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Life Flight Pilot Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Chief Pilot

Greenwood Village, CO · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Monitor work life balance with Pilot flight and duty times. * Meeting company objectives and creating a positive work environment. * Identify, select and train Company Instructors and Check Airman.

Chief Pilot

Greenwood Village, CO · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Monitor work life balance with Pilot flight and duty times. * Meeting company objectives and creating a positive work environment. * Identify, select and train Company Instructors and Check Airman.

Chief Pilot

Greenwood Village, CO · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Monitor work life balance with Pilot flight and duty times. * Meeting company objectives and creating a positive work environment. * Identify, select and train Company Instructors and Check Airman.

Chief Pilot

Greenwood Village, CO · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Monitor work life balance with Pilot flight and duty times. * Meeting company objectives and creating a positive work environment. * Identify, select and train Company Instructors and Check Airman.

Chief Pilot

Greenwood Village, CO · On-site

$130 - $190/hr

The Chief Pilot establishes and enforces flight standards, maintains operational discipline across ... Monitorwork life balance withPilotflight and duty times. * Meeting companyobjectivesand creating a ...

Must meet Flight for Life Colorado minimums** 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 ...

New

Helicopter Pilot

Rifle, CO · On-site

$82K - $86K/yr

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

Helicopter Pilot

Thornton, CO · On-site

$82.90 - $93.25/hr

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

Helicopter Pilot

Holyoke, CO · On-site

$82.90 - $93.25/hr

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

Fixed Wing Pilot

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$91.19 - $102.58/hr

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

Helicopter Pilot

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Flight for Life AS350 (VFR) Salary Range: ($82,900 to $93,251) + Experience Stipend: Up to $12,000 ... As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us ...

Helicopter Pilot

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$83 - $93/hr

Must meet Flight for Life Colorado minimums** 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 ...

New

Helicopter Pilot

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Must meet Flight for Life Colorado minimums** 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 ...

New

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

Helicopter Pilot

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Must meet Flight for Life Colorado minimums** 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 ...

New

Flight for Life AS350 (VFR) Salary Range: ($82,900 to $93,251) + Experience Stipend: Up to $12,000 ... As the leader in the air medical industry, Air Methods seeks exceptional pilots to partner with us ...

New

Helicopter Pilot

Holyoke, CO · On-site

$82K - $93K/yr

Full Company-Paid Life Insurance * AD&D Insurance * Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance ... Completes pre-flight before every flight verifying the aircraft is in an airworthy condition by ...

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Showing results 1-20

Life Flight Pilot information

See Colorado salary details

$50.5K

$91.6K

$139.9K

How much do life flight pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for life flight pilot in Colorado is $91,634.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,700.00 and $107,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a life flight pilot?

Life Flight Pilots are specially trained helicopter or airplane pilots who transport critically ill or injured patients to medical facilities as quickly and safely as possible. They work as part of an air medical team and must have advanced flying skills, as well as the ability to operate under pressure in emergency situations. Life Flight Pilots often collaborate closely with paramedics, nurses, and doctors during patient transport. Their role is vital in saving lives, especially in cases where ground transportation would take too long or is inaccessible.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a life flight pilot?

To thrive as a Life Flight Pilot, you need an FAA commercial or ATP pilot license, extensive flight hours (often 2,000+), and specialized training in helicopter or fixed-wing aeromedical operations. Familiarity with advanced avionics, GPS navigation systems, and night vision equipment is typically required, along with certifications such as Instrument Rating and potentially NVG (Night Vision Goggle) endorsement. Excellent situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and strong communication skills are crucial for effectively handling emergencies and coordinating with medical teams. These competencies ensure the safe, timely, and efficient transportation of critically ill or injured patients in high-stakes situations.

What are some common challenges life flight pilots face during emergency medical missions?

Life Flight Pilots often encounter challenging flight conditions, such as bad weather, night-time operations, and landing in unfamiliar or restricted areas. They must remain calm under pressure while coordinating closely with medical crews and air traffic control to ensure patient and crew safety. Additionally, responding to urgent calls requires adaptability and quick decision-making, as every mission can differ greatly in terms of location, patient needs, and logistical constraints.

What is the difference between Life Flight Pilot vs Helicopter Pilot?

AspectLife Flight PilotHelicopter Pilot
CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Medical Certificate, sometimes additional rotorcraft ratingsCommercial Pilot License, Medical Certificate, rotorcraft ratings
Work EnvironmentEmergency medical flights, hospitals, accident scenesVaried, including transportation, construction, tourism, and emergency services
Employer & IndustryAir ambulance services, hospitals, emergency response agenciesAirlines, private companies, government agencies, emergency services

While both roles require similar certifications and involve flying helicopters, Life Flight Pilots specifically operate in emergency medical and rescue settings, often under urgent conditions. Helicopter Pilots have a broader range of industries and environments, including commercial and private operations. The key difference lies in the specialized medical emergency focus of Life Flight Pilots versus the diverse applications of Helicopter Pilots.

