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Commission Sheriff Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sheriff Aircraft Pilot

Bakersfield, CA

$93K - $115K/yr

Sheriff Aircraft Pilot About Kern County Kern County employees provide opportunities that are ... Commission. For more information regarding Kern County's recruitment process, please see our FAQ ...

SHERIFF Opening Date: 05/11/2023 Closing Date: Continuous Position Information Amended: 5/18/23, 5 ... The Civil Service Commission may refuse to examine or, after examination, to certify as eligible or ...

Commission Sheriff Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do commission sheriff pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for commission sheriff pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Commission Sheriff Pilot vs Commission Sheriff Pilot?

AspectCommission Sheriff Pilot
Required CredentialsCommercial Pilot License (CPL), specific state or federal certifications
Work EnvironmentAirports, law enforcement agencies, government facilities
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, law enforcement, transportation sectors
Common Search & ComparisonRoles involving law enforcement aviation duties

The Commission Sheriff Pilot typically refers to pilots working under law enforcement agencies, often with specialized certifications. They operate aircraft for surveillance, transport, or enforcement activities. The role emphasizes aviation skills combined with law enforcement knowledge, making it distinct from other aviation roles but similar in credentials and work environment to other law enforcement aviation positions.

Is 30 too late to become a helicopter pilot?

For a Commission Sheriff Pilot or any helicopter pilot, starting a career at age 30 is possible, but it requires completing flight training, obtaining necessary certifications such as a commercial pilot license, and gaining experience. Many pilots begin training in their late teens or early twenties, but age is less restrictive than physical fitness and skill development, so individuals can pursue helicopter piloting at 30 or older if they meet the requirements.

Will pilots be in demand in 5 years?

Commission sheriff pilots, like other aviation professionals, are expected to see steady demand due to ongoing needs for transportation, law enforcement support, and specialized operations. Job prospects will depend on factors such as industry growth, certification requirements, and technological advancements in aviation. Staying current with licensing and safety standards is essential for long-term employment stability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Commission Sheriff Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Commission Sheriff Pilot, you need a commercial pilot's license, extensive flight experience (often with law enforcement operations), and knowledge of aviation regulations. Proficiency with police radios, navigation systems, and aviation safety protocols is essential, and many agencies require specialized training or certifications in helicopter or fixed-wing operations. Strong decision-making, communication, and situational awareness are key soft skills for effectively supporting law enforcement missions. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring public safety, successful mission execution, and the ability to respond effectively in high-pressure situations.

What is the highest paid helicopter pilot job?

The highest paid helicopter pilot jobs are typically in corporate or executive transport, where pilots can earn over $150,000 annually, especially with extensive experience and advanced certifications. Specialized roles such as offshore oil rig support or VIP transport often offer higher compensation due to the demanding environment and skill requirements.

What is the highest paid sheriff position?

The highest paid sheriff position is typically the Sheriff or Sheriff-Coroner, especially in large counties or jurisdictions with significant responsibilities. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and may include additional responsibilities such as overseeing multiple departments, which can lead to higher compensation. Salaries vary widely based on location, budget, and size of the jurisdiction.

What are some common challenges faced by Commission Sheriff Pilots, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Commission Sheriff Pilots often face challenges such as operating aircraft in unpredictable weather, responding to emergency situations at short notice, and coordinating closely with law enforcement teams on the ground. Applicants should be prepared for irregular hours and high-adrenaline tasks, as missions can include aerial surveillance, search and rescue, and prisoner transport. Developing strong communication skills and staying current with aviation and law enforcement protocols can help candidates thrive in this dynamic and demanding environment.

What are Commission Sheriff Pilots?

Commission Sheriff Pilots are specially trained law enforcement officers who operate aircraft on behalf of a sheriff's department. Their primary duties include aerial surveillance, search and rescue missions, transportation of personnel or inmates, and supporting ground units during operations. They play a crucial role in enhancing public safety by providing aerial support, which allows for quicker response times and better situational awareness. Sheriff pilots are required to hold both law enforcement credentials and relevant pilot certifications, ensuring they can handle both the technical and legal aspects of their role.
More about Commission Sheriff Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Commission Sheriff Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Commission Sheriff Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Sheriff Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Sheriff Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Commission Sheriff Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Commission Sheriff Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Commission Sheriff Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.
Sheriff Aircraft Pilot

Sheriff Aircraft Pilot

Kern County

Bakersfield, CA

$93K - $115K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Kern County rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

221st of 649 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Information Amended: 5/18/23, 5/24/23, 7/30/24 This is a continuous recruitment and may close at any time without notice. Examination: Appraisal (Weight 100%): of training, education, experience, interest and personal fitness for the work based on any combination of the following: Investigation, oral exam and rating of application. Applicants must attain at least a 70% score on each phase of the examination process.

