Chief Pilot, EMS Helicopter Operations Leader

STARS Air Ambulance; Calgary; On-site; CAD 160,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental benefits

Free parking

Salary tailored to education and exp.

Job summary

STARS Air Ambulance is seeking a Chief Pilot to lead aviation operations across bases in Alberta. This full-time role combines management with active flight oversight, requiring extensive PIC experience, IFR/NVG expertise, and the ability to develop training programs.

The successful candidate will oversee SOPs, training, and operational directives while reporting to the VP Aviation. A strong leadership background and TC-approved qualifications are essential.

Qualifications

• Must hold Canadian ATPL(H) with Group 4 Instrument Rating.
• Qualified as PIC on Airbus H145 or able to qualify via STARS program.
• Experience in EMS or similar rotary-wing operations is required.
• CRM training and Transport Canada certification are required.
• Proven ability to develop and maintain pilot training programs.
• Strong multi-engine IFR and NVG operations background.

Responsibilities

• Maintain professional standards among flight crew.
• Develop, implement, and maintain SOPs for flight operations.
• Oversee all required training programs for flight crew.
• Issue operational directives and notices as required.
• Review and act on crew reports; provide mentorship to flight crew.
• Fulfill additional duties as directed by VP Aviation (Operations Manager).

Skills

Leadership

Coaching

Team development

Conflict resolution

Decision making

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Resilience

Adaptability

Operational excellence

Education

ATPL(H)

Group 4 Instrument Rating

Pilot-in-Command (PIC) on H145

CRM and CRM course (TC approved)

Crew Resource Management (CRM) course

IFR EMS or rotary-wing ops

Mountain flying certification

NVG operations experience

Meets CASS 723.07 Chief Pilot standards

Mix of multi-engine IFR and EMS experience

Job description

STARS Air Ambulance is seeking a Chief Pilot to lead aviation operations across bases in Alberta. This full-time role combines management with active flight oversight, requiring extensive PIC experience, IFR/NVG expertise, and the ability to develop training programs.

The successful candidate will oversee SOPs, training, and operational directives while reporting to the VP Aviation. A strong leadership background and TC-approved qualifications are essential.