Chief of Dispatch

The Alberta College of Aeronautics (ACA) is an accredited post-secondary institution and Flight Training Unit with a strong focus on collegiate-level aviation education. ACA operates a modern fleet of Diamond aircraft, including DA20s and a DA42, along with two ALSIM simulators and classic Cessna 172 trainers.

We are proud to offer the Integrated Airline Transport Pilot Licence (iATPL) program, delivered through two semester intakes each year—January and September.

Our commitment to safety, professionalism, and student success drives our mission to provide exceptional training, service, and support throughout each student's academic and flight journey.

See details and requirements below:
**Position Summary**:
Full-time Supervisory role - Dispatch

The Chief of Dispatch (COD) is primarily responsible for the supervision, scheduling, delegation, and training of dispatch personnel within the flight operations team. The COD reports directly to the authority of the Chief Flight Instructor (CFI), by assisting with the direction and leading of our experienced team members, to safely and efficiently conduct flight operations at ACA. In addition, the COD functions as an essential bridge for communications, coordination and teamwork for the vision and goals established by the CFI / ACA management, and our dispatch team. As our organization grows and evolves, many improvements, changes or additions can occur. The COD works closely with the CFI to ensure these communications reach our team, in addition to mentoring and training our team members to excel in their roles as dispatchers at ACA.

In addition, the Chief of Dispatch may often resolve disputes, disruptions within the flight operations team, address and assist in the resolution of safety concerns, training updates, host quarterly meetings with dispatch team members, and ensure compliance and adherence to the ACA flight operations manual, CARS regulations, and expectations set forth by ACA.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- **Safety mindset**:A strong safety mindset, with operational knowledge of OH&S regulations is considered a key asset. As a leader within our flight ops team, safety concerns and resolutions will reside within the COD’s role. As many hazards evolve and develop throughout operations within dispatch, the COD should be ready and willing to eliminate, replace or mitigate hazards within the workplace. Participation in monthly safety meetings, addressing concerns with the team, and proposing solutions is a key responsibility.
- **Crew Scheduling**:Our team can vary in size from 10 to 12 individuals throughout the school year. We operate 365 days a year, 7 days a week, with some statutory holidays off. The COD is primarily responsible for the scheduling of all dispatch staff members at ACA. Experience in crew scheduling is considered an asset.
- **Crew Training**: Training of dispatchers, updating training records, implementing or introducing new training items with the team, and periodic auditing is the responsibility of the COD. Good communication skills, and an understanding of safe work practices is considered an asset.
- **Record keeping and reporting**:All dispatch employee record keeping, daily flight records, and aircraft records are periodically reviewed by the COD. The COD is also responsible for conducting disciplinary or corrective action reviews, performance appraisals, and ensuring existing records are kept up to date or corrected.
- **Maintenance control items**:
The Chief of dispatch works closely with the Person Responsible for Maintenance Control (PRMC), within our maintenance department at ACA. Aircraft air time and calendar maintenance items are closely monitored by the PRMC and COD, to ensure dispatch operations are conducted efficiently, meeting maintenance targets as needed. The COD ensures these items are communicated with the dispatch team, to facilitate efficient maintenance cycles for our fleet of aircraft.
- **Communication**: Professional, clear and concise communication between departments and dispatch personnel is essential.

**Qualifications and Requirements**:

- **ROC-A (Restricted Radio Operator Certificate)**:A ROC-A is required for this position, due to the requirement to use radio communication with aircraft.
- **English language proficiency**:Frequent use of VHF radio, communicating in the English language.
- **Ability to multitask under pressure**:

- **1 - 2 years Supervisory experience**:Recommended but not required. Considered a strong asset.
- **Mobile Phone**:Must be able to receive calls, and respond to urgent concerns within the dispatch team.
- **Reliable transportation**:We are located at Cooking Lake Airport, 51401 Range Rd 221 #70, Sherwood Park, AB T8E 1H1. The drive to site is between 20 and 60 minutes outside of Edmonton, just off of highway 14, depending on where you reside. Reliable transportation is required, with appropriate seasonal tires being highly recommended.
- **Seasonal work attire**: A