Senior Operational Auditor

Overview of the role:
WestJet is seeking a Senior Operational Auditor to join the Audit, Investigations & Safety Data team. Reporting to the Senior Manager - Group Audit, Investigations & Safety Data, this role is responsible for leading the organization's operational audit program and ensuring ongoing compliance with IOSA requirements through a rolling audit schedule.
Key responsibilities include conducting company-wide System Quality Assurance audits, performing targeted operational audits at the request of department leaders, and carrying out station safety audits across the network as required. The Senior Operational Auditor will collaborate with data teams to enhance audit-related software and partner with airport stakeholders to recommend improvements to the station audit program. This role also prepares and delivers audit performance and safety reports to support leadership decision-making and continuous operational improvement.
Key deliverables include:
Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to conduct System Quality Audits (SQA) across the entire WestJet Group.
Facilitate both initial and recurrent training sessions for operational auditors.
Manage a comprehensive training program for the entire operational auditor team as well as the overall organization:
Develop and manage training materials, ensuring they align with the latest industry standards. Implement robust oversight mechanisms for operational auditors, identifying areas for individual continuous improvement.
Regularly review feedback from audit surveys, sharing results in training sessions and team meetings to promote ongoing learning and enhancement within the audit team and the organization.
Lead, execute, and document operational quality audits in accordance with the standards outlined by Transport Canada, IATA, and internal protocols. Additionally, lead focused audits and ad hoc audits driven by the needs of the airline's safety management system.
Collaborate with external consultants, safety auditors, and regulatory authorities as needed to ensure comprehensive audit coverage and compliance with industry standards.
Regularly review and revise all audit documentation templates and checklists related to various audit types. Collaborate with the Program Manager, Operational Audit, and Program Manager, Safety Data to address any software issues, particularly in the context of the CRS (Computer Reporting System). Ensure all audit-related materials are kept up-to-date and aligned with organizational standards and requirements.
Establish a systematic approach for conducting comprehensive quality control checks on Operational Auditors, ensuring strict adherence to documented policies and procedures.
Identify areas for improvement and efficiency within the audit team, contributing to continuous process improvement.
Travel is required across WestJet’s network (approximately 10-20% annually) to support audits and operational reviews.
Experience and qualifications:
3-6 years of audit experience, or equivalent, and airline operations experience is required
Strong knowledge of Transport Canada regulations, IOSA requirements, and aviation regulatory compliance, with the ability to interpret, apply, and assess adherence to applicable standards.
Comprehensive understanding of Safety Management Systems (SMS) and quality assurance principles, including operational risk management, investigation methodologies, safety culture, human and organizational factors, continuous improvement, and quality management systems.
Demonstrated leadership skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively across diverse stakeholder groups.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proven relationship-building abilities and experience working with both internal and external stakeholders.
Valid passport and, where applicable, a valid Canadian Permanent Resident Card, with the ability to travel unrestricted throughout the WestJet network.
Assets:
Professional Auditor Training and/or IOSA Auditor Training.
Experience in quality assurance, quality control, or operational auditing within the aviation industry.
Familiarity with WestJet and WestJet Encore operational manuals.
Experience using the iAuditor platform.
Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. L-1B Visa.