Direct Entry First Officer (Permanent) - A320/A330
Role Overview and Opportunity
Aer Lingus UK, a subsidiary of Ireland's only "4-Star" airline (as awarded by SkyTrax World Airline Star Rating), is seeking highly experienced and professional aviation candidates for the permanent role of Direct Entry First Officer, based in Manchester. The successful candidate will join a dedicated team committed to delivering an exceptional travel experience, prioritizing the highest levels of safety and customer enjoyment on every flight.
A career as a First Officer with Aer Lingus UK provides the opportunity to join a highly respected carrier, allowing the successful applicant to shape their future while exploring a global network. Furthermore, A320 type-rated candidates will be offered the incredible opportunity to undergo a Cross-Crew Qualification (CCQ) program and gain an A330 type rating, significantly enhancing their professional portfolio.
Key Responsibilities of the First Officer
The First Officer is a key member of the flight crew, responsible for upholding operational integrity and service standards. Core duties will include:
- Safety Leadership: Ensuring the safety and well-being of all customers and crew by maintaining the highest safety standards, executing duties strictly in line with company policies, procedures, Aer Lingus UK Operations Manuals, and regulatory requirements.
- Operational Excellence: Collaborating effectively with fellow flight and cabin crew members to ensure smooth, efficient, and cohesive operational procedures across all phases of flight.
- Customer Focus: Handling customer queries and concerns with professionalism and empathy, resolving issues effectively, and making diligent efforts to meet or exceed the needs and preferences of all passengers.
Candidate Profile and Essential Criteria
To be considered for the Direct Entry First Officer position, candidates must satisfy the following prerequisite criteria:
- Must be a minimum age of 18 years.
- Must be eligible to live and work in the UK without restriction.
- Must be able to apply for and obtain relevant US immigration/entry visas, which is a compulsory pre-requisite for this role due to travel requirements to/from the United States.
- Possession of a valid passport allowing unrestricted worldwide travel.
- Must possess a valid UK ATPL or ATPL (f) licence.
- Must hold an A330 or A320 Type-Rating.
- Demonstrable time on type: A330 experience is flexible, or 1,500 hours on A320 for candidates pursuing the CCQ opportunity.
- The Licence Proficiency Check (LPC) must be valid upon commencement of employment.
- Fluent English language proficiency, both spoken and written, with an English Language Proficiency (ELP) level 5 minimum requirement.
- Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability to working shifts, including unsociable hours, weekends, holidays, and overnights.
- Ability to report for duty within 120 minutes when assigned standby duty.
- Ability to successfully pass an airport security vetting procedure, including a five-year background check.
Compensation and Benefits Package
Aer Lingus UK offers a comprehensive and competitive reward package to successful candidates, which includes:
- Competitive salary, terms, and conditions reflective of a Direct Entry role.
- Generous pension contributions.
- Private health insurance coverage.
- Staff Travel Concessions across the Aer Lingus network and beyond, facilitating personal travel.
- Access to a Health and Wellbeing application.
- Life insurance coverage.
Recruitment and Selection Pathway
Candidates proceeding through the selection process should expect the following stages:
- CV submission directly to Aer Lingus.
- Initial telephone screening interview conducted by Aer Lingus.
- Teams interview with Aer Lingus UK Flight Operations and Human Resources teams.
- Psychometric and aptitude evaluations.
- Simulator assessment.
- Mandatory intoxicant screening.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Aer Lingus is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and respectful work environment that values the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of all employees. The airline embraces diversity and provides equal opportunities to all qualified individuals, without discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected status. Candidates requiring accommodations to support their application process are encouraged to contact the recruitment team.