Lead, Flight Test Data/Processing Programmer

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, Flight Test Data/Processing Programmer is responsible for designing, building, integrating, and operating systems used for the real-time display of aircraft data as well as post-test processing of recorded flight test data. This role supports the development of engineering data products used for flight test analysis and reporting. The successful candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop innovative data acquisition, processing, archival, and analysis solutions that support flight test operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, integrate, and maintain systems for real-time aircraft data display and post-flight data processing.
• Diagnose and resolve issues arising from flight test data collection, acquisition, and processing systems.
• Develop and implement process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reliability, and data quality.
• Create and maintain software applications that support flight test data acquisition, processing, and analysis activities.
• Develop data archiving and retrieval solutions that meet the needs of engineering and flight test customers.
• Collaborate with Instrumentation Engineering, Operations Engineering, IT Administration, and leadership teams to support data, status, and capability requirements.
• Develop, test, validate, and troubleshoot aircraft data processing algorithms and analytical tools.
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to flight test systems, processes, and technologies.
• Ensure data integrity, accuracy, and accessibility throughout the flight test lifecycle.
• Contribute to technical documentation, procedures, and user support activities.

Qualifications

Education

• University degree in Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Analytics, or a related technical discipline.

Experience

• 2 to 3 years of experience in a transportation category flight test environment is preferred.
• Experience with data processing, software development, or electrical systems design.
• Experience developing technical solutions within engineering or flight test organizations is considered an asset.

Technical Knowledge & Skills

• Knowledge of communication protocols such as:
  • Ethernet
  • MIL-STD-1553
  • ARINC 429
  • Fibre Channel
  • IEEE-1394
  • CAIS Bus (Common Airborne Instrumentation System Bus)
  • RS-422/485
• Experience with Symvionics IADS (Integrated Analysis and Display System) or similar data acquisition and display systems.
• Experience working with flight test instrumentation hardware and software.
• Understanding of IRIG 106 telemetry standards.
• Strong data processing, software development, and troubleshooting capabilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including:
  • Microsoft Word (Intermediate)
  • Microsoft Excel (Intermediate)
  • Microsoft PowerPoint (Intermediate)

Success Factors

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-based environment.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic flight test environment.
• Strong customer focus with the ability to understand and support engineering requirements.

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.