CF-18 Operational Specialist (Pilot)

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Position overview

In this role, the CF-18 Operational Specialist (Pilot) will be responsible for providing technical, flight and operational expertise, guidance and oversight as part of the software development and testing activities and will act as Subject Matter Experts (SME) for the Systems Engineering Support Contract (SESC) team supporting the Courseware production. The successful candidate will join the team who provides the CF-18 Operational Community with system engineering support for the CF-18 Prime Mission Vehicle (PMV) Operational Flight Program (OFP) and training development in Mirabel, Quebec.

Description

• Provide technical, flight, and operational expertise, guidance, and oversight as part of software development and testing activities.

• Act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Systems Engineering Support Contract (SESC) team supporting courseware production.

• Support the CF‑18 Operational Community with systems engineering for the CF‑18 Prime Mission Vehicle (PMV) Operational Flight Program (OFP) and training development in Mirabel.

• Develop and review software change requirements in collaboration with the customer.

• Create and maintain test plans and develop verification and validation test procedures.

• Perform operational testing on avionics benches, integrated benches, full simulator, and actual aircraft; document and report anomalies.

• Review system test plans and develop/maintain training and mission scenario test plans.

• Use aircraft documentation to support software developers during integration activities.

• Test synthetic training devices to ensure design and regulatory requirements are met within budget and schedule constraints.

• Support customer during onsite acceptance testing activities.

• Develop training solutions for identified avionic systems.

• Develop standardized storyboard and lesson content with the Instructional System Designer.

• Support the courseware development process by ensuring content accuracy per the training plan, technical specifications, and procedures/checklists.

• Support the development of performance evaluations to validate student knowledge acquisition.

• Perform first‑level quality assurance on courseware outputs to ensure technical and procedural accuracy and proper presentation.

• Collaborate with the marketing team to provide inputs for potential customers and assist with bid and proposal estimates.

• Maintain military and aviation publications.

Minimum Qualifications

• Royal Canadian Air Force Pilot or equivalent (Fast Jet).

• Technical experience as a fighter pilot (SME).

• Strong computer aptitude and willingness to learn new software.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Strong organizational and time‑management abilities.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

• Excellent English communication skills (written and spoken).

• Ability to obtain and maintain Controlled Goods Clearance and Level II NATO Secret clearance.

• Legally permitted to work in Canada (Citizen, Permanent Resident, or valid Work Permit).

• Willingness to work onsite in Mirabel, QC.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor of Engineering or equivalent

• Aircrew instructor qualification (AIMB)

• Tactical Aviation experience

• Professional testing experience

• Experience as Standard Unit or Central Flying School member

• Qualified Tactics Instructor

• Flight or mission simulator experience

• Instructional experience (not required but considered an asset)

• Functional French ability

• Ideal profile: CF‑18 instructor or former CF‑18 pilot

Benefits

• Environment where initiatives are recognized and valued

• Flexible schedules

• Attractive employee benefits

About CAE

At CAE, our mission is clear: to help make the world a safer place. For nearly 80 years, we’ve driven innovation in simulation, training, and mission readiness to support critical operations worldwide. By leveraging advanced technologies, we empower our customers to operate smarter, faster, and more sustainably. Join a purpose-driven organization where bold ideas are encouraged, collaboration drives progress, and your growth fuels our shared success.

Position Type

Regular

Equal Opportunity & Accommodations

CAE is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants, regardless of race, nationality, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, neurodiversity, veteran status, age, or other characteristics protected by law. We encourage applicants who may not meet every qualification to apply. Reasonable accommodations are available—contact your recruiter or email CAECarrieres-Careers@cae.com if needed.

Data Privacy

Privacy Statement | CAE

As part of our process, we may use AI‑supported tools to help review applications, with human decision‑making at every step. CAE thanks all applicants for their interest. However, only those whose background and experience match the requirements of the role will be contacted.