About This Role
Metrea Aerial Effects LLC (MAFF) is seeking a Head of Flight Operations (Chief Pilot) for their aerial firefighting division, specializing in DHC-8 tactical retardant application operations. This is a leadership and management role equivalent to an FAA Director of Flight Operations, responsible for safe, compliant, and effective flight operations. The ideal candidate will have extensive aerial firefighting experience (300+ hours) with at least 200 hours in water or retardant application, preferably on DHC-8-400 aircraft. The role requires strong leadership, regulatory compliance expertise, and the ability to manage flight operations departments, pilot training programs, and safety management systems in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Lead and manage flight operations department in accordance with company standards and core values
- Recruit, retain, develop and manage qualified flight operations personnel
- Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and tactics (TTPs) for aerial firefighting operations
- Maintain compliant Operations Manuals, procedures, and Maintenance Equipment Lists (MEL)
- Ensure flight operations department is adequately resourced and schedules are managed efficiently
- Provide guidance on flight crew selection and allocation to meet operational requirements
- Promote and implement Safety Management System (SMS)
- Assess and manage operational risks in accordance with SMS manual
- Liaise with regulatory authorities (FAA/EASA) on operational and regulatory matters
- Coordinate with Ground Operations Manager to ensure operational control and planning efficiency
- Coordinate with Head of Crew Training to maintain training standards and development pathways
- Coordinate with Continuing Airworthiness Manager to maintain airworthiness standards
- Coordinate with Quality, Compliance and Safety Managers to ensure robust compliance practices
- Attend and chair Safety Review Board and Safety Action Group meetings
- Maintain operational metrics and report performance to management
- Oversee training and monitoring of aerial firefighting crews
- Expand and enhance DHC-8 AFF program capabilities
- Provide mentorship and guidance to deputy pilots and experienced crews
- Demonstrate exceptional communication and collaboration in fast-paced environment
What We Offer
Health and welfare benefitsRetirement plan eligibility
Requirements
- FAA or EASA pilot license
- Minimum 300 hours multi-engine aircraft flying experience in aerial firefighting capacity
- At least 200 hours in water or retardant application missions
- DHC-8-400 AFF experience preferred, or equivalent experience on CL415, C-130, BAe-146/RJ with DHC-8 300 experience
- Previous Chief Pilot or Assistant Chief Pilot experience in organization with 10+ pilots (highly desirable)
- 5 years relevant work experience, with at least 2 years in aeronautical industry
- Comprehensive knowledge of applicable aviation safety regulations
- Familiarity with Management Systems (preferably aviation)
- Appropriate management experience in comparable organization
- Capable of receiving Canadian Foreign License Validation Certificate
- Exceptional English proficiency (spoken and written)
- Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
- Ability to thrive in fast-paced environment with limited supervision
- Valid Class 1 Medical Certificate (implied)
About Metrea Aerial Effects LLC (MAFF)
Metrea Aerial Effects LLC (MAFF) is a defense company dedicated to translating commercial innovation into solutions for national security. MAFF brings advanced technologies and tactics from wildland firefighting to innovative, integrated aviation and training solutions tailored to customer needs.