How to Be Skydiving Operations Manager - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 21, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Skydiving operations managers are responsible for the smooth running of all the skydiving activities in an organization. They ensure that skydivers receive top-notch safety instruction, optimal equipment and proper supervision during their skydiving experience. They also manage all aspects of the facility, from scheduling skydiving trips to selecting appropriate staff members.

The operations manager also works to ensure that all safety protocols are followed and that all participants understand the risks associated with skydiving. By keeping these standards high, the operations manager is able to ensure that skydivers have an enjoyable experience while minimizing the risk of injury or death.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Most employers require a high school diploma or GED for operations manager positions.
Consider earning an associate or bachelor's degree in business administration, aviation management, or a related field. Many employers prefer an operations manager with a college degree.
Earn a skydiving instructor certification from the United States Parachute Association (USPA). This certification requires at least 25 jumps and the completion of an instructor course.
Gain experience working as a skydiving instructor. After becoming certified, you should gain experience working as a skydiving instructor. This will give you an understanding of the day-to-day operations of a skydiving business.
Apply for open operations manager positions at skydiving businesses. Many operations manager positions are posted online and in local newspapers.
Interview with potential employers. During the interview, be prepared to discuss your experience, education, and qualifications for the position.
Negotiate salary and benefits with the employer. Once you have been offered the position, negotiate a salary and benefits package that is fair and meets your needs.
Complete any necessary training or orientation. Many skydiving businesses require operations managers to complete additional training or orientation before beginning their new position.

A successful Skydiving Operations Manager must have the right combination of qualifications, experience, and skills to ensure that operations run smoothly and safely. Qualifications include a college degree in business, aviation, or a related field, and a certification from a recognized skydiving organization. Experience is also key, as a manager must be able to assess risk and make decisions in complex situations.

Furthermore, they must have excellent communication and problem-solving skills to be able to coordinate operations between all parties involved. With these skills in place, a Skydiving Operations Manager can be a reliable and effective leader who can keep operations running safely and efficiently.

You may want to check Skydiving Pilot, Freefly Coach, and Skydiving Event Coordinator for alternative.

Job Description

Oversee daily operations of skydiving business;
Develop and implement safety protocols and procedures;
Lead, train and manage staff;
Plan and coordinate skydiving trips, events and activities;
Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers and vendors;
Monitor and manage budgets and accounts;
Monitor customer satisfaction and address customer concerns;
Track and maintain equipment inventory;
Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations;
Develop marketing strategies;
Research and develop new skydiving activities;
Negotiate contracts with customers and vendors;
Prepare and submit reports to management.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Extensive knowledge of skydiving regulations and safety procedures.
Proven experience in managing skydiving operations.
Ability to develop and implement strategies to increase efficiency and profitability.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to motivate and lead a team of skydivers.
Ability to identify problems and develop creative solutions.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Proficient in the use of computer software related to skydiving operations and safety systems.
Ability to provide accurate financial reporting and budgeting.
Knowledge of marketing, public relations, and customer service strategies.

A successful skydiving operations manager must have a wide range of skills to be effective in their role. A key skill is the ability to manage a team effectively and efficiently. They must be able to communicate clearly with their staff, as well as having the organizational skills necessary to plan and coordinate operations.

They must also be able to think quickly and strategically in order to solve problems and make decisions on the spot. they must have an in-depth knowledge of aviation safety regulations, as well as the ability to maintain and inspect aircraft and parachutes. Finally, a skydiving operations manager must have a strong focus on customer service and satisfaction, as they are responsible for ensuring that all customers have a safe, enjoyable experience.

All these skills are vital in keeping skydiving operations running smoothly and safely.

Skydiving Tandem Master, Skydiving Ground Crew Member, and Skydiver Spotter are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have that makes you a good candidate for this position?
How do you manage risk and safety in a skydiving operation?
What strategies do you use to motivate and lead a team of skydiving instructors?
How do you handle customer complaints and unsatisfied clients?
How can you ensure that all safety procedures are followed in the skydiving operations?
How do you prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment?
What strategies do you use to optimize the efficiency of the skydiving operations?
What would you do to ensure the highest standards of customer service?
How can you use technology and data to improve the skydiving operations?
How do you handle unexpected changes or challenges in the skydiving environment?

Common Tools in Industry

Flight Management Software. This software allows skydiving operations managers to track, manage and report on aircraft flight operations. (eg: Skydive Manager)
Risk Management Software. This software helps skydiving operations managers identify and assess potential risks associated with skydiving operations. (eg: Skydive Risk Manager)
Safety Management Software. This software helps skydiving operations managers monitor and maintain safety standards in operations. (eg: Skydive Safety Manager)
Scheduling Software. This software helps skydiving operations managers organize and manage bookings and schedules. (eg: Skydive Scheduler)
Resource Management Software. This software helps skydiving operations managers allocate resources, such as aircrafts, personnel, and equipment. (eg: Skydive Resource Manager)
Compliance Management Software. This software helps skydiving operations managers ensure compliance with applicable regulations and standards. (eg: Skydive Compliance Manager)
Data Analysis Software. This software helps skydiving operations managers analyze data from flight operations and other activities in order to identify trends or problems. (eg: Skydive Analytics)

Professional Organizations to Know

United States Parachute Association (USPA)
British Parachuting Association (BPA)
International Bodyflight Association (IBA)
Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI)
European Skydiving League (ESL)
International Skydiving Commission (ISC)
World Freefall Convention (WFC)
World Air Sports Federation (WASF)
International Freefall Association (IFA)
AFF Association (AFFA)

We also have Freefall Camera Operator, Skydiving Flight Suit Technician, and Skydiving Risk Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Drop Zone. The area where parachuting activities take place.
Parachute System. The equipment used by skydivers during a jump, including the parachute, harness, and auxiliary items such as altimeters, helmets, and goggles.
Flight Plan. A document which outlines the route and altitude to be flown during a parachuting activity.
Airspace. The area of the sky designated for specific aviation activities, such as parachute jumping or gliding.
Weather Conditions. The atmospheric characteristics that affect parachuting activities, such as wind speed, temperature, and visibility.
Exit Point. The location from which a parachutist jumps from an aircraft or other platform.
Landing Zone. The area where a parachutist must come to rest after a jump.
Pre-jump Briefing. An in-depth discussion of the upcoming parachuting activity, including an introduction to the flight plan, weather conditions, and emergency procedures.
Emergency Procedures. Steps to be taken in the event of an emergency while parachuting, such as a malfunctioning parachute or a medical emergency.
Risk Management. The process of identifying and mitigating potential risks associated with parachuting activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the responsibility of a Skydiving Operations Manager?

A Skydiving Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of skydiving operations, including scheduling and coordinating jumps, maintaining safety protocols, managing staff and budgeting.

What qualifications are necessary to become a Skydiving Operations Manager?

To become a Skydiving Operations Manager, one must have a high school diploma and experience in skydiving operations, safety procedures, and customer service. Additional qualifications may include a Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management or Business Administration.

What are the primary duties of a Skydiving Operations Manager?

The primary duties of a Skydiving Operations Manager include scheduling jumps, ensuring safety protocols are followed, training and managing staff, and preparing and managing budgets.

How many staff members does a Skydiving Operations Manager typically manage?

A Skydiving Operations Manager typically manages anywhere from five to twenty staff members depending on the size of the business.

What safety regulations does a Skydiving Operations Manager need to be aware of?

A Skydiving Operations Manager needs to be aware of federal, state, and local safety regulations and have an understanding of the rules and regulations governing skydivers and skydiving operations. They must also ensure that safety protocols are strictly followed and regularly updated.