Head of Crew Training (Assistant Chief Pilot)

Metrea is a defense company dedicated to translating commercial innovation into solutions for national security challenges, delivering effects-as-a-service across domains. Metrea Aerial Effects (MAFF), a core capability unit, focuses on bringing the best technologies and tactics from wildland firefighting to high-fit, innovative, integrated aviation and training solutions tailored to customer needs.

Position Summary

Within Metrea MAFF, the Head of Crew Training (H/CT) role is equivalent to an FAA Chief Pilot, an EASA Nominated Person for Crew Training, or a CASA Head of Training and Checking. The H/CT is responsible to the Accountable Manager for providing trained, qualified, and competent crews to meet capability unit requirements. This position involves the daily management of the pilot training and development program. The H/CT manages training and evaluation programs to ensure all rostered and scheduled pilots are qualified and current and assists with managing the internal Line Audit program. The ideal candidate is a highly skilled and motivated professional with extensive experience in aerial firefighting, particularly in multi-engine long-term retardant application. They will be responsible for implementing aerial firefighting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) tailored to multi-mission capabilities, ensuring alignment with future platform advancements.

Key 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, including initial, recurrent, and specialized training for different aircraft types.
Ensure that all training programs comply with applicable aviation regulations and standards set by relevant authorities (e.g., FAA/EASA standards).
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of training programs through regular assessments and audits, making necessary adjustments to ensure quality.
Recruit, train, and supervise flight instructors, ensuring they 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 Safety Management System (SMS) and risk management practices within the training programs to ensure the highest standards of safety.
Drive continuous improvement by staying up to date with advancements in aviation training and incorporating new technologies and methodologies.
Perform duties as a check pilot during training and line flying sorties, serving as an essential crewmember.
Assist with expanding and enhancing the DHC-8 Aerial Firefighting program, including assessing and integrating new technologies and capabilities.
Assist the Head of Flight Operations (Chief Pilot) in collaborating with regulatory bodies to maintain compliance.
Provide mentorship and guidance to deputy pilots and experienced aerial firefighting crews, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
Demonstrate exceptional communication skills and collaborate effectively within a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Required Qualifications

Practical experience and expertise in the application of aviation safety standards and safe operating practices.
Comprehensive knowledge of applicable safety regulations, associated requirements, procedures, the capability unit's operations specifications, and relevant parts of the operations manual.
Familiarity with management systems, preferably in the area of aviation.
Appropriate management experience, preferably in a comparable organization.
A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, of which at least 2 years must be from the aeronautical industry in an appropriate position.
Extensive flying experience with multi-engine aircraft in an aerial firefighting capacity (>300 hours), with at least 200 hours in water or retardant application missions.
Hold an FAA or EASA license.
Exceptional proficiency in English, both spoken and written.
Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, particularly in ambiguous situations.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment with limited supervision.
Capability of receiving a Canadian Foreign License Validation Certificate.

Preferred Qualifications

Extensive DHC-8-400 Aerial Firefighting experience.
Current DHC-8 300 Line Training Captain highly desired.
Alternately, experience in Aerial Firefighting 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 within an organization operating at least ten pilots is highly desirable.

Additional Information

This is a full-time position. This role requires extensive domestic and international travel. The work location is remote, reporting to MAFF. Metrea offers health and welfare benefits and retirement plan eligibility. The work environment primarily involves aircraft. While largely a sedentary role, some physical abilities may be required.