First Officer Job in Canada

About the Job

It’s an excellent and rewarding career choice, if flying at high altitudes over the Canadian skies is your dream. In your First Officer role, you will be the Captain’s assistant in aircraft operations thus making sure the flight is safe, calm, and efficient. If you are a pilot who is willing to gain more experience, flight hours, and be promoted to the rank of Captain, then this is the right job for you.

There are First Officer positions available at Canadian airlines, charter operators, and regional carriers for which they are always on the lookout for candidates who are skilled and professional. The position is a great step toward a solid career in aviation and the right path to take, whether you fly domestically or internationally.

Job Title: First Officer

Location: Across Canada
Job Type: Full-time
Industry: Aviation / Airline Operations
Salary Range: CAD $65,000 – $150,000 per year (based on experience and airline)
Experience Level: Low to mid-hour pilots (typically 250–1500 flight hours)

Key Responsibilities

First Officers in Canada are required to carry out the role of supporting the Captain in the safe operation of flights by the company and regulatory standards.

Among other tasks, you will be:

• Helping the Captain prepare the flight by checking the weather and planning the route.
• Carefully inspecting the aircraft before and after every flight.
• Keeping an eye on the aircraft systems, navigation, and communication while flying.
• Handling checklists and making sure safety measures are followed.
• Communicating with air traffic control and keeping records with their support.
• Making sure both passengers and crew are safe as well as comfortable during the trip.
• Quickly dealing with any situations or system alerts that occur in-flight.
• Ensuring professional and clear communication with the Captain and the rest of the crew.
• Participating in post-flight reports and suggesting ways to improve the operational efficiency.

The role is also tightly bound with excellent concentration, cooperation, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Required Qualifications

To qualify for a First Officer job in Canada, you need a combination of education, flight training, and certification. Canadian airlines follow strict aviation standards set by Transport Canada.

Basic requirements include:

• Valid Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL).
• Minimum multi-engine rating and instrument rating (Group 1).
• Valid Category 1 Medical Certificate from Transport Canada.
• Minimum flight hours as required by the employer (typically 250–1500 hours).
• Fluency in English (French is an asset for bilingual regions).
• Legal authorization to work in Canada.

Preferred qualifications:

• University degree or college diploma in Aviation or Aeronautics.
• Experience with glass cockpit and advanced avionics.
• Jet or turbine aircraft experience.
• Knowledge of Canadian Air Regulations (CARs) and ICAO procedures.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.

Work Environment

A First Officer in Canada can work for a variety of airlines, from regional operators to major international carriers. Your schedule will include irregular hours, including weekends and holidays, depending on flight routes.

You may fly within Canada or internationally, depending on the airline’s network. The job involves both long-haul and short-haul flights, with time spent both in-flight and during ground preparation.

Expect to travel frequently and adapt to different weather conditions, airport environments, and time zones. Safety, focus, and professionalism are key parts of your daily routine.

Skills and Competencies

Successful First Officers combine strong technical expertise with excellent interpersonal skills. You’ll need to make quick decisions and work closely with your Captain and crew.

Important skills include:

• Strong knowledge of aircraft systems and operations.
• Excellent communication and coordination skills.
• Fast and accurate decision-making in challenging situations.
• Attention to detail and situational awareness.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration with other crew members.
• Ability to manage stress during long flights or emergencies.
• Strong problem-solving and technical analysis skills.
• Professionalism and commitment to aviation safety.

Why Choose a First Officer Career in Canada?

Canada offers incredible opportunities for pilots at all experience levels. The aviation industry continues to grow, with airlines expanding their fleets and routes.

Top reasons to become a First Officer in Canada:

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Access to modern aircraft and advanced flight technology.
• Excellent training and mentorship programs.
• Opportunities for rapid career growth to Captain positions.
• Diverse flying environments, from arctic regions to urban hubs.
• Stable job demand due to pilot retirements and fleet expansion.

Many Canadian pilots start as First Officers and progress to Captains within a few years, depending on performance and flight hours.

Top Airlines Hiring First Officers in Canada

Many well-known airlines and regional operators frequently hire qualified pilots for First Officer positions.

Leading employers include:

• Air Canada

• WestJet

• Porter Airlines

• Jazz Aviation

• Air Transat

• PAL Airlines

• Bearskin Airlines

• Pacific Coastal Airlines

• Sunwing Airlines

• Canadian North

These companies offer strong career development programs, structured upgrade paths, and excellent work-life balance opportunities.

Average Salary for First Officer Jobs in Canada

The salary for a First Officer in Canada depends on experience, aircraft type, and employer.

• Entry-level pilots (250–1000 hours): CAD $65,000–$85,000 per year

• Mid-level pilots (1000–2500 hours): CAD $85,000–$120,000 per year

• Experienced First Officers (2500+ hours): CAD $120,000–$150,000+ per year

Many airlines also provide additional benefits, such as flight discounts, health insurance, retirement plans, and per diem allowances.

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