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Helicopter Rescue Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Key Responsibilities Operate as enlisted aircrew during flight operations; perform helicopter sea ... Rescue Swimmer preparatory and Rescue Swimmer School for those in that specialty; Class A School in ...

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Helicopter Rescue information

See Iowa salary details

$55.9K

$90.5K

$96.3K

How much do helicopter rescue jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for helicopter rescue in Iowa is $90,542.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,500.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a helicopter rescue?

As a helicopter rescue pilot, your job is to help provide emergency services in response to sudden needs. In this role, you may keep your helicopter ready to head out on a flight, coordinate with emergency rescuers, and perform various airborne tasks as needed. This job particularly focuses on search and rescue operations, such as finding and recovering people who are lost in the wilderness. Pilots do not provide medical care for rescued passengers, but other personnel onboard might. Related jobs include flight crew, paramedic, or maintenance positions. Helicopter rescue jobs should not be confused with air ambulance jobs. While you may deliver people to hospitals, this job does not always involve rescuing sick or injured passengers and may involve flying into dangerous situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a helicopter rescue specialist?

To thrive as a Helicopter Rescue Specialist, you need advanced knowledge of search and rescue operations, aviation safety, and emergency medical response, typically supported by certifications such as EMT or paramedic and specialized rescue training. Familiarity with navigation systems, radio communication tools, winching equipment, and survival gear is essential. Exceptional decision-making skills, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are critical soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, efficient rescues and optimal outcomes in challenging and often life-threatening environments.

What are some common challenges faced by helicopter rescue professionals during emergency missions?

Helicopter rescue professionals often encounter rapidly changing weather conditions, challenging terrain, and the need to make quick, critical decisions under pressure. Working as part of a tightly coordinated team, they must communicate effectively with pilots, medical staff, and ground teams to ensure a successful rescue. Physical and mental stamina are crucial, as missions can be unpredictable and require long hours. Continuous training and adaptability help professionals overcome these challenges and maintain safety for both the rescue team and those being assisted.

What is the difference between Helicopter Rescue vs Search and Rescue Technician?

AspectHelicopter RescueSearch and Rescue Technician
CertificationsFAA helicopter pilot license, rescue trainingFirst aid, CPR, rescue operations training
Work EnvironmentHelicopter, outdoor, remote locationsGround-based, varied terrains
Employer & IndustryRescue agencies, emergency servicesFire departments, rescue teams

Helicopter Rescue involves operating helicopters to perform aerial rescues, often requiring pilot licenses and specialized rescue training. Search and Rescue Technicians typically work on the ground, conducting search operations and providing emergency aid. While both roles focus on saving lives, Helicopter Rescue emphasizes aerial operations, whereas Search and Rescue Technicians are ground-based responders.

How much do helicopter rescue personnel make?

Helicopter rescue personnel, such as rescue pilots and crew members, typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced certifications and specialized skills can lead to higher salaries, especially in emergency response or military settings.

What qualifications do you need to work on helicopter rescues?

To work in helicopter rescue, candidates typically need emergency medical training such as EMT or paramedic certification, along with specialized rescue training. Pilots require a commercial helicopter pilot license, and rescue personnel often need physical fitness, strong teamwork skills, and experience in high-stress environments.

What are popular job titles related to Helicopter Rescue jobs in Iowa?

For Helicopter Rescue jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Helicopter Rescue jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Helicopter Rescue jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Helicopter Rescue job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,542 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Helicopter Pilot with Security Clearance

Department of the Army

Davenport, IA • On-site

$85K - $106K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Duties As a Helicopter Pilot, GS-2181-12 your duties are below. * 1. Pilots a variety of on one or more of the following helicopters: Attack Helicopter (AH-64); Cargo Helicopter (CH-47); Utility Helicopter (UH-60 series), (LUH-72 series) and others when assigned. Routinely operates with short takeoffs and landing capability, in all types of weather, day, and night over a variety of terrains and open bodies of water. Flights are made using landing facilities ranging from modern, improved airport with paved runways and navigational aids to unimproved strips of remote, isolated villages. This position will be required to make reconnaissance and observation flights. Makes test flights and checks all systems in connection with maintenance actions and takes necessary action to correct malfunctions. Participates in all-weather search and rescue operations as required utilizing a thorough knowledge of the terrain features of the geographical area. Conducts flight checks following repairs, maintenance, or installation of approved aircraft system modifications. Responsible for transportation of cargo and transporting passengers, among a variety of familiar destinations (50%) * Performs maintenance operation checks (MOCs) and general test flights of aircraft to ensure airworthiness upon completion of extensive disassembly for maintenance, repair or replacement of components or aircraft systems. Performs general test flights of aircraft upon completion of extensive disassembly, reassembly, and maintenance, repair, or replacement of parts where tests cannot determine the safe and or proper functioning of aircraft components or systems; and ensures the airworthiness component or aircraft systems. Performs acceptance test flights of new aircraft when required. (40%) * Serves as a member of a board pertaining to aviation accidents, flight evaluation, collateral investigations, standardization, and federal recognition. (10%) * Performs other duties as assigned. D2929000 Requirements Conditions of employment NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED: This is an excepted position that requires military membership in a compatible military assignment in the Iowa Army National Guard. Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform. Acceptance of this excepted position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment. APPLICATION MATERIALS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 09/16/2026 . FAILURE TO PROVIDE COMPLETE INFORMATION MAY RESULT IN YOUR NOT RECEIVING CONSIDERATION FOR THIS POSITION. Please refer to the Qualifications and Evaluations Section of this Announcement to understand the qualification requirements, and the How to Apply Section for detailed instruction on applying. TRIAL PERIOD REQUIREMENT: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 2-year trial period or 1-year (Veterans Preference Eligibles Only) during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: * Your performance and conduct. * The needs and interests of the agency. * Whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and * Whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENT: Employment is subject to attaining and maintaining a clearance as required by this position. If the selectee does not possess the applicable security clearance when hired, application must be made within 30 days of the start date. Failure to make application for the required security clearance will result in termination of employment. Failure to complete prescribed courses may be cause for reassignment or termination of FTS. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools. Military Rank Requirements: WARRANT OFFICERS (CW4 and Below) Qualifications In describing your experience, please be clear and specific. We will not make assumptions regarding your experience. Applicants who do not fully address the minimum/specialized experience needed for the position in their resume will not be referred for consideration. Your resume must contain your own words. Resumes that are verbatim, from this announcement, any PD's, or any other applicants will not be considered. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 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. Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: GS-2181-12: Must have experience in the following: * Must have at least two years specialized competencies in operating a specific main-frame military aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation * 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. * 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. * 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 Education Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs or must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools. Must have a high school diploma or general education development (GED) diploma. An undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university is optimum. To receive credit for education, you must provide college transcripts to support your educational claims. Additional information ENLISTMENT CASH BONUSES: Acceptance of a technician position may affect any bonus and/or educational assistance that may be applicable. Please contact your Education Office prior to accepting a position with the Iowa Army National Guard. Participation in direct deposit is mandatory. If you are a male applicant born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you are not eligible for appointment in this agency ( ).

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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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