Lead Aircraft Controller

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC) is a storied name in the aerospace industry, recognized worldwide for its pioneering contributions to aviation and its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. Headquartered in Calgary, AB, DHC currently has approximately 2,400 employees across British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, as well as in markets and distribution hubs world-wide.

Established in 1928, De Havilland Canada has a rich history marked by the development of some of the most iconic and versatile aircraft ever built. These aircraft have served a variety of roles - from bush flying to commercial aviation - and are celebrated for their rugged durability, operational versatility, and excellence in performance.

Over the decades, De Havilland Canada has evolved to meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. Today, we are more than just an aircraft manufacturer; we are a comprehensive aerospace company with capabilities that span design, production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Our operations are supported by a team of skilled engineers, technicians, and industry professionals who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.

Job Summary

The Lead Aircraft Controller serves as the primary focal point for the coordination, authorization, and reporting of all flight and ground test preparation activities for assigned flight test vehicles and/or aircraft throughout all phases of a flight test program. This role ensures maintenance, modification, instrumentation, and system readiness activities are planned, coordinated, and completed to support safe and efficient flight test operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate under the day-to-day direction of the Lead Flight Test Engineer (FTE), Flight Test Manager, and/or Aircraft Support Supervisor.
• Coordinate, monitor, and control all maintenance and modification activities performed on assigned flight test vehicles, including flight test instrumentation, aircraft systems modifications, data acquisition systems, and other test-related installations.
• Provide coordination support for short-term flight test planning and daily aircraft preparation activities.
• Maintain visibility of flight test vehicle status, configuration, and readiness to support testing schedules and operational requirements.
• Assemble flight test aircraft work packages for the Aircraft Support Team and ensure all testing-related work is completed before test execution.
• Conduct pre-flight briefings with flight test crews regarding aircraft status, test configuration, and readiness for flight.
• Track, report, and coordinate the resolution of deferred maintenance items, discrepancies, and flight test vehicle snags.
• Work collaboratively with engineering, maintenance, operations, and support teams to ensure aircraft are prepared and configured to meet test objectives.
• Support flight test operations by providing timely updates on aircraft status, work scope completion, and test readiness.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Lead Flight Test Engineer or Flight Test Manager.

Qualifications

Education

• University degree in Engineering, or
• College diploma as an Engineering Technologist, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a transport-category flight test environment preferred.
• Experience coordinating aircraft maintenance, modification, or flight test support activities.
• Experience working in a regulated aviation environment with multiple stakeholders and competing priorities.

Computer Skills

• Microsoft Word (Intermediate)
• Microsoft Excel (Intermediate)
• Microsoft PowerPoint (Intermediate)
• Proficiency with standard office productivity and reporting tools.

Success Factors

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Strong understanding of flight test practices, processes, and principles.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across engineering, maintenance, operations, and management functions.
• Professionalism and the ability to build productive working relationships in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Strong organizational and coordination skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Interest and effectiveness in a project-driven environment where priorities may change rapidly.
• Good understanding of aircraft systems and aircraft operations.
• Ability to read, interpret, and understand aircraft system schematics and technical documentation.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Why work at De Havilland?

De Havilland Canada is a Canadian-owned and operated aircraft manufacturer dedicated to providing rewarding opportunities in a diverse and welcoming workplace.

• Work with a team that makes a true difference in the world-making it possible for people to travel around the globe efficiently, comfortably and safely.
• We’ve manufactured over 5,600 aircraft including the most advanced turboprop in the air today. Our experience and expertise in constructing the highest performing aircraft in the industry is second to none.
• Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities are dynamic workplaces led by teams that support and encourage all employees.
• With a passionate team of innovators and a global network of support, De Havilland Canada proudly carries on it’s tradition as a leader in aerospace.

In addition to plenty of opportunities for career growth in a stimulating work environment, De Havilland Canada offers:

• Competitive wages
• Paid vacation
• Extended health benefits (medical, dental, vision, paramedical)
• Life insurance
• RRSP/DPSP Plan
• Employee and family assistance program

At De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC), we are committed to protecting our people, customers, shareholders and the public through Health & Safety Excellence. As such, it is expected that all employees maintain strict adherence to Health & Safety Policies and to perform key physical tasks of the position described in the job description and interview process. This may include but is not limited to the ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions including temperature extremes, confined spaces, working at heights and with or around chemicals. Employees are expected to adhere to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when at work which must include but is not limited to the ability to maintain a positive fit test when mask use is required.

At De Havilland Canada, we aim to be inclusive and diverse and provide equal opportunity for employment. All qualified applicants, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability, are encouraged to apply. De Havilland will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise your Talent Acquisition representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

Any offer of employment is conditional on the completion of positive and satisfactory background checks, which may include, proof that you are legally entitled to work in Canada, professional references, verification of employment history, verification of educational background and criminal background checks.