RPAS Coordinator

Role Responsibilities

As the RPAS Coordinator with the Alberta Sheriffs Branch, you will lead the development, implementation, and oversight of the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) program. In this dynamic and high-impact role, you will ensure that RPAS operations are safe, effective, and fully compliant with federal and provincial legislation, including Transport Canada regulations and internal Sheriffs Branch policies.

You will be responsible for designing and maintaining a structured RPAS program that supports a wide range of operational needs, including:

•    Surveillance and emergency response
•    Collision scene investigation
•    Border interdiction and evidence collection
•    Public safety and conservation enforcement

Your work will directly support frontline operations by ensuring RPAS pilots are trained, certified, and equipped to perform in high-stakes environments. You will develop and deliver training programs, conduct flight reviews, and provide mentorship to ensure operational excellence and regulatory compliance.

In this role, you will also:

•    Develop and maintain RPAS policies, procedures, and training manuals
•    Oversee pilot certification, recertification, and performance assessments
•    Manage RPAS data, asset tracking, and incident reporting
•    Deploy RPAS assets for special operations and critical incidents
•    Evaluate and recommend RPAS technologies aligned with operational needs
•    Coordinate procurement, insurance, and privacy compliance
•    Represent the Sheriffs Branch at provincial and federal RPAS forums
•    Serve as an expert witness when required in legal proceedings

Role Responsibilities Continued

You will work closely with internal stakeholders, including the Technical and Information Services Unit, Sheriffs Branch management, and RPAS pilots—as well as external partners such as Transport Canada and other law enforcement agencies. Your decisions will have a direct impact on public safety, legal compliance, and the operational success of the RPAS program.

Additional Role Considerations
This position may require travel within the province. The role also involves operational fieldwork, which may include lifting and moving equipment (up to 50 lbs.). You should be comfortable working independently, working outdoors, managing complex technical systems, and making sound decisions under pressure.

This is a leadership role for someone with a strong understanding of aviation regulations, a passion for public safety, and the ability to translate technical systems into practical, mission-ready solutions. Your work will directly influence the effectiveness of law enforcement operations, and the trust placed in the Sheriffs Branch by Albertans.

Please click on this link to view the job description for this position.

APS Competencies

Competencies are behaviors that are essential to reach our goals in serving Albertans. We encourage you to have an in depth understanding of the competencies that are required for this opportunity and to be prepared to demonstrate them during the recruitment process.

This link will assist you with understanding competencies: https://www.alberta.ca/system/files/custom_downloaded_images/psc-alberta-public-service-competency-model.pdf.

DRIVE FOR RESULTS
You will remain outcome-focused, ensuring that RPAS effectively support Sheriffs Branch operations while maintaining compliance and efficiency.

AGILITY
You will adapt to evolving technologies, regulations, and operational demands with flexibility and responsiveness.

SYSTEMS THINKING
You will understand how your work integrates with the broader Sheriffs Branch, regulatory, and aviation frameworks. You will ensure that RPAS operations align with the organization's goals and mandates.

DEVELOP SELF AND OTHERS
You will take responsibility for training, mentoring, and overseeing pilots to support continuous skill development, operational excellence, and compliance with evolving RPAS regulations.

BUILD COLLABORATIVE ENVIRONMENTS
You will collaborate with Sheriffs Branch employees, RPAS pilots, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders to ensure the success of the RPAS program.

Qualifications

A two-year diploma in aviation, computer science, information technology, law enforcement, or a related field from a recognized post-secondary institution is required.

A minimum of six years of related experience, including at least three years of relevant experience in professional RPAS operations is required. In addition, the position requires an advanced RPAS certification as required by Transport Canada and a Restricted Radio Operator Certificate with Aeronautical Qualification (ROC-A).

The following are considered an asset for this job:
•    A Transport Canada Flight Reviewer Certification; and/or
•    A professional designation, such as PMP.

Equivalencies may be considered on a one-to-one basis, for one year of education for one year of related experience or one-year related experience for one year education.

Candidates must be able to perform occasional physical tasks such as lifting equipment (up to 50 lbs.) and be willing to travel within the province as required.

An enhanced security clearance is required. Additional levels of clearance may be necessary depending on the assignment.

Minimum recruitment standards outline the minimum education and experience required for appointment to a job classification.

Refer to https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-minimum-recruitment-standards for more information.

Notes

This is a full-time position working 36.25 hours a week, Monday to Friday. Potential exists for an Hours of Work Averaging Agreement. Working from either Edmonton, Red Deer, or Calgary; other locations may be considered.

This position will require final candidates to undergo an enhanced security clearance.

Any costs associated with obtaining the required documents/checks as noted or interview travel expenses, will be the responsibility of the candidate. Out-of-province applicants can obtain the required documents/checks from the province they currently reside in.

Please find below links and information on what the GoA has to offer to prospective employees: 
•    Working for the Alberta Public Service – https://www.alberta.ca/advantages- working-for-alberta-public-service.aspx
•    Pension plans:
•    Public Service Pension Plan (PSPP) – https://www.pspp.ca
•    Alberta Public Service Benefit Information - https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-benefits 
•    Leadership and mentorship programs
•    Professional learning and development - https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-human-resource-directives
•    Positive workplace culture and work-life balance
•    Opportunity to participate in flexible work arrangements such as working from home up to two days per week and modified work schedule agreements
•    Research Alberta Public Service Careers tool https://researchapscareers.alberta.ca