Conair is the world’s largest privately owned fixed‑wing aerial firefighting company, operating a fleet of 80 specialized aircraft. For over 50 years, we’ve partnered with government agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia and France to protect communities and wildland. We are aerospace engineering innovators, maintenance experts, and seasoned operators — united by a culture of teamwork, people, safety and service.
The Role
As an Airtanker Captain, you’ll lead fixed‑wing firefighting missions during the fire season, executing exact low‑level operations in demanding environments. You’ll coordinate closely with air attack officers and ground crews, deliver accurate retardant and water drops, and uphold our rigorous safety and SOP standards while representing Conair on domestic and international assignments.
- Operate Conair’s specialized airtanker types with professionalism and airmanship under dynamic fire conditions.
- Plan and brief missions, manage fuel and payload, and adapt tactics to terrain, weather and airspace constraints.
- Execute low‑level operations in mountainous terrain while maintaining terrain and obstacle clearance standards.
- Collaborate with multi‑agency teams; conduct detailed debriefs and contribute to continuous improvement.
- Maintain currency and proficiency through company training, evaluation flights and seasonal readiness programs.
What You Bring
- Pilot Experience
- Total time: 2,000+ hours
- Pilot‑in‑Command: 1,000+ hours
- Mountainous terrain: 250+ hours
- Currency: Recent flying experience within the last 12 months
- Licensing & Medical
- License required: ATPL — TCCA
- Medical: Class 1
- Language: ICAO English Language Proficiency Level 4
- Type rating: Not required — comprehensive training provided
- Specialized Backgrounds (role‑dependent)
- For seaplane roles: Seaplane PIC: 500 hours in a commercial operation
- For tailwheel roles: Tailwheel time: 200 hours on certified tailwheel aircraft
- Eligibility
- Residency: Commit to residing in Canada during the fire season
- Travel documents: Valid Canadian Driver’s Licence and Passport
- Mobility: Ability to obtain necessary work visas for international firefighting assignments
Why Conair
- Fly with an industry leader recognized for service excellence and operational expertise.
- Operate purpose‑built and expertly maintained airtankers — the result of decades of in‑house engineering and MRO capability.
- Be part of a mission‑driven team culture focused on people, safety and protecting communities from wildfires.
- Seasonal opportunities with potential for recurring assignments in Canada and abroad.