The tone for any department is generally set by its top management. Unfortunately MANY large departments wind up being run by people who have no business running anything...Yes men.
Way too many Safety Committees, Standards Committees, Training Committees, hell I have even heard of "iPad Committees" I understand theres a certain level of admin work that needs volunteers or expected participation - but its gotten way out of control at many places. Beware buzz words like "optics" "team building" "win-win" etc...they are all code for "busy work"
Do a lot of research when interviewing around, be sure you can fit in well. You should look at them as hard as they look at you. Some places expect a lot more out of a pilot than others. Dont be surprised, know what is expected of you PRIOR to the marraige.
Downside to smaller operations? - same thing..a spineless leader who will do anything the owner asks. Throw in a Management company in the mix?? - recipe for disaster.
From 3 pilots to 25 pilots, find a place with a strong leader who looks out for his pilots instead of filling in a list of budget savings BS initiatives for himself...and you may find a decent job!
Impossible to name specific dream jobs, someones dream is anothers nightmare. I can read through some of the names mentioned here and cringe...but to each his own. Its all really just an opinion...and yes, most of the best jobs stay completely off the radar. Positions filled long before someone leaves.
Good Luck!