Minimum Qualifications/ Employment Standards: High School Diploma, G.E.D. or equivalent AND the following certifications/licenses: Valid and current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate issued by an authorized medical examiner (AME). Valid California Motor Vehicle Driver's License

AND Option I: Required helicopter flight experience: FAA Commercial or Airline Transport Pilot with Rotorcraft-Helicopter rating. Minimum 2000 hours PIC Helicopter flight time Minimum 500 hours in medium (Type 2) turbine powered helicopters. Minimum 500 hours PIC in mountainous terrain, routinely making takeoffs and landings to unimproved landing areas at density altitudes exceeding 4500' MSL.

Night Vision Goggle endorsement with a minimum of 200 hours PIC flight time utilizing Night Vision Goggle devices. Minimum 500 hours PIC performing low-level missions in law-enforcement patrol, search and rescue, vertical reference operations over mountainous or forested areas, or comparable fire service or military operations. Desired Helicopter Flight Experience Certified Flight Instructor with Rotorcraft-Helicopter endorsement Night Vision Goggle Instructor endorsement Vertical reference and external load operations experience UH-1H or other similar Bell Helicopter OR Option II: Required Fixed-Wing experience: FAA Commercial or Airline Transport Pilot with Airplane-Multi Engine Land (AMEL) rating.

Airplane Instrument Rating. Minimum 1500 hours PIC Airplane. Minimum 200 hours in PIC Category and Class (ASEL or AMEL).

Minimum 100 hours of PIC night flight time. Minimum 75 hours of PIC flight time solely by reference to instruments (actual/simulated). Desired Fixed-Wing Experience: Certified Flight Instructor Airplane Instrument Flight Instructor Airplane (CFII) Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) PHYSICAL STANDARDS: Physical Examination: In addition to requiring a Class II Medical Certificate, a rigid medical examination by the County Physician is required.

The examination includes spine and chest x-rays, blood chemistry and electro-cardiograph tests. Weight must be proportionate to height and age. Vision: 20-100 uncorrected in each eye, corrected to 20-20, no color deficiency.

No permanent or progressive eye abnormalities. Hearing: No hearing deficiency. Character: Applicants must have a reputation for honesty and trustworthiness.

Felony law violations will be disqualifying, and, except for a limited number of traffic offenses, misdemeanor offenses may be disqualifying. Please ensure all applicable certificates are attached with your application. If you are unable to attach application materials to your application or have any questions regarding this recruitment, you may contact Nesrine Annan at annann@kerncounty.com or call at 661-868-3108

Full Job Description for: Sheriff Aircraft Pilot About Kern County Kern County employees provide opportunities that are purposeful to our community. Every employee and every action contributes to the improvement and strengthening of our county. To learn more about Kern County, click here or follow us: Growth Mindset We always encourage our employees to grow and develop.

Kern County has a culture of innovation that allows employees to explore creative and more efficient ways to accomplish their work. We provide access to training and continued professional development in an effort to ensure that our employees have opportunities for career growth. Additional Information Admittance to the examination will require a valid government issued photograph identification.

Applicants who are unable to present proper identification must make arrangements with the Human Resources Division prior to the test date. A background check may be conducted for this classification. Following an offer of employment, you may be required to submit to post offer medical and drug screening tests at County expense.

This examination will establish an eligible list from which immediate appointment(s) will be made at Kern County Sheriff's Office. Other permanent and temporary appointments will be made as needed. Successful candidates will remain on the eligible list for a period of twelve-months, unless specified otherwise by the Civil Service Commission.

For more information regarding Kern County's recruitment process, please see our FAQ page. This position works within the Kern County Sheriff's Office. For more information about the department, please view their website here.

Kern County Sheriff's Office will seek and retain qualified individuals who maintain a high moral character, are ethical in all facets of life, and are trustworthy and professional when serving our community. To learn more about the 7 pillars of the ideal candidate please click here. Kern County is an ADA compliant and an equal opportunity employer and encourages all qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.


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