Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently
Asked
Questions

COVID-19

How is the COVID-19 pandemic affecting ATS Recruitment and Testing?

In order to comply with government and corporate precautions related to COVID-19 and protect our employees and candidates, ATS selection activities have been put on hold. We continue to accept applications for ATS careers. However, there are no scheduled assessments for ATS candidate selection.

Information on the selection process can be found on this site. If you have any additional questions, please contact the ATS Recruitment Centre at atscareers@navcanada.ca.

When will assessments resume?

There are no scheduled assessments. Assessments will resume based on training courses to support operational requirements. Currently, there is no forecasted timeframe for hiring to resume.

Who can I contact if I have questions about the selection process or my application?

Most questions regarding the selection process for ATS careers will be answered by visiting various pages of our website If you have a specific question regarding your application, you can reach our National Recruitment Centre by emailing atscareers@navcanada.ca or dialing 1-877-389-9934. Calls and emails will normally be answered within 2-3 business days.

Communication

Who can I contact if I have questions about the selection process or my application?

You can reach our National Recruitment Centre by emailing atscareers@navcanada.ca or dialing 1-877-389-9934. The National Recruitment Centre is normally open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Testing

How should I prepare for the NAV CANADA application tests?

Our Air Traffic Controller candidates come from all different educational and workplace backgrounds – there is no preparation or experience required for our recruitment process.

While there is no preparation required for the standard tests we administer, the next best thing you can do is ensure that you’re well rested, have good nutrition and be prepared to be yourself.

What is the pass score for the tests?

Each test we administer has a certain “pass or cut” score. You must successfully pass each test in order to be considered for the subsequent hurdle. We are not normally able to provide feedback on individual assessment performance.

Selection

What if I’m unsuccessful in the assessment process?

If you’re unsuccessful but would still like to join our team, you can reapply 18 months after the date of your test. NAV CANADA is a great company to work for: You may also want to consider other careers which may be advertised on navcanada.ca

Who conducts the medical examination?

A Transport Canada-approved examiner conducts the required medical screening. We help candidates identify practitioners who offer this service. Note there is a cost for such examinations that you are responsible for.

Do you have an international controller program to fast track the selection and training of controllers who are licensed in a jurisdiction outside Canada?

We do not have an international controller recruitment program. All applicants must meet basic requirements prior to applying and complete the standard selection process.

Training

Are all candidates successful in training?

Not everyone selected for training qualifies in the end. The selection process ensures you have the basic aptitudes needed to be successful. We’ll also provide the training resources to help you succeed. Unfortunately, not all candidates are successful in training.

What is the regional training program like?

Training is delivered in classroom and simulator settings at regional facilities tailored to the needs of the region. Training is very challenging, with a lot of information to retain. You will complete regular evaluations along the way.

Is there a long break or vacation during initial training?

There is no formal break during the initial training programs. However, standard provincial holidays are days off.

After Training

I understand I may be posted anywhere in the Flight Information Region based on NAV CANADA’s operational requirements. Can I apply for a transfer later to a location of my choice?

Once you have qualified as a controller or specialist, you may apply for positions in other locations as they become available under the provisions of collective agreements. This can include the staffing of positions through a seniority bid process.

What is the work schedule like?

Canada’s air navigation system operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year; work hours are shift-based. There are a variety of shift formulas, such as 6 days on 3 days off for example, with morning, evening and night shifts. This is not your typical 9-to-5 workplace, which means you may find the flexibility to do things a traditional schedule would not allow for.

Compensation

When can I expect to start getting paid?

You’ll start to receive a student allowance/or training salary as soon as you begin your training. The allowance/or salary and the amount depends on your stream. After you successfully complete the first phase of training, you will begin on-the-job training and will earn a student training salary of approximately $38,000 to $44,000 per year. Your salary increases significantly once you’re fully qualified or certified.

What are my prospects for advancement within NAV CANADA?

We encourage career-long learning and advancement and promote regularly from within. You’ll have opportunities to move into management, take on special projects, become an instructor, or move to other parts of Canada.