Tactical Operations Controller

Vista Global•Columbus, OH

About The Position

The Tactical Operations Controller streamlines and improves communication between the Operations Control Center (OCC) and flight crews. Reporting to the Head of OCC, this individual keeps crews informed and ensures operational questions and needs are addressed promptly. The role provides tactical oversight of daily flights, supports flight following and day-of-flight preparation, and coordinates with crews, OCC, AM/CS, handlers, airports, authorities, and other relevant teams. It requires flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Requirements

At least 2 years of experience in a commercial aviation operations environment in one or a combination of flight operations, ground operations/trip planning, or crew and/or aircraft scheduling.
Entrepreneurial skills, a professional attitude, and strong business acumen.
Team-oriented, proactive, service-driven, and able to think outside the box.
Strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills.
High customer-service orientation and cross-cultural understanding.
Proficiency with computer systems, including the MS Office Suite.
Worldwide flight and/or ground operations experience.
Flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays.

Nice To Haves

Aviation-related studies and/or degree.
Flight Dispatch License or Commercial Pilot License.

Responsibilities

Ensure timely and efficient communication among flight crews, OCC, and AM/CS.
Confirm flight details in GV, including slot alignment, permits, flight-plan filing times, delivery of flight packages to crews, and last-minute flight-plan adjustments.
Ensure crews acknowledge briefings and make phone calls to communicate time-sensitive tasking changes.
Update and maintain the daily tactical log and maintain a complete overview of the day's flights.
Monitor crew briefing acknowledgements and make crew activations or wake-up calls in accordance with applicable AOC procedures.
Before sensitive ferry or revenue flights, verify crew and aircraft readiness and confirm that handling, fuel, and catering are in place.
Raise alerts promptly when an issue may affect a trip.
Communicate aircraft movements to handlers, airports, or authorities such as CBP, as required.
Monitor non-ETOPS flights for significant enroute weather changes, volcanic activity, and alternate-aerodrome suitability; promptly notify the Duty Manager when follow-up is appropriate.
Ensure GV contains the appropriate movement records to trigger automated movement messages.
Maintain an overview of flight movements and inform relevant parties of deviations.
Monitor and respond to phone calls, emails, and Webex chat messages.
Communicate delays or deviations to OCC and AM/CS as soon as possible, including those caused by weather, ATC regulations, maintenance, or other issues.
Gather relevant information and initiate an IRT call according to the ERP when applicable.
Verify flight logs.
Handle day-of irregular operations promptly in coordination with the Duty Manager and relevant teams.
Manage ATFM restrictions, flight rerouting, ATS flight-plan management, and weather monitoring.
Manage ground arrangements and permits pending for the day of flight or otherwise arising during tactical preparation, including close-out messages and ETA updates to CBP.