How hard is it to be a life flight pilot?

Becoming a life flight pilot requires extensive training, including obtaining a commercial pilot license, flight hours, and specialized certifications such as instrument and multi-engine ratings. The job demands high levels of skill, quick decision-making, and the ability to operate in challenging environments, often under stressful conditions. It typically involves years of experience in aviation before qualifying for this role.

How much do life flight pilots make?

Life flight pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Salaries can be higher for pilots with advanced training, such as instrument or commercial ratings, and those working in high-demand regions or for specialized medical transport services.

How to get a job as a Life Flight Pilot?

To become a Life Flight Pilot, candidates typically need a commercial pilot license with rotorcraft or fixed-wing ratings, extensive flight hours, and experience in emergency or medical transport operations. Additional certifications such as an instrument rating and specialized training in aeromedical services are often required, along with strong communication and decision-making skills. Employers also look for experience in high-pressure environments and a clean flying record.

What are popular job titles related to Life Flight Pilot jobs in Colorado?

For Life Flight Pilot jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Life Flight Pilot jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Life Flight Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Life Flight Pilot job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $91,634 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Chief Pilot

Air Methods

Greenwood Village, CO • On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Air Methods rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

The Chief Pilot is responsible for the overall leadership, operational readiness, and regulatory compliance of the pilot workforce. This includes oversight of pilot hiring, training, scheduling, performance management, and labor relations, including direct engagement with the pilot union. The role ensures adherence to all FAA regulations and company policies, while proactively identifying and resolving compliance risks.

The Chief Pilot establishes and enforces flight standards, maintains operational discipline across all bases, and ensures consistency in pilot performance and safety practices. This position owns the FAA-approved training program, ensuring it remains current, effective, and compliant, along with all required flight manuals and publications.

In addition to maintaining qualification as Pilot in Command (PIC) in at least one aircraft within the certificate holder’s operation, the Chief Pilot represents the organization in industry groups and FAA safety forums, contributing to broader aviation safety initiatives and staying ahead of regulatory and operational changes.

At Air Methods, this role directly supports a mission-critical operation focused on saving lives through rapid, high-quality air medical transport. The Chief Pilot operates within one of the largest and most complex air medical programs in the country, with the ability to influence safety, standardization, and pilot development at scale. This position offers the opportunity to shape operations, drive meaningful impact, and lead within an organization where aviation performance directly affects patient outcomes.
Salary Range: $150k-$190K+ DOE, plus STIP!
This position will require relocation to Denver.


  • Manage all Flight Operations staff and ensure safety of Flight Operations. 
  • Ensure regulatory compliance with all flight operations and pilot training. Effective flight development and standardization of training. 
  • Team development and mentorship. 
  • Monitor work life balance with Pilot flight and duty times. 
  • Meeting company objectives and creating a positive work environment. 
  • Identify, select and train Company Instructors and Check Airman. 
  • Responsible for ascertaining and assuring that pilots conduct all flights, in accordance with the provisions of the GOM and current CFRs. 
  • Supervises scheduling of training and check ride process. 
  • Administrative responsibilities for the pilot staff to include recruitment, training, reviews, scheduling, time off requests, and compensation adjustments. 
  • Dissemination of all pertinent safety, flight, and company information in a timely manner. 
  • Actively participates in the company’s Safety Management System (SMS) and is familiar with the SMS policies, processes, and procedures.   
  • Ensure aircraft procedures are standardized throughout the fleet. 
  • Responsible for ensuring the maintenance of proficiency records, pilot files, duty time records, reports, and correspondence pertaining to flight operations activities in accordance with the CFRs. 
  • Responsible for the development of policies for Air Methods flight instructors, ground instructors, and check pilots.

In the absence of the Director of Operations, the Chief Pilot shall assume the Director of Operations duties and authorities including but are not limited to:

  • Coordinate with the FAA concerning company training and flight operations.Communicate and work effectively with all company departments and managers.
  • Respond to pilot complaints, safety concerns, Pilot Supervisor issues, and work with all departments with regards to flight safety. 
  • Conduct investigations and provide adequate oversight of the Part 135 air carrier certificate.

Supervisory Responsibilities 

Directly supervises employees in the Flight Operations department.  Carries out Supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.  Responsibilities include interviewing, selecting, hiring, and training employees, planning, assigning and directing work; appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees, addressing complaints and resolving problems.  For Exempt Managers:  Managers that carry out these responsibilities for two or more employees will have significant input in hiring and termination decisions. 


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. 

Education & Experience 

  • Bachelor’s degree (BS/BA) from four-year college or university and five to eight years’ related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience 
  • Minimum of 2,500 flight hours 
  • Minimum of 3 years’ experience, within the past 6 years, as pilot in command of an aircraft operated under part 121 or part 135 of the CFRs; or, In the case of a person with previous experience as a Chief Pilot, have at least 3 years’ experience as pilot in command of an aircraft operated under part 121 or part 135. 

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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