Looking for a meaningful, well-paid job that doesn’t require a university degree? NAV Canada, the organization responsible for guiding pilots through Canadian airspace, is currently hiring Flight Service Specialists for its Airport Advisory Services (AAS) — and you don’t need any prior experience to apply.
Despite the title of “specialist,” the role is accessible to those without a background in aviation. After completing paid training in Montreal, you’ll earn between $75,483 and $118,953 per year.
Related: VIA Rail is hiring 100 service agents at $27.45/hour with just a high school diploma
So whether you’re thinking about a career change or looking for a more fulfilling job, this could be your chance to take off in a new direction.
The Job, the Training, and the Pay
As a Flight Service Specialist – Airport Advisory Services (AAS), your job is to provide vital information to pilots — including weather conditions, runway updates, and ground traffic coordination. This is a key role in ensuring aviation safety and requires strong communication skills in both French and English.
You’ll need to complete a paid training program, mainly offered at the regional control center in Montreal, near Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport. The initial training lasts 5 to 6 months and includes classroom sessions and simulator training. After that, you’ll go through 3 to 5 months of on-the-job integration at one of several locations: Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Mont-Joli, Rouyn, Sept-Îles, Val-d’Or, Kuujjuaq, or La Grande.
The training salary is $46,862, and if you need to relocate for the course, you may be eligible for a biweekly living allowance.
Once certified, that’s where things really take off — your salary jumps to between $75,483 and $118,953 annually. If you’re assigned to a remote area, you’ll also receive a relocation bonus of $3,000 to $7,000, on top of your base salary.
For positions in Kuujjuaq or La Grande (accessible only by air), the work schedule is a bit different — for example, 14 days on-site followed by 14 days off. NAV Canada will cover your travel expenses for these shifts.
What You Need to Apply
NAV Canada is looking for motivated, bilingual individuals with strong communication and multitasking skills. Here are the basic eligibility requirements:
- Be 18 years or older
- Hold a high school diploma (or equivalent)
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Be bilingual in French and English
- Be willing to undergo several assessments: cognitive test, language test, medical exam, drug screening, and a security clearance
- Be available to begin training once selected
- Be ready to relocate depending on operational needs
You can find more details and apply directly on NAV Canada’s website. Who knows? This job in aviation might just be your ticket to an exciting new career — and a solid paycheck.
