Company Description:
Bonipak Produce is a fourth-generation, family-founded grower based in the Santa Maria Valley, where rich, fertile soil has supported its work since 1932. The company is dedicated to sustainable growing practices, care for its workforce, and delivering fresh, nutritious produce that customers can rely on. Bonipak manages the complete process from seed to sale, including growing, harvesting, cooling, processing, and shipping. Each year, the company supplies millions of cartons of conventional and organic vegetables to retailers, wholesalers, and food service customers across North America. Team members join a long-standing organization focused on quality, consistency, and responsible agriculture.
Role Description:
The First Officer role is a full-time, on-site position based in Santa Maria, CA, supporting company flight operations and safe transport of management personnel, sales, company owners and their families. Day-to-day responsibilities may include assisting the Chief Pilot with pre-flight planning, conducting inspections, monitoring weather, stocking the aircraft, ordering catering, ground transportation, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations and company policies. The First Officer will support navigation, communication with air traffic control, and in-flight decision-making to promote safety, efficiency, and comfort for all passengers. This role also involves maintaining accurate flight records, collaborating with maintenance and operations teams, and participating in ongoing training to keep current with procedures and best practices. The First Officer is expected to contribute to a culture of safety, and professionalism.
Qualifications:
Demonstrated experience as a First Officer or comparable flight crew role, with strong knowledge of standard operating procedures and Crew Resource Management.
Valid commercial pilot certificate and appropriate ratings (e.g., multi-engine, instrument), with current First Class medical certification.
Proficiency in flight planning, navigation, and use of avionics and modern flight management systems such as Collins Proline 21 and Foreflight.
Sound understanding of aviation safety standards, regulatory requirements, and emergency procedures.
Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with the chief pilot, company management, passengers, office personnel, vendors, and ground personnel.
Attention to detail, situational awareness, and sound judgment under varying operational and weather conditions.
Ability to work flexible schedules, including weekends and holidays, depending on flight needs.
High school diploma or equivalent required; advanced aviation training or relevant college coursework preferred.
Commitment to Bonipak's values, including safety, respect for colleagues, and support for sustainable and responsible operations.
