Contract | Advanced RPAS Licence required | Remote field deployments
- This position requires Transport Canada Advanced RPAS Pilot Certificate
- This position is open to Calgary, Alberta-based applicants only. Relocation assistance is not provided.
- TUZO operates the AS350 B2 Astar for helicopter survey operations - sensor operator experience or interest is a strong asset.
- Graduates of the SAIT RPAS program are strongly encouraged to apply and will receive priority consideration.
ABOUT TUZO GEOSURVEYS
TUZO Geosurveys is a Calgary-based geophysical survey company specializing in mineral exploration, delivering high-resolution aerial data acquisition services to major and junior mining companies across Canada. Our programs support magnetometer, radiometric, VLF, LiDAR, and terrain mapping surveys across some of Canada's most remote and challenging environments.
TUZO operates the AS350 B2 Astar for helicopter-based survey operations, enabling us to deliver a broader range of projects across Canada.
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are seeking Calgary-based contract RPAS pilots and aerial survey technicians to join our growing field operations team. You will be deployed to remote survey areas across Canada to conduct precision geophysical data acquisition using drone platforms and, where applicable, as a sensor operator aboard the AS350 B2 Astar helicopter.
Contract assignments vary in duration. Candidates must be available for multi-day or multi-week rotational deployments to remote locations and comfortable working in a fast-paced, safety-critical field environment.
LICENCES & CERTIFICATION | FIELD REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED
- Transport Canada Advanced RPAS Pilot Certificate
- Current and valid RPAS operator documentation
- Ability to conduct pre-flight site surveys per CARS 901.27
- Based in Calgary, AB - no relocation provided
- Willingness to deploy to remote areas with limited infrastructure
- Comfort operating in varied terrain and weather conditions
- Ability to mobilize on short notice
- Valid driver's licence with a clean driver's abstract
ASSET
- First aid certification
- Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) - firearms licence
- Level One Complex operations experience or endorsement
- Prior helicopter sensor operator experience
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Conduct pre-flight planning, site surveys, and airspace assessments per CARS Part IX
- Operate RPAS platforms for geophysical data acquisition - magnetometry, radiometrics, VLF, LiDAR, and photogrammetry
- Serve as sensor operator aboard the AS350 B2 Astar helicopter during geophysical survey missions
- Monitor, configure, and troubleshoot geophysical sensor systems (magnetometer, radiometric, VLF) during flight
- Perform pre/post-flight equipment checks and maintain accurate flight logs and data records
- Execute operational risk assessments (ORA) and emergency procedures
- Coordinate with the pilot-in-command, ground crew, and project managers to meet survey objectives
- Adhere to Tuzo's Safety Management System and all applicable Transport Canada regulations
- Report safety occurrences promptly and accurately
QUALIFICATIONS
REQUIRED
- Transport Canada Advanced RPAS Pilot Certificate
- Strong understanding of Canadian airspace, NOTAM interpretation, and weather systems
- Demonstrated ability to operate independently in remote field environments
- Excellent situational awareness and safety-first mindset
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills - highly valued
STRONGLY CONSIDERED
- Graduate of the SAIT RPAS Pilot program
PREFERRED (NOT REQUIRED)
- Previous experience in aerial geophysical, survey, or resource sector operations
- Familiarity with survey-grade RPAS platforms (fixed-wing or multirotor)
- Experience with RTK GPS, LiDAR, magnetometer, radiometric, or VLF sensor payloads
- Knowledge of GCS software and mission planning tools
- Previous experience with UgCS ground control software is an asset
- Experience as a helicopter sensor operator or aerial survey technician
- Previous geophysical data handling or processing experience
- Familiarity with GIS software such as QGIS or ArcGIS
COMPENSATION & TERMS
- Competitive contract day rate - commensurate with experience and qualifications
- Field expenses, accommodation, and travel covered during deployment
- Contract structure with potential for repeat seasonal engagements
- Expanded scope available for candidates with helicopter sensor operator experience
Pay: $17.99-$36.99 per hour
Application question(s):
- Do you have current and valid RPAS operator documentation?
Licence/Certification:
- Transport Canada Advanced RPAS Pilot Certificate? (required)
Location:
Work Location: On the road
