Hey everyone!

Just wanted to come on and ask for some advice as to where a newly licensed Commercial Multi-IFR (aka “250 hour wonder”) could go to look for that first job. I have read every post in the database on job hunting, so I’m fairly well-versed with the types of responses I’m going to get – however, I’m just looking for any new information that someone may be able to pass along.

I understand the industry is looking a little bleak at the moment – but I’m not too concerned as I’m in this for the long-haul. Hopefully for everyone’s sake we’ll see some more hiring like we have in the past couple of months.

I’m hoping some of you on the forum may be able to answer a few questions:

1) Is it worth applying for a job which I know I’m probably not qualified for? Should I even send a resume to SkyService or Sunwest Home to fly their Lear’s, or is it just going to piss off the poor lady/chief pilot who has to sort through the resumes? If I were to do this (apply to companies I’m clearly not qualified for yet), I would only target one or two (i.e. SkyService and Sunwest Home) that I would really like to fly for some day – in order to get something on file. Comments?

2) What is going on at companies that have been known to hire low-timers in the past (i.e. CMA, Perimeter)? How do I get the attention of these sort of companies?

3) If I were to do a road-trip, where and when should I go? The next several weeks, or is it still too early? Anyone have suggestions of places to stop in Ontario and Manitoba? I’ll go anywhere, and fly anything.

Basically what I’m looking for is any sort of suggestions, help, advice, tips, anything!

Thanks for your time! Much appreciated!

I was in your shoes a few years ago, the best piece of advice I can give is “do your research on your targeted companies first”. Focus up north or in some hick towns, find a ramp job that leads into a flying position. Most of the time you have to prove your self worth in hard labor first before they let fly. Start your road trip NOW, just hope your not to late.

As for Sun West Homes and CMA, I would say that you’re wasting your time!

Get yourself a real job that pays

Brilliant post Niko. Thanks for helping out...

I was expecting to get a lot of advice like that.

Whatever you do, DO NOT WORK FOR FREE!!!!

Hey there, well I would say that you are probably wasting your time with sunwest and skyservice, although it doesn't hurt to start a file with them, as long as you aren't holding out for them, as their requirements are above the 250 mark...I would think it is perfect time for a road trip, waiting any longer might be too much. Biggest thing I would say is be honest and up front with people, and keep your spirits up, no matter what happens with the industry, and especially when you get in a bitch session with other pilots over a few beers...those tend to bring you down, and it will show in your attitude. If you are positive, honest, and a genuinely hard worker, you will have no problem. As far as sunwest, I know they have pretty high time requirements, and PPC requirements, although they did hire some lower time people to work the desk first a while back, but it is my understanding that that is finished now.

Good luck!

You have to put yourself where lowtimers get hired. I would road trip to a few high percentage areas (yellowknife thompson etc) and pick one where you like it best and stay there. Sure its tough but companies who hire low timers to ramp just need a warm body. If you are there, it can be you. They usually cannot wait 2 weeks while someone gets there act together t5hen comes up.
Good things happens to those whi help themselves.

good luck

Moving...
I would certinally bug CMA. They are known to hire low timers and do so on a semi regular basis. Call them and see what they require. If there is a ramp position jump on it. I belive they now require 500 hours though but I may be wrong. As for sunwest - I wouldn't bother. You need time on type, current PPC's and an internal reference to get in there. then again one never knows.....

I would actually steer clear of places like thompson - there too full of wannabe's. Go to norman wells or inuvik or some little town in NW ONT that has a float plane, a liquor store, and nothing else.
Go to your local Jump Zone and see if they need a jump pilot.
Give flight instructing a shot if you think you'd enjoy it. I did and had a blast.

It's a good time to bug the float opperators - they are now thinking of hiring for the dock.

Keep a positive attitude, and a willingness to go wherever and you'll do alright.

Goodluck.

Alta Flights is looking for a rampie/dispatcher in Calgary. Give 'em a shout. Info is in the Job Forum.