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Civilian Helicopter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SUMMARY As a UH-60/S-70 helicopter mechanic, you will be responsible for performing ... Experience on UH-60/H-60/S-70 series aircraft (military 15T or civilian equivalent experience ...

$76K/yr

GS-2181-12 (Airplane Pilot/Helicopter Pilot): Applicant must possess a USAF Pilot rating, hold a ... In addition to meeting civilian qualifications, applicants must obtain military membership in the ...

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Civilian Helicopter information

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$59.5K

$96.4K

$102.5K

How much do civilian helicopter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for civilian helicopter in the United States is $96,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the civilian helicopter position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civilian Helicopter Pilot, you need strong aeronautical knowledge, spatial awareness, quick decision-making skills, and a commercial pilot license with relevant flight hours. Proficiency in navigation systems, aviation weather services, and radio communications is also required, along with FAA certifications such as a Commercial Rotorcraft License and often an Instrument Rating. Excellent situational awareness, stress management, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring flight safety, smooth operations, and coordinating effectively with ground and air teams under varying conditions.

How to become a civilian helicopter pilot?

To become a civilian helicopter pilot, you must obtain a private pilot license (PPL) for helicopters by completing flight training, accumulating a minimum of 40 flight hours, and passing written and practical exams. Additional certifications like an instrument or commercial license can expand career opportunities, and maintaining good health with a medical certificate is required throughout your career.

What is a civilian helicopter?

A Civilian Helicopter job typically involves piloting or maintaining helicopters for non-military purposes, such as emergency medical services, law enforcement, tourism, news reporting, or corporate transportation. Pilots must obtain the necessary certifications, including a commercial helicopter license, while maintenance personnel require specific technical training. These roles demand strong situational awareness, flight or mechanical expertise, and adherence to safety regulations.

What are the typical work schedules and environments for civilian helicopter pilots?

Civilian helicopter pilots can work in a variety of settings, including emergency medical services (EMS), law enforcement, sightseeing tours, utility work, or news broadcasting. Schedules may include rotating shifts, weekends, and nights depending on the employer and nature of assignments—EMS and news pilots, for example, often work irregular hours to respond to urgent needs. Pilots may operate solo or as part of a team, collaborating closely with dispatchers, ground crews, and other aviation professionals. The role involves adapting to changing weather, diverse locations, and sometimes demanding conditions, but it also offers a dynamic and rewarding work environment.

Can a civilian learn to fly a helicopter?

Yes, civilians can learn to fly a helicopter by obtaining a private pilot license for rotorcraft from the appropriate aviation authority, which requires completing flight training, passing written and practical exams, and meeting medical standards. Training involves learning aircraft controls, navigation, and safety procedures, often in flight schools or with certified flight instructors.
More about Civilian Helicopter jobs
What cities are hiring for Civilian Helicopter jobs? Cities with the most Civilian Helicopter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Civilian Helicopter jobs? The most popular types of Civilian Helicopter jobs are:
What states have the most Civilian Helicopter jobs? States with the most job openings for Civilian Helicopter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Civilian Helicopter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,397 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

HELICOPTER PILOT (TITLE 32)

US Department of the Army

West Jordan, UT • On-site

$110K/yr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


United States Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 488 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

This National Guard position is for a HELICOPTER PILOT (TITLE 32), Position Description Number D2929000and is part of the AASF located in West Jordan, with the Utah Army National Guard.
IAW UTNGR 690-12 dated AUG 2022, Priority will be given to all current, onboard employees of the UTARNG.
The selecting supervisor for this vacancy is CW4 JEREMY HOAGLAND .

Qualifications:*Your resume must reflect in detail how the duties and responsibilities under each position you have held with each employer meets the below listed general and specialized experience required for the position.
**Must include beginning and ending dates of employment stated as MM/YYYY; and total hours worked per week in order to determine part time vs. full time credit.
MANDATORY QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Eligibility requirements for Dual Status technician positions in this occupation are based on the candidate's possession of Federal Aviation Administration pilot certificates -OR- appropriate military certifications, military ratings in the main-frame military aircraft of employment, and the required competencies (knowledge, skills, and abilities).
General Experience:

An applicant must have a competent understanding of the occupation's basic principles and concepts. Applicants should have a minimum of one year on-the-job experience in the grade (or a comparable military rank) immediately below the next higher level.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
Army National Guard Warrant Officer:
Have working experiences in civilian aviation programs; or, in military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components); or, in the Army National Guard Aviation Support facilities; or, in Air National Guard Wing/ Operations Groups.
Must have at least two years specialized competencies in operating a specific main-frame military aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation. Experienced in reviewing and analyzing mission tasking, intelligence, and weather information. Experienced in filing flight plans and conducting crew briefings. Experienced in aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, and equipment assessments. Experienced in performing or supervising work procedures involved in navigation, in-flight refueling, search and rescue operations or surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or supervising the training of crew members in simple to complex mission specific tasks. Experienced in developing plans and policies, monitoring operations, and advising commanders. Knowledge is required in flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, mission tactics, and operating procedures. Experienced in the unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs in accordance with Department of Defense, Department of the Army, National Guard Bureau, and/or Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, regulations, and directives.
Education:Army National Guard Warrant Officer:
Must have a high school diploma or general education development (GED) diploma. An undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university is optimum.
Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools.
*** Must provide certifications and transcripts ***
***Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs OR aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools. Forms such as DA Form 759 or DA Form 1059.***
Employment Type: OTHER

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National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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