1

Search Rescue Helicopter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HELICOPTER PILOT

Ronkonkoma, NY · On-site +1

$123K - $161K/yr

Learn more about this agency Duties Help As a HELICOPTER PILOT (GS-2181-12), you will pilot a ... search and rescue operations or surveillance and reconnaissance. Competent in conducting or ...

Rotor Wing Pilot

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$54 - $74.83/hr

... Hours Required2001IndustryHAA (Helicopter Air Ambulance)Manages OthersNoExperience ... Prior Search and Rescue Experience* ATP Certificate* Bachelor's degree #J-18808-Ljbffr

Showing results 21-40

Search Rescue Helicopter information

See salary details

$59.5K

$96.4K

$102.5K

How much do search rescue helicopter jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for search rescue helicopter in the United States is $96,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a search and rescue helicopter?

A Search and Rescue Helicopter is a specialized aircraft used to locate and assist people in distress, often in remote or hard-to-reach areas such as mountains, oceans, or disaster zones. These helicopters are equipped with advanced navigation, communication, and rescue equipment, allowing crews to perform missions such as medical evacuations, hoisting stranded individuals, and delivering emergency supplies. The crews are typically highly trained pilots, paramedics, and rescue specialists who can operate in challenging weather and terrain to save lives.

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

To thrive as a Search and Rescue Helicopter Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a commercial helicopter license, and specialized training in search and rescue operations. Proficiency with navigation systems, night vision goggles, hoist operations, and emergency medical protocols is typically required. Strong decision-making, teamwork, and communication skills help pilots effectively coordinate with rescue teams under high-pressure conditions. These abilities are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and successful rescue missions in challenging environments.

What are some common challenges faced by search and rescue helicopter crew members on the job?

Search and rescue helicopter crew members frequently encounter demanding conditions, such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and time-sensitive missions. Adapting quickly to rapidly changing scenarios and maintaining clear communication with the team are critical to ensure successful operations. Crew members must also stay physically and mentally prepared for high-stress situations, as missions can be emotionally taxing and require precision under pressure. Regular training and teamwork help them navigate these challenges and ensure the safety of both the crew and people in need.

What are popular job titles related to Search Rescue Helicopter jobs?

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

Helicopter Pilot with Security Clearance

Davenport, IA • On-site

Department of the Army
National Security • 10K+ employees

$85K - $106K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


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 ( ).

What United States Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


US Army logo

About US Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

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

Social media