Head of Crew Training

Head of Crew Training

Full Time

Requisition ID: 1985

Company Overview
Metrea is a defense company dedicated to translating commercial innovation into solutions for the hardest problems in national security. With deep mission expertise, Metrea focuses on delivering effects-as-a-service across domains. Metrea Management consists of three core capability groups (Air & Space, Electromagnetic & Cyber, Digital & Synthetic) and five support capability groups (Operations, Finance, Legal, Strategy and Solutions), that guide the development of specific capabilities that Metrea’s files (product, projects, programs etc) leverage to achieve their targets.

Capability Unit 

MAFF brings the best technologies and tactics from wildland firefighting to high-fit, innovative, integrated aviation and training solutions that are tailored to the special needs and circumstances of each customer.

Position Summary 

Within the Metrea MS, the H/CT role is equivalent to a FAA chief pilot, an EASA nominated person for crew training or a CASA head of training and checking. 

The H/CT is responsible to the Accountable Manager for the provision of trained, qualified and competent crews to meet the CU’s assigned Files. 

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated H/CT (Assistant Chief Pilot) to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in aerial firefighting, specifically in multi-engine long-term retardant application. They will be responsible for implementing AFF SOPs and TTPs tailored to multi-mission capabilities, ensuring alignment with future platform advancements. They will also have daily management responsibility for the pilot training and development program.

The H/CT (Assistant Chief Pilot) manages training and evaluation programs to ensure that all rostered and scheduled pilots are qualified and current. H/CT (Assistant Chief Pilot) assists with managing the internal Line Audit program.

Role and Responsibilities 

• Ensure that all flight crew members are properly trained and qualified to perform their duties safely and efficiently; 
• Design and implement comprehensive training programs for pilots and other flight crew members. This includes initial training, recurrent training, and specialized training for different aircraft types;
• Ensure that all training programmes comply with aviation regulations and standards set by the applicable aviation authorities;
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of training programs. This involves conducting regular assessments and audits to ensure training quality and making necessary adjustments;
• Recruit, train, and supervise flight instructors. Ensure that instructors are well-qualified and up-to-date with the latest training techniques and regulatory requirements;
• Manage training resources, including simulators, training aircraft, and other equipment;
• Implement SMS and risk management practices within the training programs to ensure the highest standards of safety;
• Implement continuous improvement by staying up to date with the latest advancements in aviation training and incorporating new technologies and methodologies to improve training effectiveness.
• Perform as a check pilot during training and line flying sorties, and serve as an essential crewmember
• Assist with expanding and enhancing the DHC-8 AFF program, including assessing and integrating new technologies and capabilities.
• Assist the H/FLOPS (Chief Pilot) in collaborating with regulatory bodies to maintain compliance and ensure adherence to FAA / EASA standards.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to deputy pilots and experienced AFF crews, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.
• Demonstrate exceptional communication skills and collaborate effectively within a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Skills and Experience 

• Practical experience and expertise in the application of aviation safety standards and safe operating practices; 
  1. comprehensive knowledge of: 
  2. the applicable safety regulations and any associated requirements and procedures; 
  3. the CU's operations specifications; and 
  4. the need for, and content of, the relevant parts of the CU’s operations manual;
• Familiarity with MSs preferably in the area of aviation; 
• Appropriate management experience, preferably in a comparable organisation; and 
• 5 years of relevant work experience of which at least 2 years should be from the aeronautical industry in an appropriate position.
• Extensive flying experience with multi-engine aircraft in an aerial firefighting capacity (>300 hours). 
  1. At least 200 hours of this must be in water or retardant application missions.
• FAA or EASA license, complemented by DHC-8-400 AFF experience preferred.
• Current DHC-8 300 line training captain is highly desired.
• Alternately, experience in AFF on another aircraft type (e.g. CL415, C-130, Bae-146/RJ, etc.) combined with DHC-8 300 experience will be considered.

• Previous experience (three of the last six years) in an Assistant Chief Pilot or Training Pilot position of an organization with at least ten pilots is highly desirable.

• Must be capable of receiving a Canadian Foreign License Validation Certificate.
• Exceptional proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory.
• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills in ambiguous situations.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment with limited supervision.

Our Culture 

Metrea’s single core value “rooted in humility” is supported by four key attributes; entrepreneurial, systematic, discerning & over-deliver which combined; form our Teammate Firmware, our culture. These attributes are explored during the hiring process, when we grow our teams and to continually support the growth of our culture. We are a hyper-collaborative, dynamically hierarchical organization united by a passion for what we do, and how we do it, who we do it with, and who we do it for

Benefits

Health and welfare

Retirement plan eligibility

Work Authorization / Security Clearance
As required 

AAP/EEO Statement
Metrea Aerial Effects LLC (MAFF) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position with daily working hours varying.  Hours and work shifts may vary in accordance with business needs.   Non-Exempt employees may be required to work over 40 hours per week with approval from the department manager.  

Travel

This position requires extensive travel, both domestic and international.

Work Location

Remote (reports to MAFF)

Work Environment
Aircraft

Physical Demands 

This is a largely sedentary role; however, some physical abilities may be required  

Reasonable Accommodations Statement
To perform this role successfully, an individual must be able to perform the responsibilities outlined in this job description to a satisfactory standard. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with additional needs to perform the essential functions.
 
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The role, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.