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WestJet arrived on the Canadian airline scene in 1996 and changed the industry for the better. We made air travel more affordable for Canadians and now were going global.
Join us and love where you’re going.
Overview of role:
The Director of Line Maintenance is responsible for overseeing the daily maintenance operations, ensuring the fleet’s operational safety, reliability, and efficiency. In this role you will oversee 14 resource bases, managing a team of line maintenance managers, leads, Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and support staff to uphold the airlines commitment to high standards in safety and performance.
You will be accountable for leading the top CASM (Cost per Available Seat Mile) driver work group within Technical Operations. Additionally, this position will expand to include responsibility for international bases and supply chain operations, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency across all areas.
Key deliverables and responsibilities:
Operational Leadership
- Manage all line maintenance activities to ensure optimal fleet availability and minimize operational disruptions.
- Select, prioritize, develop and implement business initiatives for continuous improvement in accordance with the Technical Operations Leadership Team priorities and corporate standards.
- Ensure timely and efficient response to unplanned maintenance events, coordinating resources as necessary to minimize aircraft downtime.
- Partner with the Vice President of Technical Operations to ensure adherence to all business process workflows using the computerized maintenance system (eMRO)
- Oversee the stores function within the supply chain to ensure the availability or parts and materials necessary for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers.
Compliance and Safety
- Ensure compliance with all aviation regulations, including Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), and other relevant international regulatory bodies.
- Establish, monitor, and enforce safety protocols and maintenance best practices per our regulatory, airline standards and our safety management system.
- Collaborate with the Quality Assurance team to address audit findings, implement corrective actions, and maintain regulatory compliance.
Team Development and Leadership
- Conduct regular performance reviews and set measurable goals for employees aligned with organizational objectives.
- Oversee recruitment and development programs to ensure the team is equipped with the skills required for evolving maintenance needs.
- Coordinate with the Director – Safety & QA regarding scheduled training of company regulatory requirements.
Budgeting and Cost Management
- Develop and manage the line maintenance budget, including staffing, equipment, and other resources.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising safety or service quality.
- Collaborate with procurement to manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure cost-effective sourcing of maintenance parts and services.
- Implement and support initiatives to enhance maintenance processes, reduce aircraft turnaround time, and improve on-time performance.
- Stay updated on industry best practices and technological advancements to continuously improve maintenance capabilities.
Stakeholder Collaboration
- Foster an effective working relationship with the union representation supporting the Aircraft Maintenance Engineers.
- Coordinate with other departments, such as Maintenance Operations Control, Flight Operations, Safety, Quality Assurance, and Planning, to align maintenance activities with broader organizational goals.
- Act as a liaison between line maintenance and other teams to ensure seamless communication and operational continuity.
- Participate in cross-departmental projects and initiatives that support overall airline performance and strategic growth.
Experience and qualifications:
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Maintenance, Engineering, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of 8 years of experience in aircraft maintenance, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within an airline or MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) environment.
Licenses and Certifications
- Possession of a valid Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) is preferred.
- Knowledge of regulatory compliance standards (TCCA, FAA, etc.) is required.
- PRM capabilities are preferred.
Skills and Abilities
- Strong leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse workforce.
- Experience with Lean thinking, root cause problem solving and kaizen facilitation is preferred.
- Strong interpersonal skills and excellent communication skills.
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making capabilities, particularly in high-stress situations.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
- Proficiency in maintenance management systems and software.
Working Conditions:
- The role will be based in Calgary (Main WestJet Campus). The director might need to adjust their working hrs from time to time to support their shift-based teams and to provide 24/7 operational coverage as necessary.
- Frequent travel to outstations or other operational hubs may be required.
- Role includes working in a fast-paced environment with the potential for high-stress decisions.
The benefits of being a WestJetter:
WestJet provides all WestJetters with a competitive total rewards package. On top of that, we offer:
- A fun and friendly culture with colleagues who work together to win
- Travel privileges for you and your family, effective from your start date
- Savings and Benefit programs that are flexible to meet your specific needs
Think we are a fit? Apply now!
About WestJet Group of Companies
Together with WestJets regional airline, WestJet Encore, we offer scheduled service to more than 100 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean and Europe and to more than 175 destinations in over 20 countries through our airline partnerships.
Our Safety Promise
At WestJet, the safety and security of our people and our guests is a core value and at the heart of what we do. As safety and security is a shared responsibility, it is expected that you will use safe work practices to ensure your well-being and the safety of others.
WestJet recognizes that the use of Alcohol and Drugs can adversely impact a safe work environment and the well-being of others including guests, suppliers and the public, as well as place WestJets operations at risk. All roles that are identified as safety sensitive are required to pass a Pre-Employment Alcohol and Drug Test as per WestJets Alcohol and Drug Policy.
Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
We embrace what makes us each unique, and what makes us uniquely WestJet. WestJet is committed to inclusiveness, equity, and accessibility and if you require accommodation during the selection process, please let our Talent Acquisition team know. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply. We thank all applicants for their interest in WestJet; however, only those candidates who are selected will be contacted.
For more information about everything WestJet, please visit WestJet.com.
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