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Ems Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Compensation Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Helicopter Pilot

Jamestown, KY · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Pay Scale Based on flight and EMS experience. Education & Experience * Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two to five years' related experience and ...

Compensation Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Pay Scale Based on flight and EMS experience. Education & Experience * Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two to five years' related experience and ...

Compensation Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Compensation Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Helicopter Pilot

Somerset, PA

$75K - $93K/yr

EMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC145 (VFR) AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our ...

Compensation Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Pay Scale Based on flight and EMS experience. Education & Experience * Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two to five years' related experience and ...

Helicopter Pilot

Hazleton, PA

$89K - $111K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Hazleton, PA Lehigh Valley MedEvac EMS Air Medical Aircraft: BK117C2 and EC 135 VFR$20,000 Annual Stipend, Off Duty Housing and $15,000 Sign-on Bonus Available AIR METHODS:

Compensation Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year ... Pilots must have flown in category for a commercial operator or in the military within the previous ...

Helicopter Pilot

Philadelphia, PA

$90K - $113K/yr

EMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC145 (VFR) AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our ...

Compensation Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Instrument Flight rules (IFR ...

Compensation Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Pilot

Watson, IL

$87K - $95K/yr

... EMS Operations Manual, and all state and municipal regulations. * Operates the aircraft in a safe ... Pilots More Information about this Job: Check out our careers site benefits page to learn more ...

Helicopter Pilot

Stillwater, OK

$72K - $90K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - LifeFlight OK Stillwater, OK EMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC130 (VFR) $25,000 Stipend, Off-Duty Housing and $15,000 Sign-on Bonus Available AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND ...

Helicopter Pilot

Show Low, AZ

$85K - $106K/yr

Overview Rotor Wing Pilot - Native AirShow Low, AZ EMS Air Medical Aircraft: AS350 (VFR)$15,000 Annual Stipend, Off-Duty Housing and $15,000 Sign-on Bonus Available AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND ...

Helicopter Pilot

Somerset, PA

$75K - $93K/yr

EMS Air Medical Aircraft: EC145 (VFR) AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE! As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our ...

Helicopter Pilot

Hot Springs, AR

$73K - $91K/yr

Pay Scale Based on flight and EMS experience. Education & Experience * Associate's degree (A.A.) or ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

Compensation Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year ... Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program ...

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Showing results 1-20

Ems Pilot information

See salary details

$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do ems pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for ems 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 are some common challenges EMS Pilots face during their shifts, and how can they prepare for them?

EMS Pilots often contend with unpredictable weather conditions, rapidly changing mission details, and the need to make critical decisions under pressure. They must be ready to respond to emergency calls at any time, which requires strong situational awareness and excellent communication with medical teams and dispatchers. To prepare, EMS Pilots should maintain rigorous pre-flight checks, stay current with training, and foster close coordination with their crew to ensure safety and effective patient transport.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an EMS Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an EMS Pilot, you need a commercial helicopter pilot license, extensive flight hours (often 2,000+), and a strong knowledge of aviation safety and emergency procedures. Familiarity with aviation navigation systems, night vision goggles (NVGs), and adherence to FAA regulations are crucial technical requirements. Excellent decision-making, stress management, and clear communication with medical teams and dispatch make a pilot stand out. These skills are vital to ensure rapid, safe patient transport and effective coordination in high-pressure, life-saving situations.

What do EMS pilots make?

EMS pilots typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They require specialized certifications such as commercial pilot licenses and often work in high-stress environments with irregular schedules.

What is the difference between Ems Pilot vs Ems Paramedic?

AspectEms PilotEms Paramedic
CertificationsBasic EMT, Pilot License, Medical CertificationAdvanced EMT, Paramedic Certification, Medical License
Work EnvironmentAircraft, helicopters, emergency response vehiclesAmbulances, hospitals, emergency scenes
Job RoleOperate aircraft, assist in emergency medical situations from the airProvide advanced pre-hospital emergency care

While both roles involve emergency medical response, Ems Pilots primarily operate aircraft to transport patients and assist in air rescue missions, requiring pilot licenses and basic medical certifications. Ems Paramedics provide advanced medical care on the ground, with more extensive medical training and certifications. The roles complement each other in emergency response but focus on different aspects of patient transport and care.

What does an EMS pilot do?

An EMS pilot operates aircraft such as helicopters or fixed-wing planes to transport emergency medical personnel and patients. They are responsible for flying safely under various weather conditions, often requiring specialized certifications and adherence to strict safety protocols. EMS pilots work closely with medical teams to ensure timely and efficient patient transport in emergency situations.

What are EMS pilots?

EMS pilots are specialized aviators who operate aircraft, such as helicopters or fixed-wing planes, to transport emergency medical personnel and patients to and from accident scenes or hospitals. They play a critical role in providing rapid medical response, often in challenging and high-pressure environments. EMS pilots must have extensive flight experience, specialized training in emergency operations, and a strong commitment to safety. Their responsibilities include pre-flight planning, ensuring the aircraft is mission-ready, and collaborating closely with medical teams during transport.

Is it hard to become an EMS pilot?

Becoming an EMS pilot requires extensive training, including obtaining a commercial pilot license, specific certifications such as rotorcraft or fixed-wing ratings, and experience flying in emergency or challenging conditions. Additionally, EMS pilots often need medical clearance and familiarity with aviation safety protocols, making the process demanding but achievable with dedication and proper training.

