPL, CPL, IREX, and advanced courses) across all SFC bases.

·       Develop, implement, and continuously improve training syllabi in line with Part 61 MOS and SFC standards.

·       Ensure compliance with CASA regulations and internal quality assurance systems.

·       Manage and review all training materials, LMS content, and academic resources.

·       Drive innovation in training delivery, including online and blended learning environments.

·       Lead the development and implementation of ATPL, MCC, and advanced airline preparation courses.

·       Contribute to strategic planning and growth initiatives within the college.

·       Foster a positive, professional, and supportive learning environment for a diverse student body.

·       Support the organisation’s safety culture and compliance with the Safety Management System (SMS) and relevant Work Health and Safety (WHS) obligations.

Essential Requirements

·       ATPL, or CPL with all ATPL theory credits

·       Current Instructor Rating with Grade 1 Training Endorsement

·       Current Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating

·       Flight Instructor Rating Training Endorsement

·       Diploma qualification in aviation (or equivalent)

·       Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (or higher education qualification)

·       Demonstrated leadership experience within an aviation training environment

·       Strong knowledge of CASA Part 61 MOS and regulatory requirements

·       High level of proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly PowerPoint

·       Proven experience in developing training materials and LMS-based content

·       Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

·       Strong organisational and project management skills

·       Deep understanding of adult learning principles

·       Professional presentation and leadership presence

·       Current Working with Children Check

·       Current ASIC

·       Current Class 1 or 2 Medical

·       Ability to pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test

·       Full working rights in Australia

Highly Desirable

·       Current Flight Examiner Rating (RPL, PPL, CPL or MEIFR)

·       Multi Engine Training Endorsement

·       Instrument Rating Training Endorsement

·       Extensive experience teaching and managing aviation theory programs

·       Experience in developing ATPL, MCC, or airline-focused training programs

·       Airline, charter, or multi-crew operational experience

·       Experience with LMS platforms (particularly Moodle)

·       Experience in instructional design for online and blended learning

·       Experience with B737 MCC course development or simulator instruction

Why Join SFC?

·       Be part of a long-established and highly respected aviation institution

·       Lead and shape the next generation of aviation training programs

·       Work with a passionate and professional team

·       Opportunity to influence strategic direction and program development

·       Competitive salary with flexibility for the right candidate

SFC places strong emphasis on attitude, professionalism, and work ethic. We are committed to building a high-performing team and are willing to negotiate an attractive package for the right individual.