Lead, Fleet Transition

WestJet Group•Calgary, AB

3d•Onsite

About The Position

WestJet is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Lead, Fleet Transition, to join our Technical Operations team. This role is pivotal in leading the successful transition of aircraft into and out of the WestJet fleet, ensuring full compliance with regulatory requirements while maintaining and strengthening strategic relationships with aircraft lessors and key stakeholders. The successful candidate will provide leadership and subject matter expertise in coordinating and managing all technical and documentation aspects of aircraft transactions—including lease returns, acquisitions, and sales. This includes overseeing regulatory, providing guidance to a cross-functional team, and driving process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy. In addition to hands-on responsibilities, the Lead Fleet Transition Specialist will mentor team members, influence decision-making, and contribute to alignment of WestJet’s long-term fleet strategy. This role also involves ownership of technical documentation governance and providing insights to support risk management for fleet transition activities.

Requirements

Minimum 3 years of experience working with technical records
At least 5 years of experience in an airline maintenance environment
Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Proven ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively
Collaborative team player with a commitment to delivering high-quality work
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel)

Nice To Haves

Post-secondary diploma from a technical institution is considered an asset
Experience with lessor reporting requirements for aircraft sales and leases is an asset
Familiarity with IATA best practices for aircraft leasing is an asset
Knowledge of regulatory requirements (CARs, FARs, EASA) is considered an asset
Experience with Maintenance & Engineering software (e.g., eMRO) and records management systems (e.g., AirVault) is an asset

Responsibilities

Help lead and coordinate fleet transition activities, ensuring alignment across Technical Operations, Flight Ops, Planning, Treasury, Supply Chain, Legal, Finance, and external partners.
Provide day-to-day guidance, mentorship, and technical expertise to team members.
Oversee end-to-end management of aircraft inductions, lease returns, and sales.
Ensure all deliverables are completed on schedule and in compliance with contractual obligations.
Proactively identify risks and implement mitigation strategies.
Lead the management and governance of aircraft technical records and documentation.
Ensure compliance with Transport Canada, FAA/EASA (as applicable), and lease agreement requirements.
Oversee records audits, back-to-birth traceability, and data integrity.
Build and maintain strong relationships with lessors, OEMs, MROs, and regulatory bodies.
Represent WestJet in negotiations and technical discussions related to aircraft transitions.
Ensure transparent and consistent communication throughout transition projects.
Drive continuous improvement in efficiency and compliance.
Contribute to standardization of processes, tools, and reporting related to fleet transitions.
Provide insights and recommendations to support long-term fleet planning and decision-making.
Support cost control, budget tracking, and financial forecasting related to transition activities.
Identify contractual or technical risks with potential financial impact and recommend solutions.