Sr. Airfield Equipment & Ramp Operator

We are seeking an experienced Sr. Airfield Equipment & Ramp Operations professional to join our airport operations team. This position provides senior operational support at Dease Lake Airport, overseeing runway maintenance, ramp servicing, aircraft ground support, and daily shift activities. The role supports the Airport Manager and Airport Duty Manager, mentors team members, and provides operational coverage when required. You will operate snow removal and ground equipment, service aircraft, assist with daily reporting, coordinate shift tasks, and provide operational coverage when the manager is away (excluding formal regulatory certifications). The role requires a strong commitment to safety, equipment care, teamwork, and maintaining a clean and organized ramp environment. You’ll thrive in a fast-paced environment where safety, communication, and adaptability are essential.

Guided by TNDC’s mission to create economic prosperity for the Tahltan Nation, this role upholds our values of Safety, Integrity, Respect, Trust, and the Pursuit of Excellence in every aspect of airport service. Be part of a team that connects people, places, and purpose — while helping build a stronger future for the Tahltan Nation.

Responsibilities:

• Operate aerodrome equipment, including plow trucks, blowers, sweepers and sanders, ensuring all runways, taxiways, and aprons are clear and operational in all weather conditions.
• Perform daily inspections of runway surfaces, lighting, and perimeter fencing, logging and escalating any identified hazards.
• Execute aircraft ground handling duties, including marshalling, towing, baggage/cargo handling, GPU hookups, and other basic aircraft services.
• Perform aircraft de-icing/anti-icing and into-plane refueling per strict quality, safety, and environmental standards.
• Coordinate day-to-day shift tasks across the ramp crew, ensuring smooth workflow between flight arrivals and departures.
• Support airport leadership and assist with daily operational logs, draft NOTAMs, and runway condition reports (AMSCRs).
• Provide field coverage during absences by handling daily coordination and escalating urgent operational concerns.
• Maintain clean, organized airside facilities, including the equipment shop, terminal areas, and aircraft apron.
• Carry out seasonal airfield ground maintenance, including brush clearing, drainage ditching, and wildlife mitigation.
• Assist with passenger check-in and deliver professional, courteous customer service to airline partners and travelers.
• Support the mentorship, career development, succession planning, and performance management of airport staff.
• Document and provide detailed records of airport activities and report on daily, monthly and annual key performance indicators.
• Lead daily safety tailgates, support site inspections, and ensure all legislative, industry and customer standards are adhered to including Transport Canada, Occupational Health and Safety and site regulations.
• Provide rotational support for after-hours winter call-outs, emergency runway response, and medevac flights.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in airport ramp operations and aircraft ground servicing.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license required; must be able to provide a current driving record.
• Class 3 with Air Brake Endorsement.
• Proven experience operating heavy equipment for winter snow and ice control.
• Practical familiarity with aircraft fueling, de-icing, and runway condition reporting (AMSCR/NOTAM processes).
• Strong communication skills and demonstrated ability to coordinate frontline crews under tight turnaround times.
• Ability and willingness to work a fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) rotational schedule in northern winter conditions, including cold temperatures, snow, and ice.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Establish a culture of open communication, respect, and accountability.

Working Conditions:

• Physical ability to stand, climb, and repetitively lift luggage, cargo, and equipment up to 70 lbs.
• Exposure to high-noise airside environments, live aircraft engine perimeters, and aviation fuel systems.
• Outdoor physical work in remote northern conditions, including sub-zero temperatures, snow, ice, and high winds.
• Rotational FIFO schedule with early mornings, split shifts, evenings, weekends, and on-call response.
• Fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions and changing priorities.
• Strict adherence to airport safety and security protocols.
• Mandatory use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including hearing protection, high-visibility vests, and safety footwear.

Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing:

• Coach and guide junior ramp staff and equipment operators on proper operating techniques and safety standards by sharing technical skills, safety practices, and industry knowledge in a respectful and culturally aware manner.
• Foster a respectful, accountable work environment that aligns with Tahltan culture and values.
• Support training and career development opportunities for local Tahltan workers by sharing technical airport knowledge.

Conditions of Employment:

• Pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and fitness for work assessment.
• Ability to repetitively lift/move up to 70 lbs. and maintain high levels of performance throughout shift.
• Willingness to learn all airport operations and standard operations procedures, and to be a team player to ensure operations run smoothly.
• Wear suitable attire for all weather conditions and ensure the use of necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).