WestJet | First Officer

Pilot / First Officer - WestJet Encore (Dash 8-400 Q400)

Location: Calgary, AB (YYC)

Employment Type: Full-time Hourly

Posting Open Date: 09/05/2025

Posting Close Date: 12/31/2025 (11:59 PM MST)

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Why Pursue a Career with WestJet?

WestJet transformed the Canadian airline landscape upon its founding in 1996, making air travel more accessible and now expanding its reach globally. A career with the WestJet Group represents an opportunity to enrich lives and participate in a global growth trajectory. The organization seeks dedicated aviation professionals who are ready for their story to take off within one of Canada's most respected corporate cultures. WestJet is actively accepting applications for future consideration in this highly sought-after role.

Overview of the First Officer Role

WestJet Encore is seeking highly professional and safety-focused aviators for the role of First Officer / Pilot, based at the Calgary operational hub (YYC). First Officers operate state-of-the-art De Havilland Dash 8-400 (Q400) turboprop aircraft across an expansive network, delivering safe and efficient air travel for all guests. Beyond flight deck responsibilities, the pilot acts as a key brand ambassador, demonstrating leadership to the flight crew while upholding WestJet’s rigorous corporate values and commitment to guest experience.

Key Pilot Deliverables

The successful candidate is responsible for:

• Strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), prioritizing the safety and security of all crew and guests.
• Serving as a flight crew leader by example, consistently demonstrating honesty and professional integrity.
• Effective communication and collaboration within a dynamic, team-oriented operational environment.
• Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability to respond efficiently to the changing demands of daily airline operations and business needs.
• Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism aligned with WestJet corporate values.

Minimum Experience and Qualifications

Candidates must meet or exceed the following mandatory requirements:

• A minimum of 750 hours total flight time.
• A minimum of 100 hours fixed-wing Pilot-in-Command (PIC) time.
• Possession of a valid Transport Canada Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).
• Possession of a valid Transport Canada Group 1 Instrument Rating.
• Possession of a valid Transport Canada Class 1 Medical Certificate.
• Successful completion of either the IATRA or the SAMRA and SARON examinations (must be currently valid).
• Must be legally entitled to work in Canada.
• Must possess a current, valid passport and, if not a Canadian citizen, a Canadian Permanent Resident Card.
• Ability to travel unrestricted to all WestJet Encore destinations (the candidate is solely responsible for acquiring any necessary visas or travel documents).
• Ability to obtain a Restricted Area Identification Card (RAIC) prior to the completion of Initial Ground School.
• Successful completion of a clear police background and criminal record check.
• Oral and written proficiency in the English language.
• Employment is conditional upon passing a pre-employment alcohol and drug screening test.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

Preference will be given to candidates who exceed the minimum qualifications, including but not limited to:

• Accumulated flight time exceeding 1000 hours.
• Possession of a Transport Canada Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL).
• Demonstrated experience with multi-engine and multi-crew flight operations.
• Previous internal experience as a WestJetter.
• Graduation from one of WestJet’s recognized partnership schools.
• Flight instructors holding a minimum Class 3 instructor rating and 1200+ hours total time.

Pilot-in-Command Under Supervision (PICUS) Program

WestJet Encore proudly supports a PICUS program. This initiative allows First Officers holding a CPL to accrue PICUS flight time and experience. First Officers may carry out 200 hours in an Encore aircraft for a maximum credit of 100 PICUS hours applicable toward ATPL requirements, as detailed in CAR 421.11.

Benefits of Being a WestJetter

WestJet provides its employees with a competitive total rewards package. Additionally, the organization offers:

• A fun and friendly culture with colleagues who collaborate to achieve success.
• Comprehensive travel privileges for the employee and their family, effective from the start date.
• Flexible savings and benefit programs designed to meet specific employee needs.

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About the WestJet Group of Companies

Together with its regional airline, WestJet Encore, the Group offers scheduled service to more than 100 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Europe, and to more than 175 destinations in over 20 countries through various airline partnerships.

Our Commitment to Safety and Diversity

The safety and security of all personnel and guests is a core value and central to WestJet’s operations. As safety and security is a shared responsibility, all employees are expected to use safe work practices. As this role is identified as safety-sensitive, successful candidates are required to pass a Pre-Employment Alcohol and Drug Test as per WestJet's Alcohol and Drug Policy. WestJet is committed to inclusiveness, equity, and accessibility, embracing what makes each team member unique. The organization encourages all qualified candidates to apply.

For more information about WestJet, please visit WestJet.com.