FTI (Flight Test Instrumentation) Lead

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited; Calgary; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Paid vacation

Extended health benefits

Life insurance

RRSP/DPSP Plan

Employee and family assistance program

Job summary

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited is seeking an experienced FTI Lead to design, fabricate, install, and develop operating instructions for Flight Test Instrumentation and Data Acquisition Systems used by Flight Test Engineers and crews. You will lead instrumentation efforts and support certification requirements.

Collaboration with aircraft development and engineering teams is essential to deliver reliable instrumentation solutions that meet testing needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, or Diploma in Engineering Technology or related technical discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in a flight test environment preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with flight test instrumentation systems and data acquisition systems.
• Relevant industry certifications are considered an asset.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word.

Responsibilities

• Develop and design Flight Test Instrumentation (FTI) systems for Flight Test Vehicles (FTVs).
• Interface with engineering disciplines to define and support instrumentation requirements.
• Create fabrication, installation, and implementation plans for FTI equipment.
• Develop and maintain FTI calibration processes, procedures, and tools.
• Identify and implement FTI solutions utilizing third-party COTS products.
• Create and maintain FTI operating procedures, instructions, and documentation.

Skills

Strong communication

Stakeholder management

Project planning

Budgeting

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Education

Bachelor's in Engineering

Diploma in Engineering Technology

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

Job description

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.

FTI Lead

Position Summary

As an FTI (Flight Test Instrumentation) Lead, you will work closely with DHC's Engineering teams to design, fabricate, install, and develop operating instructions for test equipment and Data Acquisition Systems (DAS) used by Flight Test Engineers (FTEs) and flight test crews. The FTI Lead provides technical leadership and support to ensure instrumentation systems perform as intended and support successful aircraft-level flight testing activities.

This role requires close collaboration with aircraft development teams, flight test personnel, and engineering stakeholders to develop and implement instrumentation solutions that meet testing and certification requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and design Flight Test Instrumentation (FTI) systems for Flight Test Vehicles (FTVs).
• Interface and collaborate with engineering disciplines to define and support instrumentation requirements.
• Create fabrication, installation, and implementation plans for FTI equipment.
• Develop and maintain FTI calibration processes, procedures, and tools.
• Identify and implement FTI solutions utilizing third-party commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products.
• Create and maintain FTI operating procedures, instructions, and documentation.
• Develop, manage, and monitor FTI design, implementation schedules, and budgets.
• Provide technical guidance and support to Flight Test Engineers and flight test teams.
• Ensure instrumentation systems are installed, configured, and functioning as required to support aircraft testing programs.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, or
• Diploma in Engineering Technology or a related technical discipline.

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a flight test environment preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with flight test instrumentation systems and data acquisition systems.

Certifications

• Relevant industry certifications are considered an asset.

Computer Skills

• Microsoft Word (Intermediate proficiency required).

Preferred Qualifications / Success Factors

• Experience in avionics or aerospace design, with a focus on Flight Test Instrumentation.
• Experience in electronics laboratory diagnostics, troubleshooting, and testing.
• Knowledge of Part 21 certification processes related to FTI installations.
• Experience using CATIA, SolidWorks, or equivalent CAD software.
• Strong project planning, organization, and budgeting capabilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills in a complex aerospace environment.

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.