Aerial Firefighting Head of Crew Training

Position Summary

The Head of Crew Training (H/CT) role is similar to an FAA assistant chief pilot, an EASA nominated person for crew training or a CASA head of training and checking. The H/CT is responsible to the Head of Flight Operations for the provision of trained, qualified, and competent crews to meet the CU’s assigned files. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Head of Crew Training to join our dynamic team.

Role And Responsibilities

• Ensure that all flight crew members are properly trained and qualified to perform their duties safely and efficiently.
• Design and implement comprehensive training programs for pilots and other flight crew members. This includes initial training, recurrent training, and specialized training for different aircraft types.
• Ensure that all training programs comply with aviation regulations and standards set by the applicable aviation authorities.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of training programs. This involves conducting regular assessments and audits to ensure training quality and making necessary adjustments.
• Recruit, train, and supervise flight instructors.
• Ensure that instructors are well-qualified and up-to-date with the latest training techniques and regulatory requirements.
• Manage training resources, including simulators, training aircraft, and other equipment.
• Implement SMS and risk management practices within the training programs to ensure the highest standards of safety.
• Implement continuous improvement by staying up to date with the latest advancements in aviation training and incorporating new technologies and methodologies to improve training effectiveness.
• Perform as a check pilot during training and line flying sorties, and serve as an essential crewmember.
• Assist with expanding and enhancing the DHC-8 AFF program, including assessing and integrating new technologies and capabilities.
• Assist the H/FLOPS (Chief Pilot) in collaborating with regulatory bodies to maintain compliance and ensure adherence to FAA / EASA standards.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to deputy pilots and experienced AFF crews, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
• Demonstrate exceptional communication skills and collaborate effectively within a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Skills And Experience

• Practical experience and expertise in the application of aviation safety standards and safe operating practices.
• Comprehensive knowledge of: the applicable safety regulations and any associated requirements and procedures.
• The CU's operations specifications; and the need for, and content of, the relevant parts of the CU’s operations manual.
• Familiarity with Management Structures preferably in the area of aviation.
• Appropriate management experience, preferably in a comparable organization.
• 5 years of relevant work experience of which at least 2 years should be from the aeronautical industry in an appropriate position.
• Extensive flying experience with multi-engine aircraft in an aerial firefighting capacity (>300 hours). A minimum of 200 hours of this must be in water or retardant application missions.
• FAA or EASA license, complemented by DHC-8-400 AFF experience preferred.
• Current DHC-8 300 line training captain is highly desired.
• Alternately, experience in AFF on another aircraft type (e.g. CL415, C-130, Bae-146/RJ, etc.) combined with DHC-8 300 experience will be considered.
• Previous experience (three of the last six years) in an Assistant Chief Pilot or Training Pilot position of an organization with at least ten pilots is highly desirable.
• Must be capable of receiving a Canadian Foreign License Validation Certificate.
• Exceptional proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory.
• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills in ambiguous situations.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment with limited supervision.

Culture

Metrea’s single core value “rooted in humility” is supported by four key attributes; entrepreneurial, systematic, discerning & over-deliver which combined; form our Teammate Firmware, our culture. These attributes are explored during the hiring process, when we grow our teams and to continually support the growth of our culture. We are a hyper-collaborative, dynamically hierarchical organization united by a passion for what we do, and how we do it, who we do it with, and who we do it for.

Benefits

• Health and welfare
• Retailment plan eligibility
• Work Authorization / Security Clearance

Our Culture

Metrea’s single core value “rooted in humility” is supported by four key attributes; entrepreneurial, systematic, discerning & over-deliver which combined; form our Teammate Firmware, our culture. These attributes are explored during the hiring process, when we grow our teams and to continually support the growth of our culture. We are a hyper-collaborative, dynamically hierarchical organization united by a passion for what we do, and how we do it, who we do it with, and who we do it for.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The role, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.