Air Drop Systems Technician

As members of the military, Air Drop Systems Technicians are the Canadian Forces go-to experts on a wide range of parachute systems and parachute-related equipment. They play a pivotal role in supporting airborne operations for Infantry Parachute Companies, Air Force Aerial Delivery Sections, Special Operations, and Search and Rescue.

As an Air Drop Systems Technician, your responsibilities are as diverse as they are crucial. You will be the one ensuring the safety of our personnel by meticulously packing and repairing parachutes and related airborne equipment. You will provide invaluable technical guidance to commanders and staff, aiding in the planning and execution of airborne and airdrop operations. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring the success of these missions.

Though you will primarily work in a warehouse environment, fine-tuning parachute systems and maintaining their peak performance, you won't be confined to these walls. You will even have the opportunity to experience the thrill of a parachute jump yourself, as part of your mandatory qualification requirement. The primary duties of an Air Drop Systems Technician are to:

• Proficiently pack and maintain an extensive array of parachute systems, inclusive of extraction parachute systems, light, medium, and heavy cargo parachute systems, round/mass and square/precision personnel parachute systems.
• Utilize advanced equipment integral to parachute operations, such as GPS-guided aerial delivery parachute systems.
• Conduct thorough inspections and maintenance of diverse sewing machine systems employed in the upkeep of parachutes and parachute-related equipment.
• Actively participate in the support of airborne operations.
• Operate within a broad spectrum of parachute operations within the CAF, providing vital support to Infantry Parachute Battalions, Air Force Aerial Delivery Sections, Special Operations, and Search and Rescue.
• Conduct in-depth investigations into Incident Malfunctions pertaining to parachute operations.
• Supervise the packing and maintenance of all parachute systems and related airborne equipment.
• Ensure the upkeep of your required parachuting qualifications.

Work environment

Air Drop Systems Technicians typically work indoors in a temperature regulated warehouse handling and maintaining a variety of diverse parachute systems. However, their role extends beyond the walls of the warehouse.

As part of the dynamic airborne community of the CAF, you will often find yourself stepping into the field, mirroring real-world conditions for a truly immersive experience. Your duties are as diverse as they are crucial. From submitting comprehensive reports on parachute data, drops, incidents, and investigations, to conducting serviceability checks and repairs on personnel and aerial delivery equipment, to strapping on a parachute system yourself and going for a jump, no two days will be the same. Air Drop Systems Technicians are involved in supporting parachuting activities and airborne operations throughout Canada and the world.

If you choose a career in the Regular Force, upon completion of all required training, you will be assigned to your first base. While there is some flexibility regarding postings (relocations), accommodations can’t always be made, and therefore, you can likely expect to move at some point in your career.

Minimum Requirements

The minimum required education to apply for this occupation is the completion of the provincial requirements for Grade 10 or Secondary 4 in Quebec.

No previous work experience or career-related skills are required. CAF recruiters can help you decide if your personal interests and attributes match the criteria for this occupation.