Are EMS pilots in demand?

EMS pilots are in demand due to the need for emergency medical transportation, especially in remote or inaccessible areas. They require specialized training, certifications, and experience with helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft, and employment opportunities are influenced by healthcare and emergency response needs.
More about Ems Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Ems Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Ems Pilot job openings:
What states have the most Ems Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Ems Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ems Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. 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.
Helicopter Pilot

$82K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday


Air Methods rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 871 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Helicopter Pilot - Effingham, IL

B407 / VFR

$30,000 Location Stipend

$15,000 Sign On Bonus 

AIR METHODS: GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HERE!

As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us to serve our communities. We are committed to providing air medical transport resources to our communities 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while providing our pilots with work life balance. Our #1 objective is to ensure safety to/from every time, so come join our growing and high-performing culture, sparked by teammates who deliver on being the best!

Location

Effingham, IL, is special for its unique blend of small-town charm, rich history, and modern conveniences. Known as the "Crossroads of Opportunity" due to its location at the intersection of Interstates 57 and 70, Effingham is a hub for travelers and commerce. The city is home to a number of historical sites, including the 19th-century Effingham County Courthouse and the historic Effingham Railroad Depot. Effingham also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and annual events like the Artisan Fair and Taste of Effingham. With its friendly community, picturesque downtown, and easy access to outdoor recreation, Effingham offers a high quality of life and a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

Benefits

Air Methods is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package created with the diverse needs of our teammates in mind:

  • Health, Dental and Vision
  • Competitive 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Spending Account Benefit Plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Full Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Voluntary Legal
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Employee Assistance and Benefit Concierge Service Programs

Job Summary

Responsible to ensure aircraft and weather conditions are airworthy to transport medical crew and patient to receiving hospital within an assigned operational area. Responsible for compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR), Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), General Operations Manual guidelines (GOM), and thorough knowledge of Air Methods policies and procedures.


Essential Functions and Responsibilities include the following:

  • Operates Air Methods aircraft in a safe and legal manner.
  • Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by sign off of Daily Flight Log. Pilots will perform a complete walk around of the aircraft prior to entering the cockpit for flight and upon completion of each flight.
  • Final authority with regard to operations of aircraft and for the safety of passengers, cargo and equipment.
  • Must be thoroughly familiar with all aircraft and medical systems of backup aircraft utilized at operational area and also ensures that the medical flight team is familiar and comfortable with the medical interior and systems.
  • Responsible for completion of required documentation.
  • Able to conduct detailed flight planning with little notice to exacting standards.
  • Participates regularly in Air Methods meetings, activities, projects, committees and community outreach.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Additional Job Requirements

  • Regular scheduled attendance. (7/7 schedule - 12 hours shifts)

Subject to applicable laws and Air Method’s policies, regular attendance is an essential function of the position.  All employees must follow Air Methods’ employment practices and policies.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities. 

Compensation

Compensation commensurate with flight and EMS experience from $82,900 per year.


Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  In accordance with applicable laws, Air Methods will provide reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden so disabled employees may perform the essential functions of the position.

Pay Scale

Based on flight and EMS experience.

Education & Experience

  • Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school and two  to five years’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Bachelor’s degree preferred

Operation and Safety Requirements:

  • As a member of the Flight Crew, any person employed in this position shall maintain a weight not to exceed 250 pounds and shall be less than seventy (70) years old.

Skills

  • Maintains positive interpersonal relationships with colleagues, EMS representatives, hospitals and the public and strives to maintain a friendly and professional working environment
  • Pilots must have flown in category within the previous 24 months

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Program:

  • 2000 total flight hours with a minimum of 1500 flight hours in category
  • 1000 hours PIC in category
  • 500 hours of rotor wing turbine
  • 200 hours of cross-country flight time, at least 50 hours at night
  • 100 hours unaided night as PIC (50 hours of unaided can be substituted by 100 hours of NVG time, but cannot be reduced below 50 hours of unaided time)
  • 50 hours total actual or hood instrument time in flight and in category (for a RW candidate who is FW rated, 100 hours or greater of FW actual or hood Instrument time can reduce the RW required instrument time to 25 hours)

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Instrument rating (for category and class of aircraft)(ATP rating in category meets this requirement)
  • Fixed wing multiengine rating is required for twin-engine aircraft
  • Commercial single-engine land is required for single-engine aircraft
  • First OR Second Class FAA Medical certificate required.

Internal Bidding Ends: 3/20/2024


USD $82,900.00/Yr.
USD $93,251.00/Yr.

For more information on our industry-leading benefits, please visit our benefits page here. 


Air Methods is an EEO/AA employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
This position is subject to drug and/or alcohol testing per the DOT/FAA requirements (pre-employment, random, reasonable cause/suspicion, post-accident).

This position will be open and posted until filled, with a minimum posting period of three days.


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About Air Methods

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Air Methods is the most responsive and reliable provider of critical care transportation solutions. We partner with our EMS and hospital customers to solve the challenges of patient logistics and save lives. We deliver industry-leading performance in safety, clinical quality, and patient advocacy, committing to zero balance bills. In addition to caring for others, we care for our own teammates: building a high-performing culture where people are passionate about their work and always bring their best. We can't be the industry-leading air medical company without you.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Englewood, CO, US

Year founded

1980