The Director of Flight Operations is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant execution of Conair’s aerial firefighting and specialty air operations under CARs 702 and 703. As a Transport Canada-approved position, the DFO leads all aspects of flight operations, including operational control, pilot standards, regulatory compliance, and coordination with maintenance, training, and safety.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Deep understanding of commercial aviation operations, specifically under CARs 702/703
• Working knowledge of flight safety systems, compliance monitoring, and regulatory requirements
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to mentor and develop team members
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong decision-making ability, especially in time-sensitive and high-pressure situations
• Familiarity with aerial firefighting, float operations, and seasonal deployment models
• Proficiency with operational tools such as Skytrac, IONode, and SMS/scheduling platforms

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum 3 years of supervisory experience in commercial flight operations or equivalent PIC experience in aerial work or air taxi
• Professional Pilot License (CPL or ATPL); multi-engine and/or float ratings preferred
• Experience managing multi-base or seasonal operations
• Transport Canada approval (or ability to obtain) as Operations Manager (OM/DFO)
• Completion of Grade 12; post-secondary education in aviation or business is an asset

• Ensure full compliance with CARs 702/703 and other applicable Canadian Aviation Regulations.
• Exercise operational control in accordance with the Company Operations Manual.
• Manage and oversee daily flight operations and base activities across multiple sites.
• Develop and maintain the culture, structure, and roles within the Flight Operations group.
• Lead recruitment, training, performance management, and retention of all flight crew and departmental personnel.
• Coordinate operational planning, including fleet readiness, deployment strategies, and resource assignments.
• Collaborate closely with the Director of Maintenance, Director of Safety/Quality, and Training Managers to ensure seamless operational execution.
• Liaise with Transport Canada regarding all matters related to regulatory compliance, AOC Operations Specifications, audits, and monitoring.
• Develop, maintain, and update all Flight Operations manuals, including the Operations Manual, Training Manual, and Minimum Equipment List (MEL).
• Monitor and manage the annual Flight Operations budget, ensuring adherence to approved fiscal limits and operational guidelines.
• Implement and support the Safety Management System (SMS), including fatigue risk management and flight/duty time tracking.
• Participate in and support operational risk assessments, emergency response protocols, and accident investigations as required.
• Supervise and assess the performance of the Chief Pilot and Flight Operations Coordinator, including decisions related to proficiency, promotion, upgrading, discipline, or termination.
• Support new business opportunities, including the integration of new aircraft types and the implementation of customer-driven strategies.