Program Manager - Aerospace

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC) is a storied name in the aerospace industry, recognized worldwide for its pioneering contributions to aviation and its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. Headquartered in Calgary, AB, DHC currently has approximately 1,400 employees across British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, as well as in markets and distribution hubs world-wide.

Established in 1928, De Havilland Canada has a rich history marked by the development of some of the most iconic and versatile aircraft ever built. These aircraft have served a variety of roles—from bush flying to commercial aviation—and are celebrated for their rugged durability, operational versatility, and excellence in performance.

Over the decades, De Havilland Canada has evolved to meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. Today, we are more than just an aircraft manufacturer; we are a comprehensive aerospace company with capabilities that span design, production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Our operations are supported by a team of skilled engineers, technicians, and industry professionals who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.

Reporting to the Project Management Director, the Program Manager will programmatically oversee the development, production, and delivery of the DHC-6 Classic 300-G Twin Otter, as well as the DHC-515 Aerial Firefighting aircraft programs. The successful candidate will manage cross-functional teams, ensuring program goals, schedules, budgets, and quality standards are met. The role involves coordinating between various departments, including engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and external stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of all program phases from design to final delivery. This position will be located at our Calgary, AB office.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of the DHC-6 Classic 300-G Twin Otter, as well as the DHC-515 Aerial Firefighting aircraft programs, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives and strategic goals
• Manage program budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation to ensure that all financial targets and cost-control measures are met
• Develop and maintain detailed program schedules, monitor progress, and implement corrective actions as required to meet timelines
• Act as the primary point of contact between the program teams and the Director of Aircraft Programs, senior leadership, providing regular updates on program status, risks, and opportunities through an established governance process
• Identify potential risks early and develop mitigation strategies to ensure program objectives are not compromised
• Ensure all aircraft development and production processes meet industry standards and regulatory requirements, including TCCA, FAA, EASA, or other relevant certifications
• Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless coordination and efficient execution of program tasks
• Drive process improvements and best practices in project management methodologies and aircraft development, promoting a culture of continuous learning and innovation
• Represent De Havilland in a professional and courteous manner in every communication with all internal and external stakeholders
  
  
  

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, Business Administration, or a related field (master’s degree preferred)
• 7+ years of program management experience in the aerospace industry, with direct involvement in aircraft development or manufacturing
• Proven track record in managing complex programs from inception through completion, preferably with experience in commercial or defense aviation programs
• Strong understanding of aviation regulatory standards (TCCA, FAA, EASA) and aircraft certification processes
• Experience managing cross-functional teams and working in a matrix organization
• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a proven ability to build relationships and manage stakeholders at all levels
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and familiarity with ERP systems
  
  
  

Desired Skills:

• Familiarity with DHC-6 Classic 300-G Twin Otter, as well as the DHC-515 Aerial Firefighting aircraft, or experience with firefighting and special mission aircraft programs
• Knowledge of supply chain management in aerospace manufacturing
• Experience in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies
• Team oriented and work well in a collaborative environment
• PMP certification is highly desirable
• Proficient in the use of MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships and work effectively with people at all organizational levels
• Capability to maintain steady control and calm when facing challenges
• Ability to learn complex processes and to comply with them
• Critical thinker who can navigate complex, unclear situations
• Can connect concepts to tactical execution
• Willingness to hold individual's accountable inside and outside the organization and Metrics-focused
  
  
  

NOTE: This role will require occasional travel to suppliers, and company facilities, both domestically and internationally

At De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC), we are committed to protecting our people, customers, shareholders and the public through Health & Safety Excellence. As such, it is expected that all employees maintain strict adherence to Health & Safety Policies and to perform key physical tasks of the position described in the job description and interview process. This may include but is not limited to the ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions including temperature extremes, confined spaces, working at heights and with or around chemicals. Employees are expected to adhere to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when at work which must include but is not limited to the ability to maintain a positive fit test when mask use is required.

At De Havilland Canada, we aim to be inclusive and diverse and provide equal opportunity for employment. All qualified applicants, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability, are encouraged to apply. De Havilland will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise your Talent Acquisition representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

Any offer of employment is conditional on the completion of positive and satisfactory background checks, which may include, proof that you are legally entitled to work in Canada, professional references, verification of employment history, verification of educational background and criminal background checks.