Sensor Operator - Force Multiplier

Force Multiplier (FM) is an on-demand intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) division located in Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, Canada. FM aircraft are modified, maintained, owned, and operated by PAL Aerospace, a leader in international aerospace and defence design, development, and operation of airborne surveillance aircraft, heavy maintenance checks, and software applications. PAL Aerospace is driven by technology and is proud to be a pioneer of industry-leading innovations in airborne special missions.

As an FM crewmember, Sensor Operators (SO) join a world-class team, operating advanced electronic sensor systems, aboard long- and medium-range surveillance aircraft. FM crews maintain continual readiness to operate in Canada and around the world.

Who Am I?

Job Description:
PAL Aerospace is seeking qualified, experienced, and enthusiastic applicants for a Sensor Operator (SO) position on our Force Multiplier (FM) Team. Entry-level responsibilities include the tactical operation of Radar and EO/IR sensor systems in the airborne environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining a tactical radar picture, in-flight planning, terrain and weather avoidance, and operation of electro-optic/ infrared (EO/IR) sensor systems to detect and identify maritime, air, and land-based contacts, recording all information acquired during airborne surveillance operations.

Flying as rotational crew aboard our DHC-8 and B200T special-mission aircraft, individuals must be able to work independently, as well as part of our motivated, close-knit, group of professionals; working together to deliver mission outputs required by our military, government, and civilian clients.

In addition to the tactical employment of onboard sensors systems, SOs in this role are often called upon to maintain safety-of-flight when operating IMC, often at low altitude, in the maritime environment.

Responsibilities:
Duties and responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Operate sensor equipment such as airborne radar and electro-optic/ infrared (EO/IR) imaging equipment to identify airborne, maritime, and land-based contacts
  • Ensure safety of flight by providing land- and weather-avoidance instructions to the flying pilot, when operating IMC, below MSA
  • Maintain a tactical operating picture using a variety of mission management systems and equipment configurations
  • Maintain a timely and accurate record of the location, distribution, and identification of detected targets
• TACCO duties:
  • Conducting pre-flight planning and brief crew and client on mission requirements and constraints.
  • Monitoring, understanding, and communicating the capabilities and limitations of the sensors and mission systems.
  • Assisting with pre-flight preparations, ensuring mission equipment is correctly configured.
  • In-flight planning and coordination, based on inclement weather and detected target disposition.
  • Record, annotate, and disseminate all information products during flight surveillance missions.
  • Participating in post-flight debriefings and reporting duties.
  • Duties assigned in the main Joint Command Center to relay mission taskings

Additionally, SOs may be called upon to support flight operations from the Force Multiplier Ground Support Unit (FM-GSU), as well as supporting systems integrators with aircraft configuration and modifications. Candidates with formal sensor operator training, mission command experience, and strong technical background are highly valued on our team.

Qualified candidates may be offered the unique opportunity to travel to and from the aircraft base of operations, without the requirement to permanently relocate. PAL Aerospace prides itself on being a pioneer in innovation and is looking for qualified, like-minded, adventure-seeking crew to join our growing team.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Experience operating mission management systems in the airborne environment.
• Minimum of 4-years experience operating airborne multi-mode radar systems.
• Minimum of 4-years experience as a TACCO or special missions commander
• Minimum of 2-years experience operating EO/IR equipment.
• Knowledge of airborne surveillance, tactical navigation, and communications.
• Experience in anti-surface warfare (ASuW), counter-narcotics, and search and rescue is considered an asset.
• Experience operating HF, UHF, and VHF radios and satellite voice and data communication systems.
• Must be able to obtain required security clearances.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Candidates with previous military experience will be given priority.
• Excellent CRM with experience in a multi-crew environment is preferred.
• Experience on Dash-8 aircraft is considered an asset.
• Experience collaborating with international clients is considered an asset.
• Previous ISR, flight test, and instructor/ evaluator experience.
• Effective written and verbal communications skills are a benefit.
• Proficient in the use of various computer systems and programs.
• Proficient with Microsoft Windows OS and baseline Microsoft Office products.
• Holds a valid drivers license.

Physical Working Environment:

• Able to work in an aircraft cabin environment, flying 4-6-hour missions in our smaller B200T surveillance aircraft, with 8-9-hour missions in our larger DHC-8 platforms.
• Travel with the aircraft on a rotational basis for extended rotations domestically and internationally; sometimes at short notice; operating in all weather, seasons, and terrain.
• Accommodation ranges from hotel accommodation to crew-house environments.
• Work during early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays during On Duty periods.
• Able to meet medical testing requirements.
• Able to swim and complete Underwater Egress Training.

Benefits:

• Excellent work/ life balance
• Competitive base salary
• Personal travel privileges with PAL and interline agreements with multiple airlines
• Industry discounts
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Defined Contribution Pension Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Employee Tuition Assistance Program
• Employee and Family Assistance Programs

PAL Aerospace is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment that celebrates and encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion whereby individuals are recognized, supported, and respected. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Thank you.

#PALAerospace