Lead FTAS

Lead FTAS

Position Summary

The Lead FTAS is responsible for planning, coordinating, and leading the work of aircraft mechanics to ensure the airworthiness of Flight Test Vehicles (FTVs) owned and operated by DHC. This role ensures compliance with applicable Transport Canada regulations and company standards while overseeing maintenance activities, repairs, modifications, and scheduled preventive maintenance programs required to support flight test operations.

The Lead FTAS provides technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to maintenance personnel while ensuring all work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with approved procedures and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the daily activities of aircraft maintenance employees assigned to flight test operations.
• Ensure maintenance activities are performed and documented in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Aircraft Maintenance Manuals (AMMs), Structural Repair Manuals (SRMs), Service Bulletins (SBs), Airworthiness Directives (ADs), and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Monitor day-to-day work activities within the assigned area and communicate issues, concerns, and operational risks to leadership.
• Provide technical guidance, coaching, and expertise to team members to develop technical proficiency and resolve maintenance-related issues.
• Perform and document aircraft maintenance work in accordance with approved manuals, procedures, and regulations.
• Support mechanical and electrical removals, installations, modifications, and troubleshooting activities related to flight test aircraft.
• Ensure adherence to DHC General Work Requirements for factory, shop, and hangar environments.
• Promote and maintain compliance with environmental, health, and safety policies and procedures.
• Participate in and support 5S initiatives to promote workplace organization and continuous improvement.
• Ensure all assigned work is completed safely, accurately, and within established timelines.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Licensing

• Valid Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) Licence:
  • M2, or
  • B1/B2 equivalent certification.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of experience in a transport-category flight test environment preferred.
• Typically requires 2 to 3 years of experience working on DHC aircraft models.
• Proven experience leading maintenance teams in an aircraft maintenance, modification, or flight test environment.

Computer Skills

Intermediate proficiency in:

• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft PowerPoint

Certifications

• Additional aviation or maintenance-related certifications are considered an asset.

Preferred Qualifications / Success Factors

• Demonstrated leadership and team collaboration skills.
• Strong planning, organizational, and workload management abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize competing demands and manage time effectively.
• Engine Run and Taxi qualification on DHC aircraft preferred.
• Sound knowledge of Transport Canada regulations and aircraft maintenance practices.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.