Director, Engineering and Technical Services

Employment Type: Full-time Regular

City: Calgary, AB (YYC)

Posting Open Date: 11/08/2024

Posting Close Date: 11/22/2024 (Please note the posting will close at 11:59pm MST)

Why WestJet:

Every WestJet journey has the potential to enrich lives; a career with us is no exception.

WestJet arrived on the Canadian airline scene in 1996 and changed the industry for the better. We made air travel more affordable for Canadians and now we're going global.

Join us and love where you're going.

Overview of role:

We are seeking a dedicated Director Engineering and Technical Services to oversee the aircraft reliability and compliance of our expanding WestJet Group fleet. The Director of Engineering and Technical Services leads the engineering and technical support functions for the airline's fleet, ensuring the highest levels of safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.

This role involves oversight of aircraft design modifications, maintenance program development, and technical support for maintenance activities. This leader provides guidance and mentorship to the team, and ensures critical projects get prompt attention and resources to ensure a timely and cost-effective execution. The person will work closely with regulatory authorities, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and internal stakeholders to ensure the fleet meets both regulatory and airline standards.

Key deliverables and responsibilities:

Technical Leadership and Team Development

• Oversee all engineering functions related to aircraft modifications, repairs, configuration & reliability.
• Lead a team of experts providing technical support for maintenance teams, including troubleshooting and rectification guidance for complex or recurrent issues.
• Develop and maintain the technical specifications and initiate process improvements that support the maintenance program; responsible for the timely, effective production of technical documentation and support resources.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of engineers and technical specialists, fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, set goals, and provide professional development opportunities for team members.

Compliance and Safety Assurance

• Ensure all engineering and technical services comply with applicable aviation regulations and internal safety standards.
• Manage airworthiness directives (ADs), service bulletins (SBs), and other OEM recommendations, evaluating their applicability and coordinating their implementation.
• Ensure all technical functions support the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO) requirements, guaranteeing safety and regulatory compliance.

Fleet Modifications and Improvements

• Lead the design and approval of fleet modifications, working with OEMs and other vendors to evaluate and implement system upgrades, structural modifications, and interior refurbishments.
• Ensure all modifications meet regulatory requirements, including obtaining necessary certifications or approvals.
• Develop strategies to enhance fleet performance, reliability, and passenger experience through innovative engineering solutions.
• Manage the overall configuration of the WestJet fleet, including lease returns for end-of-life (EOL) aircraft, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Maintenance Program Development

• Oversee the development and optimization of maintenance programs for each aircraft type, focusing on minimizing costs, maximizing efficiency, and ensuring operational reliability.
• Perform reliability analysis to identify trends and areas for improvement within the maintenance programs.
• Identify and implement best practices for maintenance processes and fleet management to enhance operational efficiency and safety.
• Oversee contracts and relationships with technical service providers, ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with airline standards.

Experience and qualifications:

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in aircraft engineering or technical services, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within an airline, MRO, or OEM environment.

Licenses and Certifications

• Professional engineering designation is preferred.
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance standards (TCCA, FAA, EASA) is required.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong analytical skills and the ability to lead complex technical projects.
• Experience with Lean thinking, root cause problem solving and kaizen facilitation is preferred.
• Proficiency in engineering software and maintenance management systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration and vendor management.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing large scale initiatives involving significant change management
• An individual of highest personal and professional integrity as demonstrated through strong personal values as well as consistent words and actions.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills, with a focus on developing talent within the team.

The benefits of being a WestJetter:

WestJet provides all WestJetters with a competitive total rewards package. On top of that, we offer:

• A fun and friendly culture with colleagues who work together to win
• Travel privileges for you and your family, effective from your start date
• Savings and Benefit programs that are flexible to meet your specific needs

Think we are a fit? Apply now!

About WestJet Group of Companies

Together with WestJet's regional airline, WestJet Encore, we offer scheduled service to more than 100 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean and Europe and to more than 175 destinations in over 20 countries through our airline partnerships.

Our Safety Promise

At WestJet, the safety and security of our people and our guests is a core value and at the heart of what we do. As safety and security is a shared responsibility, it is expected that you will use safe work practices to ensure your well-being and the safety of others.

WestJet recognizes that the use of Alcohol and Drugs can adversely impact a safe work environment and the well-being of others including guests, suppliers and the public, as well as place WestJet's operations at risk. All roles that are identified as safety sensitive are required to pass a Pre-Employment Alcohol and Drug Test as per WestJet's Alcohol and Drug Policy.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We embrace what makes us each unique, and what makes us uniquely WestJet. WestJet is committed to inclusiveness, equity, and accessibility and if you require accommodation during the selection process, please let our Talent Acquisition team know. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply. We thank all applicants for their interest in WestJet; however, only those candidates who are selected will be contacted.

For more information about everything WestJet, please visit WestJet.com.

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