Description:

First Officer

This may also be for you if you are a seasoned and safety-minded pilot whose career is looking to the next rung on the ladder. At Air Canada, we are looking for an experienced and talented person to join our ranks as First Officer - Pilot. This is an exciting opportunity to join a top aviation company known for professionalism, teamwork, and a strong focus on passenger safety and satisfaction.

In the role of First Officer, you will support the captain in the safe and efficient operation of commercial flights by acting in accordance with all applicable regulatory requirements. Up to October 2023, you are responsible for working with your team to provide the best travel experience by ensuring that you perform to the highest standards of flight operations, safety and service to our passengers.

Key Responsibilities:

As a First Officer, your main job is to help make sure the flight is safe, smooth, and runs well. Here are some of the key things you’ll do:

Assist the Captain during all stages of the flight
Fly the aircraft following standard operating rules
Keep an eye on aircraft systems and report any issues
Talk with air traffic control
Do pre-flight checks and inspections
Calculate fuel loads, weight balance, and flight paths
Help passengers and cabin crew in case of emergencies

While the Captain makes the final decisions, the First Officer plays an important role too. Both pilots work together as a team.

Qualifications & Requirements:

Current Transport Canada Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL)
1,500 flight hours (or as mandated by the airline).
Multi-Engine Instrument Rating (ME-IR) and Class 1 Medical.
English Language Proficient (ICAO Level 4 or greater).
Knowledgeable about aviation regulations, safety procedures, and emergency protocols
Good capability to demonstrate critical reasoning and to give solutions.
Excellent teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.
Comfortable working within a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Ability to work any shift, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Career Growth and Salary

How Much Does a First Officer Earn in Canada?

Salaries for First Officers in Canada vary based on experience, company, and aircraft type:

Regional Airlines: $45,000–$75,000 CAD per year
Major Airlines: $70,000–$120,000 CAD+ per year
Cargo or Private Jet Pilots: Often $80,000–$150,000 CAD+

First-year pay may be lower, but it rises quickly with experience and flight hours.

Career Path

First Officers often stay in that role for 2–5 years before being promoted to Captain. Some pilots move on to train new recruits, manage flight operations, or fly international long-haul routes

Preferred Qualifications:

Fly Boeing, Airbus, or Bombardier planes
Preferred – Type rating on commercial aircraft
Previous employment as a commercial airline First Officer
Strong customer service skills and professional appearance.

First Officer – Pilot Jobs Canada