Production Pilot - CL515 Type
About De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC)
De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC) stands as a venerable and globally recognized name within the aerospace industry. Renowned for its groundbreaking contributions to aviation, DHC is distinguished by an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, DHC oversees a robust team of approximately 1,400 employees stationed across British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, complemented by an extensive network in international markets and distribution hubs.
Established in 1928, De Havilland Canada boasts a rich heritage, marked by the development of some of the most iconic and versatile aircraft ever produced. These celebrated aircraft have performed diverse roles, from pioneering bush flying to commercial aviation, earning acclaim for their rugged durability, exceptional operational versatility, and superior performance.
Over several decades, De Havilland Canada has continuously evolved, adeptly responding to the dynamic needs of the aviation sector. Today, the organization transcends its identity as merely an aircraft manufacturer; it is a comprehensive aerospace company, offering extensive capabilities that encompass design, production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. These intricate operations are supported by a dedicated team of highly skilled engineers, technicians, and industry professionals, all committed to upholding the most stringent standards of craftsmanship and innovation.
Position Summary
Reporting directly to the Director, Flight Operations, the Production Pilot assumes a critical role in conducting comprehensive hangar, ground, and flight tests essential for certifying new aircraft on behalf of De Havilland Aircraft of Canada. This pivotal position specifically focuses on the CL515 aircraft type. The Production Pilot also lends considerable technical expertise to the development of flight manuals and checklists. Furthermore, the incumbent will be responsible for repositioning aircraft to various operational bases or directly to customers. Ideal candidates will possess proven familiarity and extensive experience with Transport Canada (TC), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), or European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)-approved engineering flight test processes and procedures pertinent to Transport Canada aircraft.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Conducts rigorous production test flights to thoroughly test and certify new aircraft, ensuring they are safe, free of discrepancies, and conform precisely to type certification standards.
- Performs meticulous acceptance flights alongside customer pilots for their newly acquired aircraft.
- Executes specialized engineering test flights to certify modified or new equipment for existing aircraft types, ensuring compliance and optimal performance.
- Carries out impactful International Sales and Marketing Demonstration Flights to effectively showcase aircraft capabilities to prospective global customers.
- Performs international delivery flights, efficiently transporting aircraft to their designated worldwide destinations.
- Delivers comprehensive entry-into-service pilot training at customer bases, with assignments potentially extending up to 30 days.
- Generates detailed written reports for production and engineering teams, precisely documenting any observed aircraft or system discrepancies.
- Contributes actively to the development and meticulous maintenance of essential technical manuals, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Flight Test Procedures (FTPs), and Quick Reference Handbooks (QRHs).
- Ensures the accurate and timely completion of all applicable pre- and post-flight documentation, maintaining stringent record-keeping standards.
- Plans flights and trips with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring all logistical aspects are comprehensively addressed.
- Completes all post-flight duties diligently, including promptly notifying the company of the aircraft’s location when away from base, accurately recording flight times, and reporting any defects.
- Conducts thorough crew briefings to ensure clear communication and operational readiness.
- Performs additional duties as assigned by leadership, supporting overall flight operations objectives.
Education & Experience Requirements
- A minimum of five (5) years of experience as a pilot in a multi-crew aircraft environment.
- Possession of a current instrument rating and a valid Class 1 medical certificate.
- Demonstrated strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, essential for effective interaction with diverse stakeholders.
- Extensive knowledge related to the engineering flight testing of Transport Canada aircraft.
- Proven ability to effectively serve as an aircraft commander, adept at fostering positive and cooperative relationships with crew members, management, and customers.
- International flight experience and/or a background as a training captain is highly advantageous.
- A strong technical background in aircraft design, certification, or training is considered a significant asset.
- Possession of a current Canadian Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL), complemented by a minimum of 4,000 hours of total flying time and at least 500 hours of pilot-in-command time on turboprop aircraft, with a specific type rating for CL215/415.
- Ability and willingness to work irregular hours, including weekends, and to travel extensively at short notice. This role may require significant periods of travel.