Advanced RPAS Pilot

AIRS Flight Academy; Kamloops; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Competitive compensation

Hybrid work model

In‑office collaboration

Job summary

AIRS Flight Academy in Kamloops, BC seeks an experienced Advanced RPAS Pilot to lead flight operations and play a key role in safety, regulatory compliance, and project management.

The role blends hands-on flying with strategic responsibilities in a dynamic drone environment.

Qualifications

• Requires Transport Canada Advanced RPAS Pilot Certificate.
• Minimum 50 hours on DJI platforms (Mavic, Phantom, Matrice).
• Experience with multiple RPAS platforms and payloads.
• Clean flight record with strong safety history.

Responsibilities

• Oversee advanced RPAS flight operations across DJI platforms.
• Plan, execute and document complex missions with safety compliance.
• Develop and maintain safety management systems and SOPs.
• Lead multi‑phase RPAS projects from planning to execution.
• Mentor junior pilots and support team skill development.

Skills

Flight planning

Safety management

Project management

Team collaboration

Communication

Independence

Tools

DJI platforms

Job description

• Job Location: Kamloops, BC and surrounding area
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time
• Position Type: Opportunity for permanent employment.
• Work Arrangement: Hybrid (minimum 50% in-office collaboration required)
• Start Date: Flexible based on candidate availability
• Application Deadline: September 1, 2026

• Job Location: Kamloops, BC and surrounding area
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time
• Position Type: Opportunity for permanent employment.
• Work Arrangement: Hybrid (minimum 50% in-office collaboration required)
• Start Date: Flexible based on candidate availability
• Application Deadline: September 1, 2026

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Advanced RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) Pilot to join our dynamic team. This role combines hands‑on flight operations with strategic involvement in safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and project management. The ideal candidate will bring both technical flying expertise and a broader understanding of the drone industry landscape.

Key Responsibilities

Flight Operations

• Conduct advanced RPAS operations using various aircraft platforms, primarily DJI systems
• Plan and execute complex flight missions while maintaining the highest safety standards
• Perform pre‑flight inspections, risk assessments, and post‑flight documentation
• Operate in diverse environments and weather conditions within regulatory guidelines

Safety & Regulatory Compliance

• Develop and maintain safety management systems and standard operating procedures
• Ensure all operations comply with Transport Canada regulations and industry best practices
• Conduct safety briefings and risk assessments for flight operations
• Stay current with evolving RPAS regulations and industry standards

Project Management

• Lead and coordinate multi‑phase RPAS projects from planning through execution
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to deliver client solutions
• Manage project timelines, resources, and deliverables
• Provide technical expertise and recommendations to stakeholders

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with our in‑office team on project development and strategy
• Mentor junior pilots and support team skill development
• Contribute to business development and client relationship management
• Support training program development and implementation

Required Qualifications Certifications & Experience

• Valid Transport Canada Advanced RPAS Pilot Certificate
• Minimum 50 hours documented flight time on DJI platforms (Mavic, Phantom, Matrice series, etc.)
• Demonstrated experience with various RPAS platforms and payloads
• Clean flight record with strong safety performance history

Technical Skills

• Proficiency with flight planning software and mission management systems
• Understanding of airspace regulations, NOTAMs, and flight authorization processes
• Experience with data collection, processing, and analysis workflowsKnowledge of RPAS maintenance and troubleshooting procedures

Professional Competencies

• Strong project management skills with ability to handle multiple concurrent projects
• Excellent communication skills for client interaction and team collaboration
• Problem‑solving mindset with attention to detail and safety‑first approach
• Ability to work independently while maintaining team integration

Preferred Qualifications Industry Experience

• Background in commercial drone operations (surveying, inspection, mapping, etc.)
• Experience with specialized payloads (LiDAR, thermal imaging, multispectral cameras)
• Knowledge of photogrammetry, GIS, or data analytics applications
• Previous experience in aviation, engineering, or related technical fields

Additional Assets

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent
• Safety management system (SMS) training or certification
• Experience with regulatory submissions and SFOC applications
• Business development or client relationship management experience

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work with cutting‑edge RPAS technology and applications
• Collaborative team environment with opportunities for professional growth
• Involvement in diverse and challenging projects across multiple industries
• Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience
• Professional development support and continuing education opportunities

Work Environment

This position requires a minimum of 50% in‑office presence in the Kamloops area to ensure effective collaboration with our team. The remaining time may involve field operations, client sites, or remote work as project demands require. Travel within BC and potentially beyond may be required for specific projects.

Application Requirements

Please Submit

• Detailed resume highlighting RPAS experience and flight hours
• Cover letter outlining relevant industry experience and interest in safety/regulatory work
• Copies of relevant certifications (RPAS Pilot Certificate, etc.)
• Portfolio or examples of previous drone projects (if applicable)
• References from previous aviation or RPAS‑related positions