POSITION PURPOSE

The Crew Optimization Specialist is responsible for compiling, analyzing, and coordinating monthly flight schedules to ensure safe, legal, dependable, and efficient crew coverage across all flight segments. This role oversees multiple crew pairing runs and actively collaborates with union committees to strategically select pairings that align with operational demands and regulatory compliance.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
 

Supports the strategic oversight and development of monthly trip sequences and bid line structures to optimize crew utilization in alignment with the flight schedule. Ensures that crew pairings and routing decisions proactively mitigate coverage challenges while driving cost efficiencies and operational reliability. Coordinates with Director of Crew Resources in determining flight hours on proposed schedules for each base and makes staffing recommendations. Drive continuous improvement in operational performance by identifying and implementing enhancements to pairing optimization software rules and solution attributes, with a focus on maximizing crew efficiency, regulatory compliance, and overall flight safety. Coordinates and communicates with Union Scheduling Committees and crewmembers regarding the methodology of the pairings and works with the unions to construct the monthly pairings. Establish and maintain effective communication with Market Planning regarding future aircraft schedules. Analyze and provide recommendations on structural changes such as crew domiciles that will improve productivity, efficiency and operational performance as it relates to the scheduling of crews. Coordinates hotel volume and requirements with crew accommodations provider for the initial monthly award. Provide analysis of beneficial changes in contractual issues to improve crewmember efficiency. Supports and executes special projects and analytical tasks under direction. Develop presentation and debrief materials for senior and executive level leadership regarding recommendations based on pairing scenarios. Lead comprehensive training sessions for Crew Planners on leveraging advanced pairing optimization software, including guidance on strategic adjustments and identification of optimal run selections to maximize efficiency and operational value within monthly scheduling cycles Assist with the preparation and administration of monthly roster awards. Maintain and publish the master seniority list for both pilot and flight attendant crewmembers.  This includes new hires, rehires, and terminations. Carries out additional responsibilities as needed to support operational goals. Fosters the Company’s core values and culture throughout the work environment. Analyze future schedules and identify areas for optimization or risk mitigation.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability necessary to perform this job.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE.

• Possesses a high school diploma complemented by over three years of hands-on experience in crew operations and aviation support, demonstrating a proven track record of reliability and operational insight.
• Brings comprehensive knowledge of airline operations and applicable federal aviation regulations, contributing to regulatory compliance and procedural excellence.
• Proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite—including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook—with the ability to leverage these tools for advanced data analysis, reporting, and cross-functional communication.
• Skilled in designing dynamic Excel spreadsheets with complex formulas to streamline data analysis, enhance reporting accuracy, and support strategic decision-making
• Demonstrates advanced organizational acumen and statistical expertise to extract, structure, and analyze complex datasets, delivering impactful insights through clear and actionable reporting that supports strategic decision-making.
• Exhibits exceptional self-direction and the ability to perform independently in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Maintains strict confidentiality with meticulous attention to detail, while leveraging advanced time management and prioritization skills to deliver consistently high-quality outcomes.
• Demonstrates flexibility and commitment to operational demands, including availability for extended work hours as needed.
• Effectively engages and collaborates with stakeholders across all levels of leadership and labor representation.
• Communicates with clarity, confidence, and professionalism to foster alignment and drive results.

PREFERRED EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Holds a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, providing a strong academic foundation in operations management and resource planning
• Experience with computer programming or scripting, enabling enhanced customization, automation, and optimization of planning tools
• Offers 4+ years of progressive experience in crew scheduling or operational planning, with proven success in optimizing workforce utilization across dynamic aviation environments
• Familiarity with crew optimization software (such as Jeppesen, S3RUS, Cygnus). 
• Knowledge of Sabre CrewTrac and IBS AdOpt software is preferred. 
• Strong background in analysis of crew schedule solutions with the ability to provide strategic recommendations to management
• Familiar with Power BI, including basic report navigation, dashboard interaction, and exploring visualization for data insight.  

LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.  Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. 

Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or associates of the organization.

REASONING/PROBLEM SOLVING ABILITY
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

DECISION MAKING

Makes decisions daily on use of resources, performance and budgets.  Decisions could require additional expenditure of resources if not sound decisions. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Able to move about the work environment. 

Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, talk and hear.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an associate encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Typically not exposed to extreme environmental conditions.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Travel up to 10 of the time, including nights, weekends, holidays and overnight travel.