Flight Test Operations Leader for Certification Programs

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited; Calgary; On-site; CAD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited in Calgary, AB, seeks a Flight Test Operations Manager to lead engineering flight test programs, certify aircraft, and ensure continued airworthiness across a cross‑functional team of engineers, pilots, and technicians.

The role requires senior leadership, deep flight test expertise, and strong regulatory knowledge to drive safety, efficiency, and program success in a dynamic aerospace environment.

Qualifications

• 15–20 years of experience in a flight test environment.
• Approximately 10 years of progressive leadership in flight test engineering operations.
• Experience as a flight test crewmember is strongly preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Private Pilot Licence, where applicable to the incumbent's flying responsibilities.
• Experience with commercial aircraft certification processes and standards; knowledge of EASA is an asset.
• Experience with Safety of Flight principles, flight test risk assessment, and risk mitigation.
• Knowledge of modern flight operations and regulation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee aerospace flight test operations supporting engineering development, certification, continued airworthiness, and fleet support.
• Assign and authorize critical resources required to execute flight test operations.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development to Engineering Test Pilots, Flight Test Engineers, and Aircraft Configuration Controllers.
• Approve test procedures and endorse Safety of Flight documentation.
• Review and approve flight test risk assessments and implement mitigation measures.
• Oversee flight test activities to optimize schedule, resources, and risk.
• Maintain standards for flight test crew operations, training, and skills.
• Coordinate with certification authorities including Transport Canada and FAA.

Skills

Flight Test Leadership

People Management

Regulatory Compliance

Risk Assessment

Cross-functional Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Private Pilot Licence

Job description

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited in Calgary, AB, seeks a Flight Test Operations Manager to lead engineering flight test programs, certify aircraft, and ensure continued airworthiness across a cross‑functional team of engineers, pilots, and technicians.

The role requires senior leadership, deep flight test expertise, and strong regulatory knowledge to drive safety, efficiency, and program success in a dynamic aerospace environment.