Chief pilot

Expert Geophysics Surveys Inc. provides airborne geophysical surveys for mineral exploration projects worldwide. Headquartered in Newmarket, Ontario, we are seeking an experienced Chief Pilot to lead our medium-class remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) operations, with a focus on long-line external loads and low-risk beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) missions. The successful candidate will manage pilot development, maintain regulatory compliance, and support mission success on projects across Canada and abroad. This role requires strong expertise in Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) applications, Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) Part IX, and Advisory Circular AC 903-001, along with practical knowledge of SAIL level assessments, volume calculations, and long-line operations. Experience as a flight reviewer and RPAS trainer is highly valued. *Job Type:* This is a full-time role consisting of 40 hours per week. There is an existing vacancy for this position. *Employment Term:* This is a permanent position. *Work Location:* In person, based at our Newmarket, Ontario office, with regular travel to field operations across Canada and internationally. Accommodation is available for the travel and field requirements of this role. *Key Responsibilities:* · Lead and oversee all RPAS flight operations, including on-site surveys, pre-flight assessments, and mission execution, in compliance with Transport Canada regulations and internal protocols · Participate in field operations as needed, including serving as an airborne operator on missions involving external loads and low-risk BVLOS operations · Support the preparation and maintenance of RPAS Operator Certificates (RPOCs) and SFOCs, carry out risk assessments, and ensure alignment with CARs Part IX, relevant Advisory Circulars (e.g., AC 903-001), and operational approvals · Perform and validate SAIL level determinations, volume calculations, and risk documentation for mission planning · Maintain and develop the Operations Manual, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and mission planning procedures, with a focus on continuous improvement and operational safety · Manage and maintain accurate flight logs, training records, and maintenance documentation in accordance with regulatory and audit standards · Guide the professional development of RPAS pilots and ensure their training, certifications, and competencies remain current · Serve as a Flight Reviewer and contribute to internal training initiatives that promote knowledge sharing and team growth · Collaborate with engineering, operations, and safety teams to optimize workflows and field performance *Qualifications* · Minimum 3 years of experience operating medium RPAS platforms, including BVLOS and SFOC operations, or minimum 5 years of experience operating small RPAS platforms, including BVLOS and SFOC operations · Advanced or Level 1 Complex RPAS Pilot Certificate issued by Transport Canada · Applied knowledge of SAIL assessments, risk-based mission planning, and regulatory documentation · Strong organizational and communication skills, with an emphasis on training oversight and procedural consistency · Willingness to travel to field operations in Canada and internationally, and to adapt to changing field and regulatory environments · Willingness to learn, adapt, and bring your expertise into our existing operational framework · Legally entitled to work in Canada *Preferred Qualifications* · Licensed Flight Reviewer certification, with the ability to train and certify other pilots in line with regulatory standards · Valid Restricted Operator Certificate with Aeronautical Qualification (ROC-A) · Current First Aid certification · FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, or willingness to obtain one, for U.S. operations · Proficiency in additional languages to support international operations · Manned aviation experience, whether private or commercial *Compensation* This position offers a