Aviation careers take-off

More than 300 jobs on offer at special Cairns Airport day

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| Nick Dalton

MORE than 300 jobs will be up for grabs at Cairns Airport’s careers day later this month as the city’s aviation sector desperately seeks staff to fill vital roles.

Most of the positions – ranging from licensed aircraft engineers and pilots to baggage handlers and hospitality staff –are expected to be snapped up straight away.

As a drawcard, a superstar stunt pilot renowned for his jaw dropping aerobatic displays will attend the aviation careers event on August 27 to greet fans and share advice.

Reigning Red Bull Air Race world champion Matt Hall and one of his protégés Emma McDonald will show off their aircraft, perform an Esplanade aerobatic display and host a presentation about their incredible career journeys at the careers day.

One of the day’s organisers – Cairns Aviation Skills Centre (CASC) business manager Chris Pigott – said the sector was struggling to get staff.

“It’s worse than last year,” he said when 200 jobs were available and the day was attended by more than 1500 people. A lot more are expected this year.

Mr Pigott said people were opting for Defence jobs instead of the commercial aviation industry. He said the jobs available at the airport paid well and could be transferred to anywhere in the world.

“In some cases people will be able to start the next day,” Mr Pigott said. In others on the job training would be provided, he said.

“Aviation overall is a dynamic and exciting industry. We will have more than 20 employers available on the day showcasing what they do and how it could fit into your future.”

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Reigning Red Bull Air Race world champion Matt Hall will be at the Cairns Airport careers day and will perform demonstrations along the city's Esplanade. Picture: Supplied