First Float Job Advice

[Aspiring_Flyboy]

Hi All, I'm a low-time pilot (280tt) looking for my first aviation job.
My plan is to learn as much as I can about a bunch of float operators in northern Ontario and then take a road trip to meet them in person.

My main question is, What time of year should I make the trip February, March, April?
Are there any secondary skills (e.g., smart serve, hunting license, welding, etc.) I could learn to help me stand out?

What kind of questions will they have for me? What questions should I ask them?
Of course, any and all tips are greatly appreciated.

[C-FDPB]

I did the exact same thing to get my first float gig. Float operations usually start beginning of May or earlier or later depending on ice out. Some operators wont even be at location until maybe April some time. One thing you could do is look up upcoming outdoor sportshows and research what companies will be set up and you can show up and chat face to face with a resume in hand. Try and research what companies have a small floatplane that you can start on ie: 180, 185, 206, cub etc. Don't be discouraged about starting on the dock. Valuable lessons can be learned on the behind the scenes stuff that makes an operation work efficiently. Do you already possess a float rating? With these types of operations there is usually camp work involved like cutting grass, using a chainsaw, basic carpentry, electrical, solar, mechanical, propane and plumbing skills are all handy just to name a few. I possessed many of these skills when i started but learned a ton along the way as well. A hunting license is not necessary but coming from that background definitely helps. There will be long days, heavy lifting and your hands and clothes will most definitely get dirty. Have decent gear and definitely pick up a Leatherman or multi tool if you don't have one already. This tool will be used every single day. My recommendation is a Leatherman Wave. Northern Manitoba also has a few operators where you can get a start as well. If you have any more questions i'd be happy to help.
CHEERS
C-FDPB

[Aspiring_Flyboy]

I did the exact same thing to get my first float gig. Float operations usually start beginning of May or earlier or later depending on ice out. Some operators wont even be at location until maybe April some time. One thing you could do is look up upcoming outdoor sportshows and research what companies will be set up and you can show up and chat face to face with a resume in hand. Try and research what companies have a small floatplane that you can start on ie: 180, 185, 206, cub etc. Don't be discouraged about starting on the dock. Valuable lessons can be learned on the behind the scenes stuff that makes an operation work efficiently. Do you already possess a float rating? With these types of operations there is usually camp work involved like cutting grass, using a chainsaw, basic carpentry, electrical, solar, mechanical, propane and plumbing skills are all handy just to name a few. I possessed many of these skills when i started but learned a ton along the way as well. A hunting license is not necessary but coming from that background definitely helps. There will be long days, heavy lifting and your hands and clothes will most definitely get dirty. Have decent gear and definitely pick up a Leatherman or multi tool if you don't have one already. This tool will be used every single day. My recommendation is a Leatherman Wave. Northern Manitoba also has a few operators where you can get a start as well. If you have any more questions i'd be happy to help.
CHEERS
C-FDPB

Thank you for your wisdom


To clarify I do have my float rating already and am not allergic to hard work tho, will need to get a multi-tool and some more work clothes.

I used to landscape for a living so am familiar with grass cutting and such. I have used a chainsaw before and will look into getting a certificate.
I don't have a hunting background but, I do have my gun licence would that be worth mentioning?

Don't mind starting on the dock for the reasons you mentioned, even being able to put on my resume that I worked for an aviation company is a plus
but, might I still be asked to fly that season? Just trying to manage expectations.