Civilian Pilot

The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) Aviation Unit is accepting applications for a Civilian Pilot in Command (PIC) assigned to the PCSO Aviation Unit.

JOB SUMMARY
The Civilian Pilot serves as a specialized technical expert supporting the Pinal County Sheriff's Office by piloting a helicopter for law enforcement missions and conducting essential flight operations for public safety. This position is responsible for tactical transport, logistics coordination, operational decision-making during flights, and ensuring adherence to standardized training and safety procedures. The role demands proficiency in advanced aviation techniques and oversight of administrative and maintenance tasks related to aircraft operations.TYPICAL CLASSIFICATION ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Pilot a helicopter for law enforcement missions and conduct flight operations for public safety assignments, ensuring compliance with all FAA and organizational regulations.
• Perform tactical transport and logistical support of personnel and equipment during operations.
• Make critical operational decisions during flight missions to ensure safety and mission success under dynamic conditions.
• Train and standardize pilot procedures to maintain high levels of operational readiness and safety standards.
• Complete administrative responsibilities including flight documentation, mission reporting, and regulatory compliance records.
• Coordinate and oversee aircraft maintenance activities to ensure airworthiness and operational availability.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information related to public safety missions and procedures.
• Serve as a key contributor to mission safety and regulatory compliance within the aviation unit.
• To promote and adhere to the workplace values of accountability, commitment, and teamwork to help enrich lives beyond expectation.
• Maintain absolute confidentiality of work-related issues, customer records and restricted County information.
• Perform other related duties as required.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK: 

• Possession of a valid Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Commercial Rotorcraft-Helicopter Rating.
• Possession of an FAA Instrument Rotorcraft-Helicopter Rating.
• Possession of a current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
• A minimum of 2,000 total helicopter flight hours.
• Or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience may substitute for the minimum requirements.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Preference will be given to candidates with the following:

• Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) – Rotorcraft Helicopter

• Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and/or Certified Instrument Instructor (CFII) – Rotorcraft Helicopter

• Minimum 200 hours mountain flying experience (above 5,000 ft MSL)
• External load experience, including hoist or vertical reference operations
• Experience in UH-1 and/or H125 aircraft
• Previous Search and Rescue (SAR) pilot experience
• Night Vision Goggle (NVG) experience and/or NVG Instructor Pilot qualification
• Long line and Hoist Operation experience
• Minimum 100 flight hours in category and class within the last 24 months

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Expert knowledge of helicopter flight operations and related FAA regulations.
• Thorough understanding of aviation safety protocols and mission-specific flight procedures.
• Advanced decision-making skills in high-pressure, dynamic flight environments.
• Effective communication and coordination abilities with law enforcement and aviation teams.
• Proficiency in conducting operational training and standardizing pilot procedures.
• Ability to adapt to changing mission requirements and environmental conditions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Requires sustained concentration and excellent visual acuity to operate complex flight instruments and controls. The role involves physical exertion in manipulating helicopter controls and maintaining situational awareness throughout extended flight periods.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed primarily in helicopter flight environments with exposure to variable weather conditions and operational hazards. The position demands adherence to strict safety standards and the ability to respond effectively to environmental and mission-specific challenges.

Salary : $76,616 - $122,586