All costs associated with travel to Slave Lake for the start of the contract and return travel at the end of the contract are the sole responsibility of the Contractor

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and operationally disciplined Aerial Systems Operator

to join the Skyward Wildfire team for the upcoming summer fire season. This individual will play a crucial role on board our aircraft, flying alongside two pilots on every mission to execute the world’s first lightning suppression flights.

This is a hands-on role designed for someone who thrives in high-tempo, high-stakes environments. You will be responsible for the in-flight deployment of specialized suppression materials, as well as supporting ground logistics, aircraft loading, and system readiness. You must bring strong situational awareness, a safety-first mindset, and a "can-do" attitude to both air and ground tasks.

Key Responsibilities

In-Flight Operational Support

• Mission Execution:

  Prepare, handle, and deploy lightning suppression materials during flight, strictly adhering to mission parameters and pilot commands and standard operating procedures.

• Safety & Communication:

  Maintain real-time communication with the flight crew to ensure safe execution in dynamic weather conditions.

• Data Integrity:

  Ensure accurate tracking of materials used and log all deployment data post-flight (quantities, timing, and observed outcomes).

Ground Operations

• Logistics:

  Safely load and unload cargo and hazardous materials into the aircraft.

• Readiness:

  Conduct pre-flight and post-flight checks on suppression systems and onboard gear.

• Coordination:

  Maintain communication with the ground team to ensure the aircraft is restocked and mission-ready at all times.

Qualifications

• Experience:

  Prior experience in field operations, aviation, emergency services, and bilingualism is highly preferred.

• Resilience:

  Comfortable operating in high-stakes, turbulent flight environments (no history of motion sickness).

• Physical:

  Capable of lifting 50 lbs overhead and working in confined aircraft spaces.

• Soft Skills:

  Strong teamwork and communication skills; able to follow a strict chain of command.

• Availability:

  Willingness to be on call 7 days a week for the duration of the contract. Shifts may require early morning starts, late evenings, or nights.

• Response Time:

  Must be able to respond to the Slave Lake Airport in 30 minutes during the duration of the contract, unless it’s a no-fly day.

What We Offer

• Impact:

  A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of the world’s first flights to stop lightning.

• Innovation:

  Work at the intersection of aviation, science, and wildfire prevention.

• Compensation:

• Weekly Minimum:

  A $500/week floor

  . This would only trigger if work hours fall below 18.5 hours in a week.

• Hourly Rate:

  $27/hour

• Accommodation:

  Possible shared accommodation provided if not local to Slave Lake, AB

• Cancellation/No-Fly Pay:

• Notice < 24 hours: 4 hours pay ($108)

• Notice 24–48 hours: 2 hours pay ($54)