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Entry Level Helicopter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Pasadena

Police Trainee

Pasadena, CA

$88K/yr

... Pilot, Helicopter Observer Duty, (Field Training Officer (FTO), Gang Detail, and Special ... OR P.O.S.T. Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) By submitting a T-score for a ...

City of Pasadena, CA

Police Trainee

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$88K/yr

... Pilot, Helicopter Observer Duty, (Field Training Officer (FTO), Gang Detail, and Special ... O.S.T. Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) * By submitting a T-score for a ...

V2X

Service Order Dispatcher

Fort Irwin, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Maintain the Flight Operations Log for all personnel utilizing Ridge Runner helicopter for access ... High School /GED * Entry Level role- One year experience as a receptionist or equivalent position ...

V2X

$18 - $24.25/hr

Maintain the Flight Operations Log for all personnel utilizing Ridge Runner helicopter for access ... High School /GED * Entry Level role- One year experience as a receptionist or equivalent position ...

All JobsHelicopter JobsEntry Level Helicopter JobsEntry Level Helicopter Jobs in California

Entry Level Helicopter information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$74.7K

$109.1K

How much do entry level helicopter jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level helicopter in California is $74,741.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,400.00 and $104,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level helicopter jobs?

Entry-level helicopter jobs are positions for new pilots or aviation professionals who have recently obtained the necessary certifications, such as a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) with a helicopter rating. These jobs often include roles like flight instructor, tour pilot, utility pilot, or supporting roles in aerial photography, surveying, or agricultural spraying. Entry-level positions provide essential flight hours and hands-on experience needed to advance in the helicopter aviation industry. Applicants typically need to meet minimum flight hour requirements and may need to relocate based on job availability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level helicopter pilot?

To thrive as an Entry Level Helicopter Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, solid knowledge of aviation regulations, and strong flight training from an accredited school. Proficiency with navigation systems, radio communication equipment, and flight planning software is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and effective communication skills help pilots stand out. These skills ensure safe, efficient flight operations and successful teamwork in dynamic aviation environments.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level helicopter pilots during their first year on the job?

Entry-level helicopter pilots often face challenges such as adapting to varied weather conditions, building confidence with complex maneuvers, and managing workload during busy operational periods. They may also need to become proficient in communicating with air traffic control and working as part of a larger flight operations team. Gaining experience through routine flights, ongoing training, and mentorship helps new pilots overcome these challenges and advance in their careers.

What is the difference between Entry Level Helicopter vs Flight Instructor?

AspectEntry Level HelicopterFlight Instructor
Required CertificationsPrivate Pilot License (PPL), HelicopterCertified Flight Instructor (CFI), Helicopter
Work EnvironmentHelicopter operation, training, aerial toursFlight training, student instruction, safety oversight
Employer & Industry UsageHelicopter operators, charter companies, tourismFlight schools, training organizations

Entry Level Helicopter roles typically involve operating helicopters in various settings such as tours or aerial work, requiring a private pilot license. Flight Instructors, on the other hand, focus on training new pilots, holding additional certification. Both roles share similar certifications but differ in daily responsibilities and work environments, with instructors primarily working in training settings and entry-level pilots in operational roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Helicopter jobs in California?

The most popular types of Helicopter jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Helicopter jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Helicopter job openings:

Entry Level Helicopter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Helicopter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,741 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Electrical Systems and Equipment Engineer

Robinson Helicopter Company, Inc.

Torrance, CA • On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Founded in 1973, Robinson Helicopter Company Inc., (RHC), is the preeminent manufacturer of civil rotorcraft located in Torrance, California. Robinson has built its reputation on a 50-year history of commitment to providing affordable and quality aircraft with a wide range of applications. We have a strong engineering team; almost 85% of our manufacturing processes, including production of parts and assembly, are done in our Torrance location. We also offer comprehensive overhaul services while rapidly responding to customers' needs; to keep their aircraft flying. Our commitment to our vision of keeping our customers flying has earned RHC a variety of recognition from our customers.
Robinson is an engineering focused organization that provides challenging and exciting opportunities to contribute to the future of vertical flight.
The Electrical Systems and Equipment Engineer is a member of the engineering team who is responsible for the design, validation, and certification of electrical systems, equipment, and avionics for rotorcraft applications whose functions include electrical engineering, systems engineering, HIRF and Lightning, and software / electronic hardware development.
Responsibilities
  • Design electrical systems and equipment for rotorcraft applications
  • Create wiring diagrams, specifications, processes, and other design data
  • Design, develop, integrate, and verify electrical systems, equipment, and avionics assemblies through the product development cycle
  • Conduct preliminary analysis of electrical loads to inform design decisions
  • Create detail, assembly, and installation design definitions using CAD software
  • Oversee the development and manufacturing of prototype articles
  • Develop requirements, specifications, and processes
  • Identify, plan, and conduct tests for components, assemblies and aircraft in the laboratory, ground, and flight test environment as necessary to include test planning, conformity, instrumentation, test conduct, data analysis, and issue resolution
  • Interface with other engineers to determine the operating environment for design elements and resolve issues found during development and certification
  • Validate that designs meet customer expectations, design objectives, and the requirements of 14 CFR Part 27
  • Interface with suppliers to identify solutions to design problems, establish requirements, and ensure requirements are satisfied
  • Report project status, schedules, and risks
  • Develop processes and tools to improve the effectiveness, quality, and efficiency of the work

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related engineering field or equivalent work experience
  • Experience with computer aided design and modeling with a focus on design for manufacturing
  • Must be a proven self-starter requiring minimal supervision, with strong problem-solving skills
  • Excellent academic record
  • Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Team-oriented, possess a positive attitude, and work well with others

Desired Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in a related engineering field.
  • Experience with engineering design, fabrication, integration, development, and testing for rotorcraft applications

What can a career at RHC offer you?
We offer our teams members opportunities for professional development, training, and learning. Our performance management system is structured to provide opportunities for career focused development. Our career development is supported with a great tuition reimbursement program.
Compensation & Benefits:
Robinson Helicopter Company offers salary increases twice a year. We offer comprehensive group health plans including medical EPO, PPO and High Deductible Health Plans with Health Savings Account, dental, vision and other supplemental plans which begin on the day you begin employment with RHC. Our Supplemental Plans include Voluntary Life Insurance, and Pet Insurance. RHC offers a competitive 401k Plan.
If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about quality assurance in manufacturing, and your career goals include working with a dynamic team with exciting products such as helicopters, why not apply; give yourself a chance to speak with our team. Robinson Helicopter Company is known in the industry for its exceptional efficiency in the production and assembly of helicopters. We encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity!
Robinson Helicopter Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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