Getting That First Job
It’s that time of year when brand new CPL pilots graduate, are let loose on the world and suddenly realise with a mild case of panic that they now need to find their first job. Hopefully, they have been thinking of this moment since before they started training - but in many cases, I suspect not. Their focus has been getting the license.
So, perhaps with immaculate timing, we have here the thoughts and advice of two companies that take brand new CPL pilots. One here in New Zealand and one from Australia.
I’d like to introduce to you Tim Rayward from Air Safaris in Tekapo and Juliet Small from Shoal Air in Kununurra - remote Northern Australia.
Tim Rayward, Operation Manager and Airline Flight Examiner, Air Safaris
About 90% of our applicants are fresh CPLs. For successful applicants we look at starting them on our GA8 Airvan then progressing to Caravans eventually.
We are a little bit unique in that we own and operate two aerodromes (Franz Josef & Tekapo) and all the associated hangars - so we have a lot of work to keep these maintained from within our own staff - landscaping , mowing, weeding, general painting, repairs. Also snow clearing and lots of machinery.
When we employ pilots we always look at other skills / background they have - i.e. we have had pilots that have been qualified welders, mechanics and farmers for example - also office based skills, marketing, graphic design etc.
It is always hard for young pilots that have gone from school to flight training and then looking for a flying job as it is often their first full time job as well.
How’s this for your first job?
Mountain flying , living in a place like Lake Tekapo and working a lot of time outdoors generally suits people more with outdoor interests and pursuits and experience working in cold temps !
In looking at applicants it is really important they are comfortable dealing with people in a professional and friendly/engaging manner and a passion for sharing flight experience with others. ie a "people person"
This is usually a personality trait rather than training.
Personally I'm not that keen on prospective pilots "cold calling" around operations - often their timing is less than ideal. It is better for prospective pilots to do some research on the company they are applying to , including who to talk to regarding jobs and then making a mutually convenient time to visit. It just shows more consideration and professionalism.
It's hard to recommend specific training - the training carried around the South Island is usually to a very good standard.
The main areas of weakness we find are in stable approaches / X wind landings / precision landings (speed control) - as they move to faster heavier aircraft these areas are critical especially with often fickle wind conditions.
Some short strip flying and tail dragger experience can help with honing these skills prior to employment.
Certainly some exposure to mountain flying and experience to Queenstown , Wanaka , Dunedin , West Coast etc during XC phases helps when we talk to candidates.
A lot of it is basics and the right attitude, learning to sweep hangar floors, clean aircraft, look after machinery etc and setting that expectation right at the start of training.
Juliet Small, Pilot Recruitment, Shoal Air
With almost all of our applicants being recent CPL graduates and largely having similar hours, it’s attitude, work experience and preparedness which set individuals apart.
Attitude: open minded, keen to learn and willing to go where the job is (sending emails from your couch at home is unlikely to be fruitful)
Work experience: experience in previous non-aviation jobs, and how those skills are transferable to a pilot role. Draw on strengths, generally first GA jobs you wear many hats! So whether you have experience in customer service, trades or office skills, it’s all likely to be of value.
Preparedness: studying aviation regulations (not to be assumed as same as NZ!) gaining experience on aircraft type that the operators use - C200 series or GA8 airvan
I recommend to gain the flight experience in Australia as pilots are able to observe and practice Australian procedures which differ slightly from that in NZ.
Shoal Air operates across Northern Australia
Shoal Air Team -
To wrap up, then, make sure you have the following before you start looking for that first role.
Experience working with the public - such as hospitality, service organisations…
Different types of flying such as mountain flying and remote country flying
Have useful complimentary skills - yes, you can learn to use a broom!
Develop your point of difference
Research your chosen company or companies
Don’t cold call - make an appointment
Attitude, attitude, attitude
Be prepared to move across the motu or move overseas
And most importantly - dress respectably for the interview - no scruffiness allowed!
Good Luck!
